The John Collins Cocktail

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate

Are you a fan of refreshing, citrusy cocktails? If so, then the John Collins cocktail is the perfect drink for you!

The John Collins Cocktail
Prep
5 min
Total
5 min
Servings
1

Method

  1. Mix together bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.

  2. Add 1 cup of ice to the shaker and cover it.

  3. Shake the mixture until it becomes chilled.

  4. Use a strainer to pour the mixture into a Collins glass.

  5. Add another 1 cup of ice to the glass.

  6. Fill the glass with club soda and stir gently.

  7. To garnish, place orange and lemon slices along with a maraschino cherry on top of the drink.

About this drink

Are you a fan of refreshing, citrusy cocktails? If so, then the John Collins cocktail is the perfect drink for you! This classic cocktail is easy to make and is sure to impress your friends at your next gathering. In this article, we'll explore the history of the John Collins cocktail, its ingredients, and how to make it. So grab a glass and let's dive in!

The History of the John Collins Cocktail

Before we get into the details of making this delightful cocktail, let's take a trip back in time and explore its origins. The John Collins cocktail is believed to have originated in the mid-19th century in London. It was named after a head waiter named John Collins who worked at a popular hotel in the city.

Initially, the John Collins was made with genever, a Dutch-style gin. However, over time, the recipe evolved, and London dry gin became the preferred choice. Today, the John Collins cocktail is considered a classic and is enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts all around the world.

Ingredients

To make a delicious John Collins cocktail, you'll need a few simple ingredients. You'll need:

  • London dry gin
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Simple syrup
  • Soda water
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon slice and cherry for garnish

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let's move on to the fun part - making the cocktail!

How to Make a John Collins Cocktail

Making a John Collins cocktail is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  2. Add 2 ounces of London dry gin to the glass.
  3. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the glass.
  4. Add 1 ounce of simple syrup to the glass.
  5. Give the mixture a good stir to combine the ingredients.
  6. Top the glass with soda water.
  7. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cherry.
  8. Enjoy your refreshing John Collins cocktail!

Now that you know how to make a John Collins cocktail, it's time to impress your friends with your mixology skills. Cheers!

In Conclusion

The John Collins cocktail is a timeless classic that never fails to refresh and delight. With its citrusy flavors and simple preparation, it's a go-to cocktail for any occasion. Whether you're a fan of gin or just looking for a new cocktail to try, the John Collins is sure to become a favorite. So why not give it a go and raise a glass to the art of mixology?

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different type of gin to make a John Collins cocktail?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of gin to find your preferred flavor profile. However, London dry gin is traditionally used in a John Collins cocktail for its crisp and dry characteristics.

. Can I substitute lime juice for lemon juice in a John Collins cocktail?

Absolutely! While the traditional recipe calls for lemon juice, you can certainly use lime juice if you prefer a slightly different flavor profile. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

. Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the John Collins cocktail?

Definitely! To make a non-alcoholic version of the John Collins cocktail, simply omit the gin and replace it with a non-alcoholic gin alternative or additional soda water for a refreshing mocktail.

. Can I add other fruits to a John Collins cocktail?

Certainly! You can experiment with adding different fruits like berries or even muddled herbs like mint to customize your John Collins cocktail. Get creative and have fun with it!

. Can I prepare a batch of John Collins cocktails in advance for a party?

Yes, you can easily prepare a batch of John Collins cocktails in advance by scaling up the ingredients and mixing them in a pitcher. When serving, simply pour the cocktail into glasses filled with ice and garnish as desired.

. Is the John Collins cocktail similar to a Tom Collins?

Yes, the John Collins and the Tom Collins cocktails are quite similar. The main difference lies in the choice of gin used. The John Collins uses London dry gin, while the Tom Collins traditionally uses Old Tom gin.

. Can I add a splash of bitters to my John Collins cocktail?

Of course! Adding a dash of bitters, such as Angostura bitters, can add an extra layer of complexity to your John Collins cocktail. Give it a try and see how you like it!

. Can I make a John Collins cocktail without simple syrup?

Yes, if you prefer a less sweet version of the cocktail, you can skip the simple syrup altogether or adjust the amount to your taste. The choice is yours!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More cocktails

See all →