A John Collins is like summer in a glass—bright, fizzy, and perfectly refreshing. This classic cocktail brings together the tangy zing of lemon, the smooth kick of gin, a touch of sweetness, and a bubbly soda finish. It’s one of those drinks that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to whip up at home. I’ve made this countless times, and it never fails to impress. Let me walk you through how to make it, tweak it, and even pair it with food for the ultimate experience.
John Collins
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for one glass of John Collins:
- 2 oz (60 ml) gin
- 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (you can adjust this to taste)
- Club soda (enough to top off the glass)
- Ice cubes
- 1 lemon wheel (for garnish)
- 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)
You’ll also need a Collins glass or a highball glass, whichever you have on hand.
Prep Time & Servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Serves: 1
Method
- Fill your glass with ice cubes to keep everything nice and cold.
- Pour in 2 oz (60 ml) gin.
- Add 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice—squeeze it yourself for the best flavor.
- Stir in 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup for just the right amount of sweetness.
- Top off with club soda, leaving some room at the top to avoid spills.
- Give everything a gentle stir to mix it up without losing the fizz.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry for that classic look.
And that’s it! You’ve got yourself a sparkling, lemony cocktail that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Helpful Tips
- Fresh is best: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
- Chill your glass: Pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before making the drink. It keeps everything extra refreshing.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer your drinks less sweet, start with less simple syrup and add more if needed.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
This cocktail is best made fresh, but you can prep the base (gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup) in advance. Mix those ingredients in a pitcher and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, just pour over ice and top with club soda.
Serving Suggestions
A John Collins pairs beautifully with light, summery dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled chicken: The citrusy cocktail cuts through the savory flavors.
- Seafood: Shrimp cocktail or grilled fish are perfect matches.
- Fresh salads: A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette mirrors the drink’s zesty notes.
Variations to Try
Want to mix it up? Here are a few fun twists:
Whiskey Collins
- Replace gin with whiskey for a richer, deeper flavor.
Summer Berry Collins
- Muddle a handful of fresh berries (like raspberries or blackberries) in the glass before adding the other ingredients.
Elderflower Collins
- Swap out the simple syrup for elderflower syrup for a floral, fragrant twist.
Non-Alcoholic Collins
- Skip the gin, and you’ll have a refreshing, fizzy lemonade. Perfect for anyone skipping alcohol!
Common Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but fresh lemon juice is what makes this drink shine.
What’s the difference between a John Collins and a Tom Collins?
It’s all about the gin. A Tom Collins uses Old Tom gin, which is sweeter, while a John Collins uses London dry gin.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Mix the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a pitcher. Add club soda just before serving to keep it fizzy.
How can I make it less sweet?
Cut back on the simple syrup or try a sugar-free alternative.
Any fun garnish ideas?
Stick with the classic lemon wheel and cherry, or try something fresh like a sprig of mint or a thin cucumber ribbon for an unexpected twist.
Final Thoughts
A John Collins is one of those cocktails that’s effortlessly elegant yet totally approachable. Whether you’re sipping it solo, serving it to guests, or experimenting with fun variations, it’s a drink that always delivers. Pair it with a light meal, or just enjoy it on a sunny afternoon—it’s like a little burst of sunshine in every sip. Cheers!
