John Collins
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John Collins
Cocktail recipe

Rating

3.55 / 5
The John Collins is a refreshing classic cocktail that is a close relative of the Tom Collins, with a history that dates back to the 19th century. It typically features a crisp blend of lemon juice and gin, balanced out with sweet sugar syrup and topped with a splash of soda water for a fizzy finish. Served in a tall highball glass and often garnished with a slice of lemon and a maraschino cherry, the John Collins provides a harmonious mix of sour and sweet flavors with a bubbly texture that makes it an ideal choice for sipping on a warm day or as a palate-cleansing pre-dinner drink.
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Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
Base ingredient
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Gin
Calories
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163 calories
Garnish
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Cocktail cherry, lemon
Alcohol content
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12% | 1.8 units *

Tags

Gin ingredient icon
Gin cocktails

Highball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Lemon Juice cocktail ingredient icon for the John Collins cocktail
Lemon Juice
Gin cocktail ingredient icon for the John Collins cocktail
Gin
Soda water cocktail ingredient icon for the John Collins cocktail
Soda water
Sugar Syrup cocktail ingredient icon for the John Collins cocktail
Sugar Syrup
Angostura Bitters cocktail ingredient icon for the John Collins cocktail
Angostura Bitters
Serves:
-
+

Method
How to make a John Collins

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Pour all ingredients except the bitters directly into highball glass filled with ice
Stir gently
Garnish with a lemon slice and maraschino cherry and serve
~ Use Old Tom Gin for a Tom Collins. ~

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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Bitters  ·  Highball  ·  Stir  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the John Collins cocktail?

The John Collins cocktail is named after a headwaiter who worked at Limmer's Old House in London during the 19th century. The creation of the cocktail is attributed to him, and it's believed to have been first made in the 1820s. The drink became widely popular in England and eventually made its way across the globe.

Preparation techniques icon

Why is the John Collins cocktail stirred and not shaken?

The John Collins cocktail is stirred and not shaken to maintain the clarity and texture of the drink. Shaking can introduce air bubbles and create a cloudy appearance, while stirring gently combines the ingredients while preserving the soda water's carbonation, leading to a smooth and visually appealing cocktail.

Garnishing tips icon

What are some traditional garnishes for a John Collins?

A traditional John Collins is typically garnished with a lemon slice and a maraschino cherry. These garnishes add a pop of color and a hint of additional flavor that complements the citrus notes of the cocktail.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content in a John Collins compare to other classic cocktails?

With an alcohol content of roughly 12%, the John Collins has a relatively moderate alcohol content when compared to other classic cocktails. For instance, a Martini or a Manhattan typically has a higher alcohol content, ranging from 25% to 30%, making the John Collins a lighter option suitable for social occasions where guests might prefer a less potent drink.

Serving suggestions icon

What is the ideal occasion to serve a John Collins?

The John Collins, with its refreshing and moderately alcoholic profile, is perfect for serving at summer parties, outdoor barbecues, or any casual gathering. Its light and effervescent nature makes it an excellent choice for daytime events or as a welcome drink to kick off an evening.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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