The Melon Ball Collins is a fruity twist on the classic Tom Collins, turning a timeless favorite into a refreshing and colorful cocktail. This version combines vodka with the sweet flavor of melon liqueur, balanced by the bright tang of fresh lemon juice and topped with soda water for a fizzy finish. Light, crisp, and easy to sip, the Melon Ball Collins is both playful and refreshing, making it a perfect choice for warm days or lively gatherings. Served over ice with melon balls or citrus slices as garnish, it looks as good as it tastes and always delights a crowd.

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Tasting Notes

The Melon Ball Collins is refreshing and lightly sweet with a playful twist. The gin brings botanical notes that pair well with the tartness of fresh lemon juice. Simple syrup softens the acidity without making the drink heavy. As the melon balls slowly melt, they release subtle fruit flavor that complements the crisp character of the cocktail. Each sip is balanced, light, and clean ideal for warm-weather sipping. The combination of citrus, chilled soda, and mellow fruit keeps the drink approachable and easy to enjoy, especially when served ice cold with those unique, functional frozen melon garnishes.

Equipment and Glassware

To make a Melon Ball Collins, you’ll need a melon baller or small cookie scoop to shape the fruit into round, bite-sized pieces. A plate or baking tray and some parchment paper are also helpful for freezing the melon balls evenly. Use a citrus juicer for fresh lemon juice, and a jigger for precise measurement. A long bar spoon works well for mixing the drink directly in the glass. A Collins glass is ideal for presentation and volume, giving the melon balls room to float while keeping the tall, narrow look that defines this classic sparkling drink style.

Ingredients

2 oz gin
0.5 oz simple syrup
1 oz lemon juice
Club soda, to top
Melon ball ice cubes

Instructions

Use a melon baller to cut fresh melon into balls. Spread them out on a plate and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
Add the frozen melon balls to a Collins glass.
Pour in the gin, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
Top with club soda.
Stir gently to combine.

Pro Tips

Use ripe cantaloupe or honeydew for more flavor and color in the melon balls.
Freeze melon balls in a single layer on parchment for easy removal.
Try flavored soda water (like lemon or cucumber) for a twist.
Choose a gin with strong citrus or floral notes to match the melon.
Pre-chill your Collins glass for better temperature control.
Don’t over-stir after adding soda light mixing preserves the bubbles.
Add a sprig of mint for extra aroma without changing the flavor.
If serving to a crowd, prep melon balls ahead and store in a freezer bag.

When to Serve

The Melon Ball Collins is ideal for warm days, brunches, or casual gatherings where a chilled, fizzy drink fits the mood. Its light profile and fun presentation make it great for summer parties, afternoon sipping, or backyard hangouts. The melon ice cubes turn it into a conversation piece while keeping things easy to drink. It works well as a pre-dinner refresher or a poolside cooler. Since it’s simple to build and visually appealing, it’s also a smart choice for entertaining when you want something different but low-effort.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Gin
- Hendrick’s: Floral and cucumber notes work well with melon
- Tanqueray No. Ten: Bright citrus and balanced botanicals
- Bombay Sapphire East: Slightly spiced and aromatic
Club Soda
- Topo Chico: Great carbonation and clean taste
- Fever-Tree Soda Water: Smooth and mineral-forward
- Q Club Soda: Strong bubbles, good mixer quality

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