A classic Tom Collins is light and refreshing. It’s made with gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda, then finished 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

The history

The drink may have started as the John Collins in London. John Collins was the head waiter at Limmer’s Old House in Mayfair. The first Tom Collins dates back to 1876, giving this cocktail a long 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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A tall glass filled with ice and Tom Collins garnished with lemon slices and a cherry
5 from 11 reviews

Classic Tom Collins

Janette
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
Servings: 1 drink
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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
 

  • 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.
Serving: 1, Calories: 167kcal, Carbohydrates: 10g, Sodium: 11mg, Sugar: 9g
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