Tom Collins

Pro tips

• Shake the gin, lemon juice, and powdered sugar vigorously with ice for 10–15 seconds to fully dissolve the sugar and chill the drink.
• Use fresh-squeezed lemon juice, not bottled—the acidity and flavor are noticeably brighter and make the cocktail sing.
• Add fresh ice to the serving glass just before straining; warm or melted ice dilutes the drink unevenly.
• Top with soda water last and stir gently to avoid losing carbonation; cold, crisp soda water is essential.

Substitutions

• Mr. Boston Gin → any dry London Dry gin (Tanqueray, Beefeater, Gordon's)
• Fresh lemon juice → lime juice for a Tom Collins variant (though this changes the classic profile)

Storage & make-ahead

Cocktails are best enjoyed fresh; prepare and serve immediately. Do not store mixed drinks.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · bar spoon · Hawthorne strainer

What is the difference between a Tom Collins and a Gin Sour?

A Tom Collins includes soda water, making it longer and more refreshing; a Gin Sour omits the soda and focuses on the spirit, lemon, and sugar alone.

Can I make a Tom Collins without powdered sugar?

Yes, use an equal amount of simple syrup (or ½ tsp regular sugar dissolved in a little water), though powdered sugar dissolves faster and is traditional.

How much soda water goes in a Tom Collins?

Top the drink with 2–4 oz of cold soda water, depending on how strong you prefer it; start with 3 oz and adjust to taste.

Should a Tom Collins be shaken or stirred?

Shake the gin, lemon juice, and powdered sugar with ice, then strain into a glass filled with fresh ice and top with soda water.

What gin works best for a Tom Collins?

A dry London Dry style gin (like Tanqueray or Beefeater) is traditional, but any quality gin will work; avoid heavily botanical gins that may overpower the citrus.