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 ... more 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
Garnish
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Cocktail cherry, lemon
Alcohol content
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12% | 1.8 units *

Highball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
30ml 1oz 3cl
45ml 1½oz 4.5cl
60ml 2oz 6cl
15ml ½oz 1.5cl
Couple dashes Couple dashes Couple dashes

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. ~

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

·  Bitters  ·  Highball  ·  Stir  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

ORIGINS_HISTORY

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

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

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

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

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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