Tom Collins
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Citrus and gin. Does it get any more classic? A homemade Tom Collins cocktail is mere moments from gracing your hand! The hardest part is squeezing fresh lemon juice. You’ll be sipping away in less than 5 minutes.
So, who is Tom Collins anyway? While there surely have been many people named Tom Collins to exist, this cocktail wasn’t named after any of them. This name is the amalgamation of the variety of gin classically used called “Old Tom”, and the surname Collins, from a man named Jim Collins, the supposed “Tom Collins” creator. Like many old classic cocktails we can never be too sure on the etymology, but the stories are always a fun read.
It’s a simple, refreshing, citrusy cocktail. A double that doesn’t taste like a double. A “be careful or you won’t be able to stand up” type of drink. Practically chuggable with the way that lemon masks the intensity of the gin. If I can offer any sound advice: less ice, more soda. Stretch it out!
Ingredients
- Ice
- Gin – Ideally a dry variety.
- Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed or from a bottle.
- Simple syrup – Check below to find out how to make your own simple syrup.
- Club soda – Or tonic. Still water can be used if you don’t want any fizz.
- Garnish – Fresh lemon and a maraschino cherry.
What type of gin should I use?
A classic Tom Collins is always made with a dry gin, but, let’s get real here. This is your home bar! This lemony cocktail will be fantastic with any type of gin you prefer. New to the world of gin? Here is some info on the the four main types:
- London Dry: This is the variety you’ll get if you order a Tom Collins in a restaurant or bar. Bombay Sapphire, Beefeater, and Tanqueray are all popular types of London Dry. This is the classic strong juniper and citrus flavor we recognize in gin.
- Plymouth: The ultimate dry gin. Drier than a London Dry, this type of gin is very citrusy featuring a touch of spice. This is a great variety for those who aren’t fans of a strong juniper flavor. Plymouth is very floral and sippable.
- Genever: While still containing classic juniper flavors, genever adds a hint of floral notes. This variety is much more mild in the juniper flavor than you’re used to. You’ll also taste spice such as nutmeg, ginger, and clove offering up some maltiness.
- Old Tom: Last, but certainly not least! This type of gin is aged in wine barrels, and very recognizable with its caramel color. Old Tom is sweet and floral. It’s great for those who struggle with the juniper-forward flavor of gin.
Can I use a different spirit?
I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Today, we are essentially just making lemonade with gin. This is great news! It means that you can substitute practically any spirit you have on hand and it’ll still be good. Lemon is the one ingredient that will work with anything! Sweet or savory. I will always stand by this hot take.
Tequila, whiskey, vodka, brandy, or rum. It may not be a Tom Collins anymore, but it’ll still taste delicious and refreshing.
How to make simple syrup
You can mix in some granulated sugar and call it a day, but I highly recommend whipping up this quick syrup. It will mix into your drink beautifully without leaving a grainy ultra sweet mess at the bottom of your glass.
- Add equal parts water and granulated sugar to a skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Stirring often, heat until the sugar has completely dissolved. Take the pan off the heat.
- Let the pan cool for 10-15 minutes before using or transferring to a bottle to store.
Your syrup will last 3-4 weeks if properly stored in a sealable bottle in the fridge.
How to make a Tom Collins
- Fill a collins glass with ice. Pour the gin, lemon juice, and syrup into the glass. Stir well with a bar spoon.
- Top to fill the glass with club soda. Garnish with a wheel of lemon and cherry to serve.
Check out these fabulous homemade cocktails
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Tom Collins
Ingredients
- ice
- 2 ounce gin (dry)
- 1 ounce lemon juice
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- 2-4 ounce club soda
Optional Garnish
- wheel of lemon
- maraschino cherry (or fresh cherries)
Before You Begin! If you make this, please leave a review and rating letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business thrive & continue providing free recipes.
Instructions
- Fill a collins glass with ice. Pour the gin, lemon juice, and syrup into the glass. Stir well with a bar spoon.
- Top to fill the glass with club soda. Garnish wit a wheel of lemon and cherry to serve.
Nutrition Information
Notice: Nutrition is auto-calculated for your convenience. Where relevant, we recommend using your own nutrition calculations.
