The Conniption Espresso Martini is more than just an elegant nightcap — it’s a celebration of balance.
Our Conniption American Dry Gin lends a crisp botanical foundation with notes of juniper, coriander, cardamom, and orange peel, lifted by delicate hints of cucumber and honeysuckle. Those bright, floral undertones meet the bold, roasted richness of Damn Fine Coffee Liqueur, creating a harmony that’s both lively and indulgent.
The vanilla demerara syrup adds a whisper of sweetness, and the silky coffee foam topper transforms the experience into something that feels truly luxurious. Whether enjoyed after dinner, during a late-night celebration, or as a brunch pick-me-up, this cocktail embodies everything we love about modern craft — precision, connection, and a touch of unexpected energy.
Raise your glass, shake up some spirit, and toast to the moments that keep you inspired.
Few cocktails have the instant allure of the Espresso Martini. Born in the 1980s at London’s Soho Brasserie, legend has it a famous model asked bartender Dick Bradsell for something that would “wake me up and then f*** me up.” What he created was the perfect paradox... elegant yet electric, smooth yet stimulating.
Over the decades, the Espresso Martini evolved from late-night curiosity to modern essential. Its balance of caffeine, sweetness, and spirit made it the signature of sophisticated indulgence — a cocktail that bridges the line between after-dinner dessert and evening revival.
At Durham Distillery, we love a cocktail that celebrates precision and energy in equal measure. So, we crafted a version that highlights the artistry of both coffee and gin, merging the deep richness of our Damn Fine Coffee Liqueur with the crisp, vapor-distilled elegance of Conniption American Dry Gin. The result? A distinctly Conniption take on a contemporary classic.
Chill the Glass: Place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill.
Shake the Ingredients: Add Conniption Gin, Damn Fine Coffee Liqueur, vanilla demerara syrup, and espresso into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for 20–30 seconds to create a rich, creamy texture.
Strain and Serve: Discard the ice from the glass and double strain the cocktail into the chilled glass to ensure a smooth finish.
Add the Coffee Foam: Top with a layer of coffee foam for a velvety finish.
Garnish: Add three coffee beans on top for a classic Espresso Martini presentation.
Recipe Note
Why We Love It
The Conniption Espresso Martini is more than just an elegant nightcap — it’s a celebration of balance.
Our Conniption American Dry Gin lends a crisp botanical foundation with notes of juniper, coriander, cardamom, and orange peel, lifted by delicate hints of cucumber and honeysuckle. Those bright, floral undertones meet the bold, roasted richness of Damn Fine Coffee Liqueur, creating a harmony that’s both lively and indulgent.
The vanilla demerara syrup adds a whisper of sweetness, and the silky coffee foam topper transforms the experience into something that feels truly luxurious. Whether enjoyed after dinner, during a late-night celebration, or as a brunch pick-me-up, this cocktail embodies everything we love about modern craft — precision, connection, and a touch of unexpected energy.
Raise your glass, shake up some spirit, and toast to the moments that keep you inspired.
