Tom Collins

The Tom Collins is a timeless highball cocktail that’s been refreshing drinkers for well over a century. Made with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water, it’s a bright and fizzy blend that’s perfect for warm afternoons or as a crisp palate cleanser before dinner. Its balance of citrus tang, gentle sweetness, and botanical gin notes makes it approachable for both seasoned cocktail fans and newcomers. Light and effervescent, the Tom Collins is as versatile as it is classic, fitting effortlessly into casual backyard gatherings or polished cocktail hours.

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Tasting Notes

The Tom Collins offers a bright and refreshing balance of botanicals, citrus, and gentle sweetness. The gin provides a clean, herbal base, while the fresh lemon juice adds crisp acidity. Simple syrup rounds out the tartness with a smooth sweetness that doesn’t overpower. The soda water lengthens the drink, giving it a light fizz and a thirst-quenching quality. Served over ice in a tall glass, it’s cool, crisp, and uplifting, with every sip delivering a harmonious mix of lemon, subtle gin botanicals, and sparkling refreshment. The garnish of lemon slice and cherry adds a cheerful final touch.

Equipment and Glassware

To make a Tom Collins, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing the base ingredients and ice to chill the drink before serving. A jigger ensures precise measurements for consistency in flavor balance. A Hawthorne strainer helps keep the poured drink clear of excess ice from the shaker. This cocktail is traditionally served in a Collins glass a tall, narrow glass designed for iced, carbonated drinks. A long bar spoon is useful for gently mixing in the soda water without losing carbonation. A garnish pick can hold the lemon slice and cherry neatly on top for presentation.

Ingredients

• 2 oz. of gin
• 1 oz. lemon juice
• 1/2 oz. simple syrup
• Soda water to top it off
• A lemon slice and a cherry for garnish

Instructions

• Fill your shaker with ice.
• Pour in the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
• Shake it up until it’s well mixed and chilled.
• Strain it into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
• Top it off with soda water.
• Garnish with a lemon slice and a cherry.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor
• Choose a gin with balanced botanicals to avoid overpowering the citrus
• Chill the glass beforehand for longer-lasting refreshment
• Top with soda water just before serving to keep the fizz lively
• Measure ingredients precisely for consistency
• Use clear, fresh ice to avoid altering flavor
• Gently stir after adding soda water to keep carbonation intact
• Try flavored soda water for a subtle twist
• Avoid over-shaking to prevent excess dilution
• Garnish just before serving for the freshest lookink.

When to Serve

The Tom Collins is an ideal cocktail for warm-weather gatherings, outdoor brunches, and relaxed social occasions. Its refreshing nature and light carbonation make it perfect for afternoon sipping or as a pre-dinner drink. Because it’s not overly sweet or heavy, it pairs well with a variety of appetizers, grilled dishes, or fresh salads. It’s also a reliable crowd-pleaser for parties where guests appreciate a balanced, citrus-forward cocktail. While it shines in summer, its crisp and clean flavor profile makes it an easy choice year-round for those who want a drink that’s both flavorful and refreshing.

Similar Cocktails

• Gin Fizz
• Lemon Drop
• Mojito
• Whiskey Sour
• Vodka Soda