Cocktail recipe

John Collins recipe.

John Collins combines Bourbon with lemon juice, Sugar syrup, and Soda Water, finishing with a lively, refreshing lift.

Cocktail recipe 5 mins Mocktail option
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John Collins cocktail image
John Collins

Description

There is a useful confidence to John Collins. The recipe combines Bourbon, lemon juice, Sugar syrup, and Soda Water. Bubbles keep the serve open and refreshing, so the richer or sweeter elements stay light on the palate.

It fits naturally into aperitif hour, garden drinks, parties or any round where you want flavour without a heavy finish. Use fresh ice and serve promptly so the texture and aroma arrive at their best.

Ingredients

  • 50 ml Bourbon
  • 25 ml lemon juice
  • 15 ml Sugar syrup
  • 80 ml Soda Water
  • Ice
  • Lemon slice and cherry garnish

Equipment needed

Bar Spoon – Used to stir the drink smoothly with ice before serving. Muddler – Useful for gently pressing herbs, fruit or sugar when building the drink.

Instructions

  1. Add the bourbon, fresh lemon juice and sugar syrup to a shaker with ice.
  2. Shake briefly until well chilled.
  3. Strain into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
  4. Top with soda water, stir gently and garnish with lemon.

Recommended glassware

Lowball Glass
Lowball Glass (recommended)

A short, sturdy glass for spirit-forward cocktails served over ice.

180–300 ml Short, wide, heavy-bottomed tumbler.

Best for: Old Fashioned, Negroni, Boulevardier, Whiskey Sour over ice, Rusty Nail.

Garnish: Great for orange twists, cherries, and large clear ice cubes.

Coupe Glass
Coupe Glass

An elegant stemmed glass for shaken or stirred cocktails served up.

Useful alternative if the primary glass is not available.

120–240 ml Stemmed glass with a broad shallow bowl.

Best for: Daiquiri, Sidecar, Manhattan served up, Gimlet, Clover Club.

Garnish: Great for expressed citrus peels, cherries, and small edible flowers.

Quick facts

5 mins Easy Approx. 16% ABV 0.3 units 255 kcal Fresh ice Mocktail option
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