Whiskey CollinsCocktail recipe
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You’ll find the Whiskey Collins is a bourbon-led spin on the broader Collins family: tall, citrusy, and lengthened with soda for an easy, refreshing profile. While the most famous Collins variations are tied to gin, this version keeps the same long-drink structure and simply swaps in whiskey, giving you a warmer, more robust backbone without losing that bright, sparkling character.
On the palate, bourbon brings vanilla-leaning sweetness and oak depth that plays neatly against the snap of lemon juice. Simple syrup smooths the citrus edge and helps the whiskey feel rounder, while soda water lifts everything into a lighter, more sessionable sip. A couple of dashes of aromatic bitters add a dry, spiced accent that stitches the sweet and sour together and keeps the finish from feeling too sugary.
Serve it in a highball when you want something refreshing but not delicate—ideal for warm afternoons, casual get-togethers, or as a crowd-pleasing alternative to whiskey-forward sippers. If you like whiskey but want a brighter, longer drink, this is the one you’ll reach for.
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Highball glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Bourbon leads with warm oak and vanilla, brightened by lemon juice and rounded by simple syrup, while soda water lifts everything into a crisp, tall sip and aromatic bitters add a faint spice-and-herb edge on the finish. The lemon’s snap keeps the syrup from feeling heavy and the bubbles keep the bourbon from dominating, making it ideal for whiskey drinkers who want something refreshing and for citrus fans who still like a sturdy base.
Method
How to make a Whiskey Collins
- Bourbon 60ml, Sugar / simple syrup 15ml, Soda water 30ml, Aromatic bitters 2 dashes, Lemon juice 22.5ml
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- Begin by adding the first four ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice
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- Securely close the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, or until the shaker feels cold and frosted on the outside
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- Carefully strain the mixture into a glass that's already filled with fresh ice, ensuring a smooth pour
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- Gently pour soda water over the mixture to top off the glass
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- With a bar spoon or similar utensil, give the drink a quick stir to integrate the soda water with the shaken ingredients, ensuring a well-balanced cocktail
Power tips
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Find out more- Use a high-quality bourbon for a smoother and richer flavor profile.
- Add a twist of lemon peel to garnish, which can complement the lemon juice and add aromatic freshness.
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FAQ's
What is the history behind the Whiskey Collins?
The Whiskey Collins is a variation of the classic Tom Collins cocktail, which dates back to the mid-19th century. The original Tom Collins is made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water. The Whiskey Collins replaces gin with bourbon or another type of whiskey, giving it a richer, deeper flavor profile. The cocktail is part of the Collins family, known for their refreshing and fizzy characteristics.
Can I use a different type of whiskey in a Whiskey Collins?
Yes, while bourbon is traditionally used in a Whiskey Collins for its sweet and full-bodied flavor, you can certainly experiment with other types of whiskey. Rye whiskey can offer a spicier kick, while Scotch whisky could introduce smokey or peaty notes. Each type of whiskey will bring its own unique taste to the cocktail, so feel free to explore.
What can I use as a substitute for sugar syrup if I don't have any?
If you don't have sugar syrup, you can easily make a simple syrup at home by dissolving sugar in equal parts boiling water and allowing it to cool. Alternatively, you can use agave syrup, honey diluted with a bit of warm water, or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. However, these substitutes might subtly change the flavor of the cocktail.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Whiskey Collins?
Yes, to make a non-alcoholic version of the Whiskey Collins, you can use a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative or simply skip the whiskey and add more soda water for a refreshing, lemony soda. Non-alcoholic bitters are also available to fully mimic the cocktail's original flavor profile without the alcohol content.
How should I garnish a Whiskey Collins?
A traditional garnish for a Whiskey Collins is a slice of lemon and a maraschino cherry. The lemon slice adds a fresh citrus aroma, complementing the cocktail's lemon juice, while the cherry introduces a hint of sweetness and color. Feel free to add a sprig of mint for an extra pop of color and freshness.
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