Tom Collins in a tall highball glass with a lemon slice and cocktail cherry

Long Drink

Tom Collins

How to make a Tom Collins - the zesty gin longdrink with lemon, sugar syrup and soda. A classic recipe for a refreshing summer drink.

5 minPrep time
easyDifficulty
Highball glassGlass
1Serving(s)

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The Tom Collins is a refreshing gin longdrink that became popular in New York as early as the 19th century. The blend of gin, fresh lemon, sugar and sparkling soda is wonderfully zesty and perfect for hot summer days. A timeless thirst-quencher that rightly counts among the great classics.

Instructions

  1. Shake gin, lemon juice and sugar syrup vigorously with ice in a shaker.
  2. Fill a highball glass with fresh ice.
  3. Strain the contents of the shaker into the glass.
  4. Top up with cool soda water.
  5. Stir briefly and garnish with a lemon slice and a cocktail cherry.

Garnish: Lemon slice and cocktail cherry

Pro tip: Add the soda only at the very end and stir just briefly - that way the carbonation is preserved and the drink stays fresh longer.

Frequently asked questions

What sets a Tom Collins apart from a Gin Fizz?

The Tom Collins is served on ice in a tall glass and is a bit longer, while the Gin Fizz classically comes without ice in a smaller glass and is shaken more vigorously.

Which gin works for a Tom Collins?

Traditionally a slightly sweet Old Tom gin was used. Today a classic London Dry gin works very well too.

Can I make the sugar syrup myself?

Yes, simply heat sugar and water in a 1-to-1 ratio until the sugar has dissolved and let it cool.

Ingredients

  • Gin5 cl
  • Fresh lemon juice3 cl
  • Sugar syrup1.5 cl
  • Soda water6 cl
  • Ice cubesas needed