Tom Collins

Pro tips

• Chill your glass with ice water before serving to keep the drink cold longer.
• Dissolve the powdered sugar completely in the lemon juice before adding gin to avoid gritty texture.
• Use fresh ice and top with sparkling water just before serving to preserve carbonation.
• Adjust the ratio of sparkling water to taste—some prefer it stronger, others lighter and more refreshing.

Substitutions

• Powdered sugar → Simple syrup (1 oz; no need to dissolve)
• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → Any London Dry gin (Beefeater, Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire)
• Sparkling water → Club soda or seltzer water

Storage & make-ahead

Tom Collins is best served immediately after mixing. Do not make ahead.

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · bar spoon or long spoon for stirring · jigger for measuring · tall glass (10–12 oz highball)

What's the difference between a Tom Collins and a Gin Fizz?

Both use gin, lemon, and sugar, but a Tom Collins is topped with sparkling water and served in a tall glass, while a Gin Fizz traditionally includes an egg white for a silky texture.

Can I make a Tom Collins without powdered sugar?

Yes. Use an equal amount of simple syrup (1 oz) or dissolve 1 tsp of regular granulated sugar in the lemon juice before adding gin.

Should I use fresh lemon juice?

Yes. Fresh-squeezed lemon juice is essential for flavor; bottled lemon juice will taste flat and chemical by comparison.

How full should the glass be?

Fill a tall glass (10–12 oz) with ice, add gin, lemon juice, and sugar, then top with 3–4 oz of cold sparkling water to taste.

What gin works best?

London Dry gin is traditional; use a mid-range bottle for balance. Premium or heavily botanicked gins can overpower the citrus.