The Tom Collins cocktail is a true classic in the world of long drinks and easily the best-known member of the Collins family. If you like, it’s a gin-based “spritzer,” as it has a lighter alcohol content and is perfect for sipping over a longer period of time. It was born in an era when cocktails were seen more as a refreshing pick-me-up than simply a way to drink alcohol. Overall, it’s a simple yet brilliant and beautifully balanced combination of gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and soda water.
Story
There are two main theories about the origins of the Tom Collins cocktail, and both trace back to the 1870s. One version comes from a popular prank in which people were convinced that a certain “Tom Collins” was spreading malicious rumors about them. Naturally, the victims went looking for this mysterious man—who, of course, didn’t exist. The other story claims that an enterprising bartender named John Collins. He worked at Limmer’s Hotel in London, named the “potion” after himself. However, it’s still debated whether Collins actually invented the recipe or simply helped popularize it with the wider public.
Ingredients
2 oz (60 ml) gin (preferably London dry gin)
1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 oz (15 ml) sugar syrup (a mixture of sugar and water in a 1:1 ratio)
2–3 oz (60–90 ml) soda water
How to Make a Tom Collins Cocktail
Pour the gin, lemon juice, and sugar syrup into a glass. Then add ice and top up with soda water. Finally, stir gently with a bar spoon so the soda water keeps its lively fizz.
Serving and Garnish
The Tom Collins cocktail is traditionally served in a Collins glass, whose tall shape perfectly highlights the drink’s refreshing effervescence. For garnish, add a slice of lemon in the glass or on the rim, or, for a classic finishing touch, top it with a maraschino cherry.
Calorie Content
A single serving of a Tom Collins cocktail contains approximately 170–180 calories, depending mainly on the type of sugar syrup used—though the choice of gin also plays a role.