The Tom Collins Is A Springtime Must Try

The Tom Collins is a refreshing and classic cocktail, beloved for its bubbly mix of gin, lemon, sugar, and soda. The name gained wide recognition in the late 1800s due to a long forgotten joke, however, the drink's roots likely go back further, evolving from earlier gin punches. Simple and satisfying, the cocktail endures to the present day, offering a crisp and invigorating experience.

Tom Collins Ingredients

• 2 oz Gin
• 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• 3/4 oz Simple Syrup
• Soda Water
• Lemon wheel (for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry (for garnish, optional)

How to Make a Tom Collins

1. Combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake well until chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled highball glass filled with ice.
4. Top with soda water.
5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry, if desired.

For the best Tom Collins, use a high-quality gin with a botanical character. Fresh lemon juice is key to this cocktail's bright flavor. Adjust the simple syrup to your taste for sweetness. The soda water adds the signature fizz, so don't skimp on it. This cocktail is perfect for any occasion that calls for a refreshing and invigorating drink.

Tom Collins Riff

For a "John Collins," substitute bourbon for gin. For a "Kentucky Collins," use bourbon and top with ginger ale instead of soda water.