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Cocktails

Tom Collins

Served in a Collins Glass

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic8% ABV6 ingredientsexcellent recipe
239 cal8% ABV1.46 US std20.5g sugar26.1g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Moderateshaken drink

Why: 6 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker

Best for: Citrus Based Food, Herbal Food, Seafood Dinner

Ingredients & Tools

BaseCitrusSweetenerMixerGarnish
  • 2 ozGinBase
  • 1 ozLemon JuiceCitrus
  • 1 tsp superfineSugarSweetener
  • 3 ozClub SodaMixer
  • 1Maraschino CherryGarnish
  • 1OrangeCitrus
Tools:shaker

How to Make It

ShakeStirStrain
  1. In a shaker half-filled with ice cubes, combine the gin, lemon juice, and sugar.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
  2. Shake well.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
  3. Strain into a collins glass alomst filled with ice cubes.StrainStraining removes ice chips, pulp or solids for a cleaner texture.
  4. Add the club soda.
  5. Stir and garnish with the cherry and the orange slice.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.

Best For

Seafood DinnerSummer

Food Pairings

Citrus Based FoodHerbal FoodSeafood

Diet & Lifestyle

Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian

Make it your way

Adjust this drink

Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.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.Make it simplerTry drinks with three ingredients or fewer.

Swap notes

Base spiritGin swaps are risky — botanicals vary wildly. London Dry is drier and more juniper-forward; Old Tom is sweeter; sloe gin adds fruit. If you swap, stay within the same style and taste as you go.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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Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Tom Collins?
The Tom Collins is a cocktail made with 6 ingredients, traditionally served in a Collins Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 8.0%. A standard serving contains approximately 239 calories.
What does a Tom Collins taste like?
Tom 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 Tom Collins?
Tom Collins pairs well with Citrus Based Food, Herbal Food, Seafood. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
How strong is a Tom Collins?
The Tom Collins has an ABV of approximately 8.0%. That's approximately 1.46 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 239 calories, 20.5g sugar, 26.1g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a Tom Collins typically served?
Tom 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 Tom Collins?
If you enjoy Tom 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 Tom Collins at home?
Yes. The Tom 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 Tom 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.