John Collins
The John Collins is a vibrant, refreshing highball cocktail that perfectly balances the zing of lemon, the sweetness of simple syrup, and the botanical kick of gin, all lifted by a sparkling splash of club soda. It's the ultimate thirst-quencher for warm afternoons and lively gatherings—a classic that never goes out of style.
- Gin60 ml (2 oz)London Dry gin preferred, but any quality gin works
- Fresh lemon juice30 ml (1 oz)Use freshly squeezed for best flavor
- Simple syrup25 ml (0.75 oz)Adjust to taste; homemade or store-bought
- Club soda60 ml (2 oz)Add more or less for desired dilution
- Ice1 cupFor shaking and serving
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger
- Bar spoon
- Strainer
- Highball glass
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Pour in the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill and combine.
Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
Top with club soda and give a gentle stir with a bar spoon.
Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry.
- Bright and refreshing flavor profile
- Easy to make with common bar ingredients
- Perfect for summer sipping or as a crowd-pleaser at parties
- Customizable with different gins or citrus twists
- Low in calories compared to creamy cocktails
The origins of the John Collins trace back to 19th-century London, where it was first concocted at Limmer's Old House by a headwaiter named John Collins. The drink originally featured genever (Dutch gin), lemon, sugar, and soda water. Over time, the base spirit evolved to the London Dry gin we know today, distinguishing the John Collins from its whiskey-based cousin, the Tom Collins. The John Collins has since become a staple in the world of classic cocktails, adored for its simplicity and versatility.
A lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry—these not only add visual appeal but also enhance the fresh citrus aroma as you sip.
Approx. 170 calories per serving. Contains minimal fat and protein; sugars depend on amount of simple syrup used. Contains alcohol.