📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 14%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 16g
Prep time 2 minutes
Imagine you’re about to sip a cool, fizzy drink that dances on your tongue with a sweet and sour melody. That’s a John Collins, a cocktail that mixes the brightness of lemon, the kick of gin, and the fizz of soda to delight your taste buds. Together, let’s explore the history, tastes, and tips that make this drink special. ⬇️
History
The John Collins cocktail has been refreshing people since the 1800s. It was named after a head waiter who worked in London, and it has a rich story that matches its delicious taste.
- The cocktail was first mixed at Limmer’s Old House in London.
- Originally made with gin, it’s a cousin to the Tom Collins.
- It’s believed the name comes from a popular song of the era.
The taste of a John Collins?
A John Collins tastes like a bright summer day in a glass. It’s a fizzy mix of sweet and tart that tickles your nose and refreshes your palate.
I love the John Collins because it feels like a sparkle of joy in every sip.
Interesting facts about John Collins
- It’s often confused with the Tom Collins, but they’re not the same.
- The drink became popular in the United States around the 1850s.
- It’s known for being both a classy and approachable cocktail.
Ingredients
- Gin: 2 oz (60ml)
- Lemon Juice: 1 oz (30ml)
- Simple Syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Club Soda: to top up
- Ice Cubes: as needed
- Lemon Wheel: for garnish
- Maraschino Cherry: for garnish
Collins glass is the best choice for serving a John Collins; its tall shape showcases the drink’s effervescence. Alternatively, a highball glass can also be used, offering a slightly more casual presentation.
Recipe. How to make John Collins
- Add 2 oz of gin into a Collins glass filled with ice.
- Pour in 1 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Include 0.5 oz of simple syrup to sweeten.
- Stir the mixture gently to combine the flavors.
- Top up with club soda for a refreshing fizz.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry.
Even a delightful cocktail like the John Collins should be enjoyed in moderation. It contains sugar and calories, but you can swap in natural sweeteners or less syrup for a healthier twist. Remember, the gin’s botanicals can be uplifting!
Food Pairings
Certain foods can elevate the John Collins experience by complementing its refreshing zest. Here are some top picks:
Grilled Chicken
The cocktail’s citrus notes make it a perfect match for the savory flavors of grilled chicken.
Seafood
Light seafood dishes like shrimp cocktail harmonize beautifully with the John Collins’s bright profile.
Salads
A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette dressing echoes the cocktail’s crisp, tart elements.
I really dig the John Collins! It’s like a burst of sunshine in a glass, perfect for any day.
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Bartender Advice
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Chill the glass beforehand to keep the drink extra cool.
- Adjust the sweetness by tinkering with the simple syrup amount.
Now, let’s venture beyond the classic. Up next, we’ll explore how you can put a personal twist on your John Collins and discover variations that might just become your new favorites.
What you could change in John Collins
- Swap gin for bourbon to create a whiskey Collins for a richer taste.
- Experiment with different flavored syrups like elderflower for a floral hint.
- Add a splash of fruit juice for an extra layer of flavor.
John Collins Variations
Whiskey Collins
- Ingredients: Replace gin with whiskey.
- Recipe: Follow the standard John Collins recipe, using whiskey instead of gin.
Summer Berry Collins
- Ingredients: Add a handful of muddled summer berries.
- Recipe: Muddle the berries in the glass before adding the other ingredients.
Elderflower Collins
- Ingredients: Use elderflower syrup in place of simple syrup.
- Recipe: Combine with gin and lemon juice, then top with soda water.
For a non-alcoholic version, simply mix lemon juice with simple syrup and top with soda. Garnish with a lemon wheel for that classic John Collins look.
Q&A
Can I make a John Collins without alcohol?
Absolutely! Just leave the gin out and you’ve got yourself a refreshing mocktail.
What’s the difference between a John and a Tom Collins?
It’s all in the gin! A Tom Collins typically uses Old Tom gin, which is slightly sweeter, while a John Collins is made with London dry gin.
Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but fresh is best. Bottled juice lacks the zesty punch of fresh lemons.
Can I make a big batch of John Collins for a party?
Sure thing! Mix everything but the soda in a pitcher. Add the soda when you’re ready to serve.
How can I make my John Collins less sweet?
Easy, just reduce the amount of simple syrup, or try a sugar-free alternative.
Any tips for garnishing my John Collins?
Keep it classic with a lemon wheel and a cherry, or get creative with fresh herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic twist.
