Tom Collins

Gin · Collins

The classic gin highball that emerged in the 1870s. While Jerry Thomas included similar drinks, this specific name and style became standardized in the post-Civil War era.

GlassCollins
GarnishNone
ABV18%
Categoryhighball
Flavorrefreshing, citrusy, effervescent

Ingredients

  • Gin2 oz
  • Fresh Lemon Juice1 oz
  • Simple Syrup0.5 oz
  • Soda Water4 oz
  • Lemon Wheel1 wheel
  • Maraschino Cherry1 cherry

Method

  1. In a collins glass, combine 2 oz gin
  2. Add 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  3. Add 0.5 oz simple syrup
  4. Fill with ice and stir
  5. Top with soda water
  6. Garnish with lemon wheel and maraschino cherry
  7. Serve with a straw

Pro Tips

  • 1874 London classic — gin, lemon, sugar, soda. The Collins glass is named after the drink.
  • Dry shake first (no soda), THEN add soda to the glass over ice.
  • A real Tom Collins is NEVER pre-mixed; Tom Collins mix in a bottle is sugar water.