The Tom Collins is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time, delighting drinkers with its refreshing and crisp flavor. Named after a humorous hoax from the 1870s, this cocktail is a staple in bars around the world. With its simple yet elegant combination of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water, it's the perfect drink for any occasion, especially during the warmer months. Here’s how you can make a perfect Tom Collins at home.

Ingredients

To make a Tom Collins, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 ounces gin: A good quality London Dry gin works best, but feel free to experiment with different types.
• 1 ounce fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for the best flavor.
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup: You can make simple syrup by dissolving equal parts sugar and water.
• Club soda: To top off the drink.
• Ice: Plenty of ice to keep the cocktail cool and refreshing.
• Lemon wheel and maraschino cherry: For garnish.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker: For mixing the ingredients.
• Strainer: To strain the cocktail into the glass.
• Highball glass: The traditional glass for serving a Tom Collins.
• Jigger: For measuring your ingredients.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Simple Syrup: If you don't already have simple syrup on hand, make it by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Allow it to cool before using.

2. Mix the Ingredients: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake well until the mixture is well-chilled, about 10-15 seconds.

3. Strain into Glass: Fill a highball glass with ice cubes. Strain the contents of the shaker into the glass.

4. Top with Club Soda: Add club soda to fill the glass. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish your Tom Collins with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Tom Collins

• Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of a Tom Collins means that the quality of your ingredients really matters. Use fresh lemon juice, good quality gin, and homemade simple syrup for the best results.
• Chill Your Glass: For an extra refreshing drink, chill your highball glass in the freezer before using it.
• Experiment: While the classic recipe is hard to beat, don’t be afraid to experiment with different gins or add a splash of another fruit juice for a twist on the traditional flavor.

Conclusion

The Tom Collins is a timeless cocktail that combines simplicity with sophistication. Whether you're hosting a summer party or just relaxing at home, this refreshing drink is sure to impress. By following these steps and using high-quality ingredients, you can create the perfect Tom Collins every time. Cheers!