John Collins
A timeless and refreshing highball, the John Collins is essentially a Tom Collins made with whiskey instead of gin. This simple swap creates a robust and satisfying sparkling sour that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- ½ oz Simple Syrup
- 4 oz Club Soda, chilled
- Garnish: Orange Slice & a Cherry
Instructions
- Combine and Shake: Add the whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake Well: Shake for about 10-15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is nicely chilled.
- Strain into Glass: Fill a tall Collins glass with fresh ice cubes. Strain the mixture from the shaker into the glass.
- Top with Soda: Gently top the drink with chilled club soda, pouring down the side of the glass to preserve the bubbles.
- Garnish: Give the drink a gentle stir and garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.
Pro Tips for Perfection
Whiskey Choice Matters: The type of whiskey you use will define the drink's character. A Bourbon-based John Collins will be sweeter and have notes of vanilla and caramel. Using a Rye whiskey will result in a spicier, drier cocktail.
John vs. Tom: The only official difference between a John Collins and a Tom Collins is the base spirit. A John Collins uses whiskey (originally Dutch gin or genever), while a Tom Collins uses Old Tom Gin (or modern London Dry Gin).