John Collins
The John Collins is a refreshing twist on the classic whiskey sour, combining the smooth warmth of bourbon with zesty lemon and a splash of bubbly club soda. Topped with a cherry and a slice of orange, it's the perfect drink to sip on a sunny afternoon!
Ingredients
- •2 oz Bourbon
- •1 oz Lemon juice
- •1 tsp superfine Sugar
- •3 oz Club soda
- •1 Maraschino cherry
- •1 Orange
Instructions
- 1
Pour all ingredients directly into highball glass filled with ice
- 2
Stir gently
- 3
Garnish
- 4
Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
Pro Tip
“For an extra kick, try adding a splash of your favorite bitters to the John Collins. It adds depth and complexity to the drink, enhancing its sweet and sour notes.”
The Story Behind the John Collins
The John Collins cocktail is a delightful variation of the classic Tom Collins, believed to have originated in the 19th century. Named after a popular headwaiter at Limmer's Old House in London, this drink has evolved over time, with bourbon replacing the original gin to create a richer, warmer flavor profile. Its refreshing blend of sweet, sour, and fizzy elements makes it a timeless favorite.
What Pairs Well
Food Pairings
- 🍽️BBQ ribs
The smoky, savory flavors of BBQ ribs complement the sweet and sour notes of the John Collins perfectly.
- 🍽️Cheese platter
A variety of cheeses enhances the fruity and tangy elements of the cocktail, making for a sophisticated pairing.
- 🍽️Grilled shrimp skewers
The light, fresh taste of grilled shrimp pairs beautifully with the citrusy zing of the John Collins.
Perfect For
- Summer picnic
The refreshing and fruity nature of the John Collins makes it an ideal companion for a sunny day outdoors.
- Backyard BBQ
This cocktail's sweet and sour profile is a hit at any BBQ, cutting through the richness of grilled meats.
- Jazz night
Sip on a John Collins while enjoying smooth jazz for a classy, relaxing evening.
- Celebrating a promotion
Toast to success with a John Collins, its effervescence matching the celebratory mood.
Fun Facts
- ✨
The John Collins is often confused with the Tom Collins, but the key difference is the base spirit: bourbon for John, gin for Tom.
- ✨
The cocktail's name is believed to have originated from a hoax in the 19th century known as 'The Great Tom Collins Hoax.'
- ✨
The addition of club soda gives the John Collins its signature fizz, making it a refreshing choice for warm weather.
Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!