Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic8.3% ABV6 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 6 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: BBQ, Chocolate, Seafood Dinner
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusSweetenerMixerGarnish
- 2 ozBourbonBase
- 1 ozLemon JuiceCitrus
- 1 tsp superfineSugarSweetener
- 3 ozClub SodaMixer
- 1Maraschino CherryGarnish
- 1OrangeCitrus
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirGarnishBuild
- Pour all ingredients directly into highball glass filled with ice.BuildBuild steps combine ingredients directly without heavy aeration.
- Stir gently.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Garnish.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
- Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.CitrusLime can replace lemon juice in a pinch but it tastes more floral and slightly sweeter, so the drink will taste different. Reduce any syrup by a small amount if swapping. Orange juice is a softer, less acidic option — use it when you want a rounder, less sharp result.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.BubblesSoda water is neutral and clean — it adds fizz without flavour. Tonic water is bitter and slightly sweet, which changes the balance noticeably. Ginger beer is spiced and punchy; ginger ale is milder and sweeter. These are not interchangeable — pick the one that suits the drink's flavour direction.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a John Collins?
- The John Collins is a cocktail made with 6 ingredients, traditionally served in a Collins Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 8.3%. A standard serving contains approximately 251 calories.
- What does a John Collins taste like?
- John Collins has a flavour profile featuring Citrus, Sugar, Lemon, Sweet. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a John Collins?
- John Collins pairs well with BBQ, Chocolate, Steak. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a John Collins?
- The John Collins has an ABV of approximately 8.3%. That's approximately 1.50 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 251 calories, 20.5g sugar, 26.1g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a John Collins typically served?
- John Collins is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner, Summer. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a John Collins?
- If you enjoy John Collins, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a John Collins at home?
- Yes. The John Collins uses 6 ingredients, making it more involved to prepare at home. You will need a Collins Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of John Collins with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.