The Tom Collins cocktail recipe has stood the test of time, not just because of its history, but due to its refreshing nature. It’s been a staple in many bartending books since the late 1800s, including the famous “The Bartender’s Guide” by Jerry Thomas. Over the years, its popularity has seen ebbs and flows, but it’s always remained a mainstay in classic cocktail bars.
The rise of craft cocktails in the 21st century saw a resurgence in its popularity, as both bartenders and patrons took a renewed interest in classic drinks. Using artisanal gins, like Muckross Wild Irish Gin, breathes new life into the Tom Collins cocktail recipe, updating its flavour profile for contemporary palates.
One of the reasons the Tom Collins cocktail maintains its presence in bars and homes alike is its simplicity. It doesn’t require obscure ingredients or specialized equipment. If you have gin, lemons, sugar, and soda water, you’re ready to go.
Furthermore, the base Tom Collins recipe lends itself to variations. Some replace gin with other spirits, infuse the simple syrup with herbs or fruits, or add other fruit juices. This flexibility allows both professional mixologists and home enthusiasts to get creative.
The Tom Collins is more than just a drink; it’s a piece of cocktail folklore. Its refreshing nature, combined with its storied past, ensures that it remains a favourite for many. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or someone just starting in the world of mixology, the Tom Collins is a reliable and delightful choice. You can see our Tom Collins ingredients in the table below.
Tom Collins Ingredients
- 60ml Muckross Wild Irish Gin
- 30ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 15ml simple syrup
- Club soda to top (about 90ml)
- 2oz Muckross Wild Irish Gin
- 1oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 0.5oz simple syrup
- Club soda to top (about 3oz)
- 4 shots Muckross Wild Irish Gin
- 2 shots of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 shot of simple syrup
- Club soda to top (about 6 shots)
- 6cl Muckross Wild Irish Gin
- 3cl freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1.5cl simple syrup
- Club soda to top (about 9cl)
How to make a Tom Collins Cocktail
- Fill a cocktail shaker with the Muckross Wild Irish Gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Add ice and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice.
- Top up the glass with club soda, we recommend Poachers Soda Water.
- Gently stir to combine the ingredients.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon and a cherry.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Tom Collins!
Tip
You can modify the recipe to suit your taste preference by adjusting the amount of simple syrup and lemon juice based on your taste preference. If you like a slightly sweeter drink, you can add more simple syrup. Conversely, if you like it more tart, increase the amount of lemon juice. Don’t be shy and feel free to experiment with the Tom Collins ingredients and garnishes.
Sláinte is táinte!
