Tom Collins: The Quintessential Summer Refresher

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The Tom Collins is a cocktail that epitomizes the essence of summer. With its refreshing combination of gin, lemon juice, and soda water, it's the perfect antidote to a hot day. This classic drink is both simple to make and delightful to sip, making it a perennial favorite at garden parties and barbecues.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 ounces gin
• 3/4 ounce lemon juice
• 3/4 ounce simple syrup
• Top off with soda water
• Garnish with a brandied cherry
• Garnish with an orange wheel

Directions

• Pour the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.
• Add ice and shake until chilled.
• Strain over ice into a Collins glass.
• Top off with soda water.
• Garnish with a brandied cherry and an orange wheel.

Origin

The Tom Collins owes its name to a bit of 19th-century mischief known as "The Great Tom Collins Hoax" of 1874³. The prank involved telling people that a man named Tom Collins was speaking ill of them, leading them on a wild goose chase to find this non-existent troublemaker. The cocktail itself predates the hoax, with roots possibly stretching back to a similar drink called the John Collins, named after a headwaiter at a London hotel in the 1860s.

History

The first recorded recipe for the Tom Collins appears in the 1876 edition of Jerry Thomas' "The Bartender's Guide"³. Since then, it has become one of the most iconic and enduring cocktails, a staple of American mixology. The Tom Collins is often associated with the leisurely pace of summer socializing, offering a refreshing escape from the heat.

Conclusion

The Tom Collins is more than just a cocktail; it's a symbol of summertime leisure and the art of relaxation. Whether enjoyed in the shade of a porch or by the poolside, the Tom Collins remains a timeless choice for those seeking refreshment and a touch of elegance.

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Savor the simplicity and sparkle of the Tom Collins, your perfect summer companion! 🍋🥂