Recipe
- Fill a Collins glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup over the ice.
- Stir well to mix the ingredients.
- Top up with club soda.
- Optionally, add a dash of bitters or a splash of orange liqueur.
- Garnish with a lemon slice and a maraschino cherry, and consider adding cucumber or ginger slices for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the John Collins with a long straw, which is ideal for sipping on a warm day or during a relaxed evening.
Explore: John Collins Variations
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon
- 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
- Club soda
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice and maraschino cherry for garnish
Optional Enhancements:
- Dash of Angostura bitters for added depth
- Splash of orange liqueur for a citrusy twist
- Thinly sliced cucumber or ginger for a refreshing or spicy kick
Bartending Tips
Creating the ultimate John Collins Cocktail is about more than just following the recipe. Here are some expert mixology tips:
Mixing Technique
Fresh Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright, authentic flavor.
Quality Gin: Choose a high-quality gin that complements the citrus notes.
Proper Shaking: Shake the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice to ensure a well-chilled mix.
Garnishing and Presentation
Lemon Slice Garnish: A thin lemon slice adds a touch of elegance and a burst of color.
Club Soda: Top with chilled club soda to add a refreshing fizz.
Tall Glassware: Serve in a tall Collins glass to highlight the cocktail’s classic look.
Food Pairing
John Collins cocktails pair well with light and savory foods such as seafood, salads, grilled chicken, and appetizers like smoked salmon, cheese board, or bruschetta. The citrusy and refreshing profile complements these dishes perfectly.
Grilled Dishes: The smoky notes of grilled chicken or veggies pair nicely with the refreshing, zesty cocktail.
Cheese Boards: A diverse cheese board offers a variety of flavors that can stand up to and complement the robust Bourbon.
Spicy Foods: The effervescence and acidity of the cocktail balance out the spicy flavors brilliantly.
FAQ
How is a John Collins different from a Tom Collins?
The primary difference is the type of gin used. A John Collins traditionally uses Old Tom gin, which is sweeter, while a Tom Collins typically uses London dry gin.
What is the origin of the John Collins cocktail?
The John Collins is believed to have originated in the 19th century and is named after a bartender who worked at Limmer’s Old House in London.
How should a John Collins be served?
A John Collins is served in a tall glass (Collins glass) filled with ice. It is garnished with a lemon slice and a cherry.
Can I use different types of gin for a John Collins?
Yes, while Old Tom gin is traditional, you can use other types of gin such as London dry gin or even a flavored gin for a different twist.
What are some variations of the John Collins cocktail?
Variations include using different spirits such as whiskey (for a Whiskey Collins), rum (for a Rum Collins), or vodka (for a Vodka Collins). You can also add a splash of bitters for extra complexity.
Is the John Collins a strong cocktail?
The John Collins is a light to moderate cocktail in terms of strength. The club soda dilutes the alcohol content, making it a refreshing drink.
Can a John Collins be made non-alcoholic?
Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic John Collins by using a non-alcoholic gin alternative or simply replacing the gin with additional club soda or a mix of soda water and tonic water.
What is the best type of lemon juice for a John Collins?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the best option for a John Collins, as it provides a bright and natural citrus flavor.
