Mixing this totally tasty classic Tom Collins cocktail brings back many memories. It’s a timeless, refreshing drink that’s simple to make and always satisfying.
One of my favorite Tom Collins memories comes from the early days of dating Christopher. We were at a restaurant near the university and I ordered a Tom Collins. What I remember most is how delicious it was—and how laughing while drinking it made me cough. It was our second date, I sputtered a little, and he still asked for a second date. The rest, as they say, is history.
This cocktail always reminds me of youth, warm late-summer nights and easy laughter.
How to make the Tom Collins cocktail
The classic Tom Collins uses just four ingredients: gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup and club soda. It’s straightforward and bright. The drink’s gin base surprised me at first—my mom had warned me and I couldn’t believe it was gin because the flavors are so well balanced it doesn’t taste overtly alcoholic. That’s part of its charm (and a gentle reminder to sip responsibly).
Nothing like a great glass
I’m a fan of the classic Collins glass, which is tall and cylindrical with straight sides. I hunted for one and couldn’t find it, so I used a long drink glass with a slight flare. It worked fine—though purists will insist a true Collins glass is straight-sided from bottom to rim. Either way, a tall glass shows off the drink nicely.
To make one Tom Collins:
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Add 2 ounces gin (I like Bombay Sapphire).
- Add 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Add 1 ounce simple syrup.
- Cap the shaker and shake at least 10 times to chill and combine.
After shaking, pour the mixture (including ice) into your Collins or long glass. Open a bottle of club soda carefully and top the drink with club soda to fill the glass. A little foam often forms on top, which looks lovely. Finish by placing a lemon wheel on the rim as a garnish.
Cap and shake
Shake well, pour into the glass, and top with club soda. Place the lemon wheel on the rim and serve immediately. Sip slowly—and try not to laugh mid-sip if you want to avoid the coughing fit I experienced on that date!
I hope you enjoy this Tom Collins recipe as much as I enjoyed revisiting that memory. It’s a bright, easy cocktail that’s perfect for warm evenings or a relaxed gathering.
Please feel free to save any photos for inspiration and leave a comment sharing one of your favorite date-night drinks. And as always—may your dishes and drinks be delish!
Totally Tasty Classic Tom Collins Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin I used Bombay Sapphire
- 1 ounce lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- Club soda to fill glass
Garnish
- lemon wheel
Instructions
- Fill a shaker halfway with ice.
- Add gin, lemon juice and simple syrup.
- Cap the shaker and shake at least 10 times.
- Pour into a Collins glass or other tall glass.
- Open club soda slowly and top the glass.
- Place a lemon wheel on the rim of the glass.
- Sip and enjoy.
- Tip: Be careful laughing while sipping—bubbly drinks can cause surprise coughs!
Notes
Nutrition
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Calories: 213kcal
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Carbohydrates: 22g