A classic Tom Collins is a refreshing mix of Gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup and soda all topped off with a bright red maraschino cherry.
 
Lemon slices and red cherry in a glass of Tom Collins with lemons and cherries on a serving tray
 
We’re toasting to the weekend!
 

The history

 
What possibly started out as the John Collins in London, this was the name of the head waiter who worked at Limmer’s Old House in the Mayfair area of London. The first Tom Collins drink dated back to 1876 so this drink has some history.
 
With over 18 other Collins drinks, the Classic Tom Collins is still the most popular and makes appearances in movies and TV shows like Meet the Parents and Mad Men. 
 
 
Stirring a glass of Tom Collins

Perfectly refreshing for those hot summer days and made with just a few simple ingredients.  Gin (vodka can be used), fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, club soda and garnished with maraschino cherries served in a tall glass.

The glass

This drink must be served in a tall glass. There is a glass called a Collins glass specifically made to serve this drink.

A glass of Tom Collins from the side with a serving tray

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Yield: 1 drink

Classic Tom Collins

A tall glass filled with ice and Tom Collins garnished with lemon slices and a cherry

A classic Tom Collins is a refreshing mix of Gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup and soda all topped off with a bright red maraschino cherries.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) gin
  • 1 ounce (1 tablespoons) lemon juice
  • ½ ounce (1 tablespoon) simple syrup * see note
  • 8 ounces (236 ml) club soda/carbonated water
  • Maraschino/glacé cherry for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pour the gin, lemon juice and simple syrup into a tall glass, stir. Fill with ice and top up with club soda. Garnish with the cherry.

Notes

* To make simple syrup add 1 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon water to a saucepan over medium heat until sugar is dissolved. Allow to cool.

Nutrition Information

Yield

1

Serving Size

1

Amount Per Serving Calories 167Total Fat 0gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 11mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 0gSugar 9gProtein 0g

This nutrition calculation is provided by Nutronix that is only a guideline and not intended for any particular diet.