John Collins
Alessandro Scire CalabrisottoShare
Long, lively and endlessly easy to drink, the John Collins is the whiskey-loving sibling of the famous Tom Collins. Built on spirit, lemon, sugar and soda over plenty of ice, it is a tall cooler with a rich history and a deeply satisfying balance of sweet, sour and sparkle.
History of the John Collins
The Collins family of drinks dates back to the nineteenth century, and the John Collins is generally regarded as the original of the line. Its name is often traced to a head waiter named John Collins who worked at a London hotel, where he is said to have served an early version of the drink made with genever, the malty Dutch-style gin.
Over time the recipe evolved and split into variations. When the drink came to be made with Old Tom gin, it became known as the Tom Collins, while the name John Collins endured for versions made with whiskey — most commonly bourbon. Today the John Collins is firmly established as the whiskey-based member of the family, a refreshing classic that has weathered well over more than a century.
Recipe: How to Make a Classic John Collins
Ingredients:
- 60 ml (2 oz) bourbon whiskey
- 30 ml (1 oz) fresh lemon juice
- 15 ml (0.5 oz) simple syrup
- 60 ml (2 oz) chilled soda water
Instructions:
- Add the bourbon, lemon juice and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake for around 10 to 12 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a tall Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with chilled soda water, stir gently and garnish with a lemon slice and a cherry.
Tips for Perfection:
- Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled to keep the drink bright and balanced.
- Add the soda last and stir gently to preserve as much fizz as possible.
- Serve in a well-chilled glass packed with ice to keep it cold and crisp to the final sip.
Additional Recommendations
Variations:
- Tom Collins: the gin-based version, made with Old Tom or London Dry gin.
- Rye Collins: using rye whiskey for a spicier, drier character.
- Sparkling Collins: finishing with sparkling wine in place of soda for a festive lift.
Pairings:
- Grilled or barbecued meats.
- Salted snacks such as pretzels or roasted nuts.
- Sharp Cheddar and crackers.
Presentation:
- Serve in a tall Collins glass to show off its effervescence and length.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and a cherry on a cocktail pick for a classic finish.
Curiosity: A Fun Fact About the John Collins
The Collins is so iconic that it gave its name to the glass it is served in — the tall, narrow Collins glass is now a standard piece of barware used for countless long drinks the world over, a lasting tribute to this nineteenth-century cooler.