Name: Tom Collins Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 3 min
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients: 60 ml London Dry Gin; 30 ml lemon juice; 15 ml Simple Syrup; 120 ml Soda Water; 1 piece Lemon Wheel (for garnish); 1 cherry (for garnish)

Tom Collins

Description

The Tom Collins is a classic gin-based highball cocktail, known for its light, citrusy, and effervescent qualities. It dates back to the 1870s, with its first recorded recipe appearing in the 1876 bartender guide written by Jerry Thomas. The drink is believed to have originated from the London Gin Punch, evolving into the Collins cocktail we know today.

It is a simple yet elegant drink, made with gin, fresh lemon juice, sugar syrup, and soda water, creating a balance of sweetness, tartness, and effervescence. It is the perfect cocktail for summer refreshment.

Ingredients

60 ml London Dry Gin
30 ml lemon juice
15 ml Simple Syrup
120 ml Soda Water
1 piece Lemon Wheel (for garnish)
1 cherry (for garnish)

Equipment needed

Bar Spoon – Used to stir the finished drink.

Instructions

Fill a Collins glass with ice cubes.
Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
Stir gently to mix, then top with soda water and stir lightly.
Garnish with a lemon wheel and a cherry.

Recommended glassware

Collins Glass (recommended)

A tall straight-sided glass perfect for long refreshing cocktails.

300–410 ml Tall, straight-sided, narrower than a highball.

Best for: Mojito, Tom Collins, Paloma, Gin Fizz, long refreshing cocktails.

Garnish: Excellent for mint sprigs, lime wedges, citrus wheels, and straws.

Highball Glass

A tall everyday glass for mixed drinks with ice and a longer pour.

A close alternative.

240–350 ml Tall cylindrical shape with room for ice and mixer.

Best for: Moscow Mule, Dark and Stormy, Scotch Highball, Rum and Coke, Mojito variations.

Garnish: Good for wedges, spears, herbs, and long-drink garnishes.

Quick facts

3 mins Easy Approx. 11% ABV 1.7 units 170 kcal Ice Batch friendly