The Collins Cocktail: Classic Elegance in a Glass
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The Collins cocktail is a timeless favorite that delivers a perfect balance of tart, sweet, and bubbly refreshment. Whether you're new to cocktails or a seasoned enthusiast, the Collins is an excellent addition to your repertoire — crisp, versatile, and endlessly adaptable.
A Brief History of the Collins
The Collins cocktail dates back to the late 19th century and is believed to be named after a bartender, John Collins, who worked in London during the 1800s. The original recipe was likely a variation of the Tom Collins, which itself emerged around the 1870s or 1880s.
While the Tom Collins was originally made with Old Tom gin—a slightly sweeter style of gin popular at the time—the drink has evolved to include variations with whiskey (John Collins), vodka, and other spirits. The cocktail became popular due to its refreshing qualities and perfect balance of sour, sweet, and effervescent components.
The Tom Collins was famously featured in Jerry Thomas’s 1876 book The Bartender's Guide, one of the earliest cocktail recipe books, cementing it as a classic.
The Collins Glass: More Than Just a Vessel
One distinctive feature of the Collins cocktail experience is the Collins glass — a tall, narrow glass typically holding about 10 to 14 ounces.
Why Use a Collins Glass?
- Preserves carbonation: The tall, narrow shape helps keep soda water bubbly and refreshing.
- Ideal volume: Accommodates plenty of ice, spirit, mixers, and garnishes without spilling.
- Elegant presentation: Its slim silhouette beautifully showcases colorful garnishes like lemon wheels and cherries.
If you don’t have a Collins glass, a highball glass (usually smaller in capacity) can work as a substitute, but nothing beats the Collins glass for an authentic experience.
Classic Tom Collins Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 4-6 oz soda water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon wheel and maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a Collins glass with ice.
- Add gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Top with soda water and stir lightly again.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and a cherry.
Creative Collins Variations to Try
Elevate your Collins with these flavorful twists that keep the refreshing fizz intact while exploring new flavor profiles.
1. Grapefruit Rosemary Collins
- Replace lemon juice with fresh grapefruit juice.
- Use rosemary-infused simple syrup (heat equal parts sugar and water with a sprig of rosemary, then cool before use).
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig and grapefruit wheel.
2. Berry Vodka Collins
- Swap gin for vodka.
- Muddle fresh strawberries or raspberries at the bottom before adding ice.
- Use lemon juice and simple syrup as usual.
- Top with soda water and garnish with fresh berries.
3. Elderflower Gin Collins
- Add 0.5 oz elderflower liqueur or cordial for floral sweetness alongside lemon juice and simple syrup.
- Top with soda water.
- Garnish with lemon peel and a sprig of mint.
4. Whiskey John Collins
- Substitute gin with bourbon or rye whiskey.
- Follow the classic lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water formula.
- Garnish with lemon wedge and maraschino cherry for a rich, warming twist.
5. Spiced Collins
- Add a dash of bitters (such as Angostura or orange bitters) to the classic recipe.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or star anise for aroma.
Tips for the Perfect Collins
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice — it makes a major difference in brightness and flavor.
- Adjust simple syrup according to your preferred sweetness. Start with 0.5 oz and add more if you like it sweeter.
- Chill your Collins glass beforehand for an extra refreshing experience.
- Stir gently after adding soda water to maintain carbonation.
Cheers to the Collins!
Whether classic or creatively inspired, the Collins is a cocktail that celebrates freshness, effervescence, and elegance. Using the right glass and quality ingredients will ensure every sip is refreshing and perfectly balanced. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and crafting your signature Collins!
