Tom Collins

Pro tips

• Juice fresh lemons by hand or with a citrus press just before mixing—oxidized juice loses brightness within an hour.
• Dissolve powdered sugar fully in lemon juice before adding gin; cold gin won't dissolve sugar efficiently.
• Fill the glass with ice before pouring to chill the drink; add soda water last and stir gently to preserve carbonation.
• Garnish with a cherry and lemon wheel for visual appeal and balance—the citrus complements the drink's tartness.

Substitutions

• Fresh lemon juice → bottled lemon juice (not ideal; lacks freshness and brightness)
• Powdered sugar → simple syrup, 0.5 oz (easier to incorporate, slightly different mouthfeel)
• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → any London Dry gin (London Dry style is the classic choice)

Storage & make-ahead

Tom Collins is best consumed immediately after mixing. Do not store pre-mixed cocktails; soda water loses carbonation.

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · citrus juicer · jigger or measuring glass

What is the difference between a Tom Collins and a John Collins?

A Tom Collins uses gin; a John Collins uses whiskey. The ratio and preparation method are otherwise identical.

Can I make a Tom Collins without soda water?

Soda water is essential for the carbonation and balance. Without it, you have a sour, not a Tom Collins.

Should I use fresh lemon juice or bottled?

Fresh lemon juice is strongly preferred for flavor and brightness; bottled lemon juice lacks the fresh citrus character.

Can I batch Tom Collins for a party?

Yes. Mix gin, lemon juice, and sugar in advance; add soda water and ice to each glass just before serving to preserve carbonation.

What type of gin works best?

A dry gin with juniper-forward botanicals (like London Dry style) is traditional; avoid heavily flavored or barrel-aged gins.