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John Collins cocktail
Alcoholic Ordinary Drink Collins glass Easy

John Collins

The John Collins is a refreshing and effervescent cocktail that perfectly balances the sweetness of bourbon with the tartness of lemon juice. Topped with club soda, it’s a delightful drink that’s perfect for warm weather or any festive occasion.

7 Ingredients
5 min Prep Time
Collins glass Glass
On The Rocks Best Served
sweet sour refreshing

Ingredients

  • Bourbon spirit 60 ml (2 oz)
  • Lemon juice juice 30 ml (1 oz)
  • Superfine Sugar syrup 1 tsp
  • Club soda mixer 90 ml (3 oz)
  • Maraschino cherry garnish 1
  • Orange garnish 1 slice
  • Angostura bitters bitter 1 dash

How to Make a John Collins

Pour all ingredients directly into highball glass filled with ice. Stir gently. Garnish. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.

Bartender Tip

💡

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.

History of the John Collins

The John Collins is believed to be a variation of the Tom Collins, which dates back to the 19th century. It is named after a bartender named John Collins who worked at Limmer's Old House in London.

About the John Collins

The John Collins is a ordinary drink that belongs to the alcoholic family of cocktails. It is traditionally prepared with Bourbon, Lemon juice, Sugar and served in a Collins glass.

Best enjoyed at parties, in summer, during celebrations.

As with all alcoholic beverages, please enjoy this cocktail responsibly.

IBA

Did You Know?

The John Collins is often confused with the Tom Collins, but the key difference lies in the base spirit used—bourbon for John and gin for Tom.

John Collins Variations

Tom Collins This variation uses gin instead of bourbon, resulting in a lighter and more botanical flavor profile. Swap: Bourbon is replaced with gin.
John Collins with Angostura Adding a dash of Angostura bitters gives the cocktail a more complex flavor, enhancing the overall depth. Swap: Includes Angostura bitters.

Pairs Well With

Grilled chicken salad Shrimp tacos Lemon meringue pie

Quick Facts

~180
Calories
Medium
Strength
5 min
Prep Time

Common Mistake

A common mistake is not stirring the drink gently enough, which can lead to uneven mixing of the ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the John Collins cocktail?

The John Collins cocktail is believed to have originated in the 19th century, named after a bartender named John Collins who worked at Limmer's Old House in London. It is a variation of the Tom Collins, which uses gin instead of bourbon.

Can I use different types of whiskey in a John Collins?

Yes, while bourbon is the traditional choice for a John Collins, you can experiment with other types of whiskey such as rye or even blended whiskey. Each type will impart a unique flavor profile to the cocktail.

What is the best way to garnish a John Collins?

The classic garnish for a John Collins includes a maraschino cherry and a slice of orange. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the drink's citrus notes.

Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version of the John Collins?

Absolutely! You can create a non-alcoholic version by substituting bourbon with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative or simply using iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing twist.

What type of club soda should I use in a John Collins?

It's best to use a high-quality club soda that is carbonated well, as it will enhance the effervescence of the drink. Look for club sodas with minimal added minerals for a cleaner taste.

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