Pomegranate Collins

As the days shorten and gatherings fill my calendar, I want drinks that are bright yet suitable for the season. The Pomegranate Collins is just that, crisp, a little tart, and refreshing, even on a cool evening. Its ruby color stands out, but the balanced flavors keep you coming back.

I first made this drink on a quiet afternoon while prepping for friends before dinner. I wanted something simple, not too sweet, and easy to enjoy. Gin was the right choice, lemon added brightness, and pomegranate juice brought depth without heaviness. After adding soda and stirring, I knew it was a winner. Everyone wanted to know what it was, and the glasses emptied fast.

The Pomegranate Collins is highly flexible. It suits casual hangouts, small celebrations, or a quiet night in. It looks great, tastes clean, and is easy to make. If you enjoy fresh drinks with depth, this one belongs in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This

This cocktail keeps things easy for you while still feeling thoughtful for your guests, making entertaining less stressful and more enjoyable.

• It’s light and refreshing, not heavy or syrupy.
• The flavors strike a nice balance between tart and gently sweet.
• You can make this quickly with basic bar ingredients you likely already have, saving you a trip to the store and letting you enjoy more time with friends.
• The color makes it stand out without extra garnish.
• It works well for daytime or evening plans.
• You can adjust the sweetness without changing the structure.

All these qualities make the Pomegranate Collins a drink you’ll enjoy serving again and again, giving you confidence in pleasing your guests or simply enjoying it yourself.

Ingredients

Each ingredient has a clear purpose. The amounts keep the drink balanced from start to finish.

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz lemon juice
• 1 oz pomegranate juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Club soda
• Pomegranate seeds for garnish
• Lemon wheel, for garnish

Gin provides a crisp base. Lemon keeps the drink lively. Pomegranate adds color and gentle tartness. Simple syrup softens flavors without too much sweetness. Club soda lightens the drink and gives it classic Collins style.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Your choice of gin shapes the drink, but there’s room to adjust.

• A London dry gin works well for a clean, classic profile.
• Beefeater or Tanqueray both hold up nicely against citrus.
• A softer botanical gin adds a lighter finish if you prefer less bite.
• Vodka can replace gin for a milder version.
• If pomegranate juice is very tart, add a touch more simple syrup.

These swaps keep the Pomegranate Collins flexible but true to its core.

Equipment and Glassware

This drink needs little equipment, making it easy to mix at home.

• Collins Glass
• Shaker
• Strainer
• Measuring Jigger
• Bar Spoon

A Collins glass provides room for ice and soda and showcases the color. Use fresh ice to keep it cold longer. No shaker? A jar with a tight lid works.

Chill the glass while you shake the drink. This small step helps the final pour stay refreshing.

How to Make It

The method is simple and keeps the drink bright.

1. Fill a Collins glass with ice to keep it chilled.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, pomegranate juice, and simple syrup to a shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice.
4. Shake well for about 15 seconds until fully chilled.
5. Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
6. Top with club soda until the glass is filled.
7. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a lemon wheel.
8. Stir gently and serve right away.

After making it once, you can easily adjust the Pomegranate Collins to your taste or occasion.

Pro Tips

Small details make a noticeable difference.

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Taste your pomegranate juice before mixing since brands vary.
• Shake long enough to chill, but don’t overdo it.
• Add soda last to keep the drink lively.
• Stir gently so you don’t lose fizz.
• Chill your glass ahead of time.
• Adjust syrup in small amounts to avoid over-sweetening.

These tips keep each glass balanced and fresh.

Variations

If you want to switch things up, try these ideas.

• Add a splash of cranberry juice for extra tartness.
• Use rosemary simple syrup for a subtle herbal note.
• Swap club soda for sparkling mineral water.
• Add a few fresh pomegranate seeds into the shaker for color.
• Use blood orange juice instead of lemon for a softer citrus feel.

Each variation preserves the Pomegranate Collins’ structure while offering a new twist.

When to Serve and Pairings

This drink fits moments that feel social but relaxed.

Serve it for:

• Brunch with friends
• Early evening get-togethers
• Small parties where lighter drinks work best

It pairs well with:

• Olives and marinated vegetables
• Simple cheese boards
• Roasted nuts or salted snacks
• Grilled chicken or fish
• Fresh salads with citrus or vinaigrette

It’s a solid pick when you want something refreshing that still feels put together without stealing the spotlight from the food.

Storage and Serving Notes

This cocktail is best served fresh. You can mix the gin, lemon juice, pomegranate juice, and simple syrup ahead of time and keep it chilled. Add ice and soda only when ready to serve. Avoid batching with soda, since it will lose its fizz.

Store leftover mix in the fridge up to one day, but flavor is best the same day.

FAQs

Can I make this drink without alcohol?
Yes. Replace the gin with extra club soda or a non-alcoholic gin option.

Is bottled lemon juice okay?
Fresh lemon juice tastes brighter, but bottled works if needed.

Can I use store-bought simple syrup?
Yes. Just make sure it’s a basic one to keep flavors clean.

What kind of pomegranate juice works best?
Pure pomegranate juice, without added sugar, offers the best balance.

Can I make this drink sweeter?
Yes. Add simple syrup in small amounts and taste as you go.

More Cocktails to Try

If you liked this one, these are worth a pour too.

• Classic Tom Collins with lemon and soda
• Cranberry Gin Fizz with light bubbles
• French 75 with citrus and sparkle
• Pear & Elderflower Collins: light floral notes with gentle citrus

Each one offers a refreshing profile while bringing its own twist, much like the Pomegranate Collins.