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Durham Distillery credits new bill for cocktail bar concept

A new cocktail bar will open under Durham Distillery next year, its co-owners announced this week.

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Durham Distillery opening new cocktail bar
By
Jessica Patrick
, WRAL digital journalist
DURHAM, N.C. — A new cocktail bar will open underneath Durham Distillery next year, its co-owners announced this week.

Corpse Reviver, slated to open in early 2020, will be located on the ground floor underneath the downtown distillery at 711 Washington Street. The new bar is named after a classic gin cocktail along with the space's former status as a coffin shop.

Co-owners Melissa and Lee Katrincic said the July 16 passage of Senate Bill 290, which benefits North Carolina distilleries by easing regulations to sell their own products on-site and market them at ABC stores, inspired Corpse Revival.

Previous laws restricted Durham Distillery from operating a cocktail bar and from serving their canned cocktails during weekly Friday and Saturday distillery tours, according to the couple.

The bill would allow liquor tastings at local ABC stores with a focus on creating opportunities for in-state distillers. An earlier annual limit on how many bottles distilleries can sell directly to people who tour their operations would be removed.

"Approval of this bill changes everything and enables us to celebrate our brand in the fullest and most experiential way,” said Melissa Katrincic in a release.

Starting in September, Durham Distillery will provide samples of their canned cocktails, including the new Conniption Gin Rosé Spritz, during tours. In 2020, when the bar opens, guests will be able to enjoy a cocktail on-site.

The new space will be an art deco style complete with martini carts.

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