Cocktail College

The Tom Collins

Apr 17, 2025
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ANECDOTE

Tom Collins Prank Origin Story

  • The Tom Collins name originated from a 1870s prank where friends were sent hunting for a fake slanderer named Tom Collins.
  • Bartenders capitalized on the joke by serving a John Collins drink renamed to Tom Collins, blending myth and cocktail history.
ADVICE

Clarify and Enhance Ingredients

  • Clarify lemon juice and soda water for a crystal-clear, lemony Tom Collins.
  • Consider adding herbal essences to soda for a unique, refreshing twist.
INSIGHT

Bitters Can Overshadow Gin

  • Bitters are optional in the Tom Collins to preserve gin's natural botanical character.
  • Adding bitters may hijack the drink’s delicate balance of gin, lemon, and sugar.
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