Few cocktails embody the refreshing, zesty vibe of summer quite like a John Collins. This drink is a close relative to the Tom Collins, but with a crucial difference in the base spirit. While the Tom Collins uses gin, the John Collins calls for bourbon or whiskey, giving it a richer, deeper flavor profile while still retaining the citrusy refreshment that makes the Collins family of cocktails so beloved.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the history, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions for crafting the perfect John Collins, whether you’re a seasoned bartender or just learning the ropes.
A Brief History of the John Collins
The history of the Collins family of cocktails dates back to the 19th century. Named after John Collins, a head waiter at Limmer’s Hotel in London, the drink originally used a type of gin known as “Old Tom” gin, which was sweeter than the gin we know today. However, as the cocktail gained popularity, variations emerged, including the switch to whiskey or bourbon to create what we now know as the John Collins.
Over time, the John Collins became popular across bars in both Europe and the United States. The combination of whiskey’s warmth with the tang of lemon and the effervescence of soda water made it an instant hit for those who enjoyed a slightly stronger, yet refreshing, summer cocktail.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make a classic John Collins, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 oz Bourbon or Whiskey: The star of the show. The choice of bourbon or whiskey will impact the flavor profile, with bourbon giving it a smoother, slightly sweeter finish and whiskey lending a more robust, spicier character.
- 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a tangy bite that cuts through the richness of the whiskey, adding a refreshing citrus zing.
- ¾ oz Simple Syrup: Simple syrup is a combination of equal parts sugar and water. It adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the acidity of the lemon and the strength of the spirit.
- Soda Water: The fizz from the soda water lightens up the cocktail, making it effervescent and easy to sip.
- Ice: Essential to chill the drink without diluting the flavors too quickly.
- Lemon Wheel and Cherry (for garnish): Optional, but a lemon wheel and maraschino cherry add a pop of color and a little extra flair to the presentation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a John Collins
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of preparing a perfect John Collins. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prepare Your Glass
Start by choosing a tall glass, such as a highball or Collins glass. Fill the glass with ice cubes. Not only does the ice keep the drink cold, but it also allows for slow dilution as the cocktail is sipped, balancing out the flavors over time.
Step 2: Add Bourbon or Whiskey
Pour 2 oz of bourbon or whiskey over the ice. If you’re new to the John Collins, start with a bourbon for a smooth introduction. As you become more familiar, experiment with different whiskeys to explore various flavor notes.
Step 3: Add Lemon Juice
Next, add 1 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the glass. The key here is freshness—using pre-packaged lemon juice won’t deliver the same bright, zesty flavor. Fresh lemons are your best friend in this cocktail.
Step 4: Sweeten the Deal with Simple Syrup
Add ¾ oz of simple syrup to the mix. You can easily make simple syrup at home by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. Heat the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved, then let it cool before using. For those who prefer a sweeter cocktail, you can adjust the amount of simple syrup to taste.
Step 5: Stir
Using a bar spoon, gently stir the ingredients to combine. Stirring helps to blend the lemon juice, whiskey, and simple syrup together, ensuring that every sip is balanced.
Step 6: Top with Soda Water
Top off the cocktail with soda water, leaving a bit of room at the top of the glass. The soda water adds a refreshing fizz to the drink and lightens up the overall feel of the cocktail. The effervescence of the soda water is one of the defining characteristics of a John Collins.
Step 7: Garnish
For that classic cocktail presentation, garnish your John Collins with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also provide an extra touch of citrus and sweetness as you sip the drink.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Your John Collins is now ready to serve! Sip it slowly and savor the harmonious blend of whiskey, citrus, sweetness, and bubbles. It’s perfect for a sunny afternoon or a laid-back evening with friends.
Variations and Tips for Making the Perfect John Collins
While the classic John Collins recipe is a timeless crowd-pleaser, there’s always room for personalization and experimentation. Here are some variations and tips to try:
Switch up the Whiskey: Try different types of whiskey, such as rye or a peaty Scotch, for a unique twist on the flavor. Rye whiskey will add a spicier kick, while a smoky Scotch will give it a more robust, earthy profile.
Experiment with Fruit: Try adding muddled fruit like strawberries or blackberries for a fruity variation of the John Collins. The added fruit flavors pair beautifully with the whiskey and lemon juice.
Play with the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of simple syrup. Conversely, if you have a sweet tooth, increase the simple syrup slightly, but be careful not to overpower the other flavors.
Soda Water Alternatives: For a more intense flavor, you can swap out soda water for flavored sparkling water, such as lemon or lime. This will boost the citrus notes in the cocktail, making it even more refreshing.
Final Thoughts
The John Collins is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that offers the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spirituous flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, enjoying a quiet evening at home, or looking for a versatile whiskey-based drink, the John Collins will never disappoint.
Give this classic cocktail a try the next time you’re in the mood for something refreshing and bold. And remember, once you master the basics, you can always make the drink your own with a few creative twists. Cheers!
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