The History of the Collins Cocktail: A Refreshing and Timeless Classic
The Collins Cocktail is one of the oldest and most versatile drinks in the world of cocktails, known for its freshness and perfect balance between acidity, sweetness, and bubbles. Among its most famous variations are the Tom Collins, John Collins, and even modern versions with different alcoholic bases.
In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of the Collins Cocktail, its classic recipe, and the most appreciated variations. Additionally, I’ll share some tips for making it to perfection.
The Origins of the Collins Cocktail
A Story Shrouded in Legend
The origins of the Collins Cocktail are somewhat unclear and fascinating, as there are several theories about its creation. The most popular version links it to a bartender named John Collins, who worked at Limmer’s Hotel in London during the 19th century.
It is said that the cocktail was originally known as the "John Collins," made with gin or genever, lemon juice, sugar, and sparkling water. However, over time, the drink came to be called the Tom Collins, when it began to be made primarily with Old Tom Gin, a slightly sweeter variety of gin compared to the classic one.
The Famous "Tom Collins" Hoax
Another interesting anecdote concerns the "Tom Collins Hoax," a prank that circulated in New York in 1874. The story goes that someone spread rumours about a certain "Tom Collins" who was slandering a person at another bar. When the victim rushed to the bar to confront this mysterious individual, they were met with a general laugh because Tom Collins did not exist.
The success of the hoax led some bartenders to create a cocktail with that name, and soon the "Tom Collins" became popular in American bars.
The Classic Tom Collins Recipe
Ingredients:
- 60 ml of gin (preferably Old Tom Gin)
- 30 ml of lemon juice
- 15 ml of simple syrup
- Sparkling water (soda)
- Ice
- Lemon slice and maraschino cherry for garnish
Method:
1. Pour the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
3. Strain the cocktail into a Collins glass (tall and cylindrical) filled with ice.
4. Top up with sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice and a maraschino cherry.
Famous Variations of the Collins
The Collins is a family of cocktails, and there are many variations that use different alcoholic bases or add unique ingredients.
1. John Collins
- Made with whiskey instead of gin.
- One of the oldest of the Collins family, it has a more robust character.
2. Vodka Collins
- Replaces gin with vodka, offering a cleaner, more neutral flavour.
- Perfect for those who prefer a less aromatic taste.
3. Tequila Collins
- Uses white tequila instead of gin, combined with lime juice instead of lemon.
- Ideal for lovers of intense, fresh flavours.
4. Rum Collins
- Replaces gin with white rum, creating a mix with a tropical character.
- Perfect for summer days and those who love the scent of rum.
Tips for a Perfect Collins
- Use Quality Gin: If you want to stick with tradition, opt for Old Tom Gin, but a London Dry Gin will work as well.
- High-Quality Purees: Adding fresh fruit purees like strawberry or peach can give your cocktail a modern and unique twist.
- Good Quality Sparkling Water: Choose a light soda that’s not too fizzy to maintain the freshness without overpowering the flavours.
The Collins in the Modern Era:
The Collins has stood the test of time thanks to its versatility and ability to adapt to different tastes and trends. Today, bartenders around the world experiment with new variations, using exotic ingredients and fresh fruits to give a contemporary twist to the cocktail.
In trendy bars, you can find Collins made with herbal infusions, flavoured syrups, or even artisanal gins with unique botanical notes.
Fun Facts about the Collins Cocktail
- The Collins is one of the few cocktails that takes its name from the glass in which it’s served: the "Collins glass."
- In the 1920s, the Collins became a symbol of elegance and sophistication in bars in New York and London.
- The Collins family is closely related to the Fizzy Sour category of cocktails, which also includes the Gin Fizz.
- During the American Prohibition, the Collins continued to be popular due to its ability to mask the strong smell of bootleg alcohol.
Conclusion
The Collins Cocktail is a timeless classic that continues to impress with its freshness and simplicity. Whether it’s a Tom Collins, John Collins, or a modern variation, the key to success lies in using high-quality ingredients and maintaining the balance between sweetness, acidity, and bubbles.
The Collins is not just a drink; it’s a true experience that blends tradition and innovation, offering moments of pure pleasure and refreshment with every sip.