A Classic Tom Collins Cocktail Recipe
The world of cocktails is constantly evolving, with bartenders and mixologists experimenting with new flavors, techniques, and ingredients. But amidst all the modern mixology, there is something comforting and familiar about a classic cocktail. And when it comes to classic gin cocktails, the Tom Collins holds a special place in many people's hearts.
In this blog post, we'll take a trip down memory lane and revisit the origins of the Tom Collins, its variations, and of course, a delicious recipe for you to try at home. So get your cocktail shaker ready, because we're about to embark on a journey to discover the history and flavors of the classic Tom Collins.
The History of the Tom Collins
The Tom Collins is believed to have originated in New York in the early 19th century. It was first mentioned in the 1876 edition of "Jerry Thomas's Bartender's Guide," also known as the "Bon Vivant's Companion." This book, written by the famous bartender and mixologist Jerry Thomas, is considered to be the first cocktail recipe book in the United States.
Interestingly, the Tom Collins was not always a gin-based cocktail. In the early 19th century, it was known as a "John Collins" and was made with Old Tom gin, which is a sweeter style of gin compared to the London dry gin we know today. It was also made with genever, a Dutch-style of gin, and even whiskey.
But in the late 19th century, the Tom Collins we know and love today became popular, made with London dry gin and lemon juice. It was named after a popular practical joke of the time, where people would ask their friends if they knew Tom Collins. When their friends replied that they did not, they would tell them that Tom was talking behind their back at a nearby bar, causing them to frantically search for this non-existent person. This prank became so widespread that newspapers reported on it, and it even inspired a song and a play.
The Classic Tom Collins Recipe
Now that we know the history of the Tom Collins, let's dive into the classic recipe. Here's what you'll need:
2 ounces London dry gin
1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup
Club soda (to top)
Instructions:
In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
Add a handful of ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill the ingredients and dilute them slightly.
Strain the mixture into a Collins glass (or a highball or tall glass) filled with ice.
Top it off with club soda, and give it a gentle stir.
Garnish with a lemon slice and enjoy your classic Tom Collins!
Variations on the Classic Recipe
As with any classic cocktail, there are many variations and twists on the original recipe. Here are a few to try out:
Vodka Collins: Swap out the gin for vodka to create a refreshing and citrusy Vodka Collins.
Gin Fizz: Add a splash of simple syrup and lime juice to the classic recipe to create a Gin Fizz, which is a sweeter version of the Tom Collins.
Bourbon Collins: For a whiskey-based twist, substitute the gin with bourbon and enjoy a Bourbon Collins.
Tom Collins with a Twist: Add a splash of your favorite fruit liqueur to create a unique and flavorful version of the classic cocktail.
Tips for the Perfect Tom Collins
To achieve the best results, here are a few tips to keep in mind when making a Tom Collins:
1. Use fresh lemon juice. While bottled lemon juice may seem convenient, nothing beats the flavor of freshly squeezed lemon juice in a Tom Collins.
2. Use plenty of ice. This will help chill and dilute the cocktail, making it more refreshing and balanced.
3. Use a good quality gin. Since gin is the base spirit of this drink, it's essential to use a style of gin that you enjoy. London dry gin is the most commonly used type of gin in a Tom Collins, but you can experiment with other styles like Plymouth gin for a different flavor profile.
4. Make your own simple syrup. It's easy to make at home with just equal parts of sugar and water. This way, you can control the sweetness of your cocktail, and it will also save you from purchasing a pre-made sugar syrup.
5. Add a splash of club soda at the end. This will give your Tom Collins that signature fizz and make it even more refreshing.
The Tom Collins: A Staple in Classic Cocktail Recipes
The Tom Collins has stood the test of time and remains one of the most popular classic gin cocktails. It's a perfect drink for any occasion, whether it's a lazy afternoon by the pool, a happy hour with friends, or a fancy dinner party.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in classic cocktails, with bartenders and mixologists revisiting old recipes and techniques. The Tom Collins has also made a comeback, and it's now considered one of the favorite drinks of the present style.
Limmer's Hotel, a famous bar in London, is known to have served the best Tom Collins in the 19th century. The hotel's owner, John Collin's son, Jim Collins, was believed to have created the drink. However, this great Tom Collins hoax was later debunked, and it was discovered that the drink was named after a different John Collins, who was a bartender at the hotel. Nevertheless, the Tom Collins remains one of the old classics that have stood the test of time.
Bringing the Classic Tom Collins to Your Home Bar
Now that you have the perfect recipe for a classic Tom Collins, it's time to stock up your home bar with the necessary ingredients. You'll need a good quality dry gin, fresh lemons, simple syrup, and club soda. And of course, don't forget to have a cocktail shaker, a Collins glass, and plenty of ice on hand.
If you're looking to add a touch of Italian flair to your Tom Collins, try using limoncello instead of lemon juice. This Italian liqueur adds a delicious lemony twist to the cocktail and is a popular ingredient in many Italian recipes.
The Tom Collins is a timeless classic that has been enjoyed for centuries and continues to be a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. With its simple ingredients and refreshing taste, it's no wonder that it has stood the test of time and remains one of the best-loved cocktails of all time.
So the next time you're looking for the perfect drink to impress your friends or simply want to enjoy a delicious and refreshing cocktail, remember the Tom Collins. With its perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors and the added fizz from the club soda, it's sure to become one of your favorite cocktail recipes. Cheers to the classic Tom Collins!
A Classic Tom Collins Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces London dry gin
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- Club soda (to top)
- Lemon slice (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Add a handful of ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill the ingredients and dilute them slightly.
- Strain the mixture into a Collins glass (or a highball or tall glass) filled with ice.
- Top it off with club soda, and give it a gentle stir.
- Garnish with a lemon slice and enjoy your classic Tom Collins!
Notes
Feel free to adjust the amount of simple syrup to suit your taste preferences. You can also add more or less club soda depending on how strong you prefer your drink. Enjoy responsibly!
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