Tom Collins Recipe: Gin, Lemon and Soda
A Tom Collins combines gin, lemon, sugar and soda in a tall glass over ice. Our house recipe uses 50 ml gin, 30 ml lemon juice, 20 ml simple syrup and 50–70 ml soda. Add the soda last and stir gently.
Ingredients for one Tom Collins
- 50 ml gin: Old Tom for that traditional style, or London Dry for a drier gin profile
- 30 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 20 ml simple syrup, made with equal weights of sugar and water
- 50–70 ml chilled soda water
- Ice cubes and a lemon slice
How to make it
- Pour the gin, lemon juice and syrup into a Collins or highball glass.
- Add plenty of ice and stir to chill and combine.
- Top with the cold soda and give it a gentle stir from the bottom.
- Garnish with lemon and serve straight away.
For the syrup, dissolve 50 g sugar in 50 g water and let it cool. Taste and adjust the syrup to suit your gin and lemons; a sweeter gin may need less. Use a glass with room for both the ingredients and ice.
Tom Collins questions
What is the difference between Tom and John Collins?
The IBA specifies Old Tom gin for a Tom Collins. Names vary between recipes; the gin style affects the result. Our house quantities are listed above.
Can I use tonic instead of soda?
Tonic adds sweetness and bitterness, so it changes the drink. Use plain soda for this recipe. For a tonic-based option, try our Gin & Tonic recipe.
Was it named after a prank?
The 1874 Tom Collins hoax is one popular naming story. The cocktail's origins remain disputed; the prank is not proof of its invention.
Choose a tall glass using our glassware guide, then explore the Tom Collins collection.
