Whisky Collins

The Whisky Collins is a refreshing highball that marries the robust character of whisky with the tangy brightness of lemon juice and the effervescence of club soda. It's a lively, approachable twist on the classic Tom Collins, perfect for those who love whisky and crave a long, thirst-quenching cocktail. Whether you're winding down on a warm evening or hosting friends, the Whisky Collins brings a crisp, citrusy kick with just the right amount of sweetness.

5 minutesEasy1 serving
Whisky Collins
Featured
Ingredients
1 serving
  • Whisky
    60 ml (2 oz)
    Use bourbon, rye, or blended Scotch, depending on your taste
  • Fresh lemon juice
    30 ml (1 oz)
    Always use freshly squeezed for the brightest flavor
  • Simple syrup
    25 ml (0.75 oz)
    Adjust to taste for sweetness
  • Club soda
    60 ml (2 oz)
    To top; add more if you prefer a lighter drink
  • Ice
    1 cup
    For shaking and serving
Tools Needed
  • Highball (Collins) glass
  • Cocktail shaker
  • Strainer
  • Jigger
  • Bar spoon
  • Citrus juicer (optional but helpful)
Instructions
  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

  2. Add 2 oz whisky, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 0.75 oz simple syrup to the shaker.

  3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to chill and combine.

  4. Strain the mixture into a highball (Collins) glass filled with fresh ice.

  5. Top with 2 oz (or more) of club soda.

  6. Give a gentle stir to integrate the soda.

  7. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Cocktail
  • Balances the boldness of whisky with bright, refreshing citrus
  • Effervescent and easy to sip—perfect for any occasion
  • Simple ingredients, big flavor payoff
  • Customizable to your favorite whisky style (bourbon, rye, or scotch)
  • Visually striking with its tall glass and vibrant garnish
History & Origin

The Collins family of cocktails traces its roots back to 19th-century England with the original Tom Collins, traditionally made with gin, lemon, sugar, and soda. As whisky grew in popularity—especially in America and Scotland—bartenders naturally adapted the recipe to showcase the spirit’s deeper flavors, giving birth to the Whisky Collins. This adaptation maintains the classic formula but swaps gin for whisky, resulting in a richer and more complex flavor profile. Today, the Whisky Collins is celebrated as a timeless, versatile thirst-quencher that bridges the gap between whisky lovers and fans of sparkling cocktails.

Garnish

Garnish with a fresh lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry. The garnish adds a pop of color, a hint of citrus aroma, and a touch of classic cocktail flair.

Nutrition Info

Approximate per serving: 180 calories, 0g fat, 17g carbohydrates, 0g protein. (Varies depending on whisky and syrup used.)

Frequently Asked Questions
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Whiskey SourTom CollinsJohn CollinsScotch & SodaBourbon HighballLynchburg Lemonade

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