If you’re craving something crisp, bubbly, and easy to make at home, the John Collins cocktail recipe is a solid choice. It mixes whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and soda for a clean balance of sweet and tart. You can think of it as a whiskey twist on the Tom Collins, where bourbon replaces gin and gives the drink a little more body while keeping that light, fizzy feel.
This drink goes all the way back to the 19th century and comes from the classic Collins family that started in England. There’s also a fun story tied to it. Some people link the drink to the old “Tom Collins” prank that made its way through London and later New York, which helped inspire cocktails named after the joke.
Below, you’ll find what actually goes into a proper John Collins, how to make it without overthinking it, and a few easy ways to adjust the flavor to match what you like. You’ll also get some helpful tips to keep everything balanced, plus a few other whiskey drinks that are worth mixing next.
What's in a John Collins Cocktail?
A John Collins is simple and refreshing. It’s just whiskey, lemon, and soda mixed the right way.
Ingredients Notes and Substitutions
- Bourbon whiskey - Start with bourbon you actually enjoy drinking. A smoother bourbon gives you a mellow drink, while a bolder one adds more bite. If you like spice, rye works well. Blended whiskey keeps things softer and lighter.
- Simple syrup - This keeps the sweetness even from start to finish. Plain sugar does not dissolve well in cold drinks and can sink to the bottom. For homemade syrup, mix equal parts sugar and water, heat until dissolved, then let it cool. If you want a thicker feel, use more sugar.
- Fresh lemon juice - Fresh lemon juice makes a big difference. Bottled juice tastes flat and can throw off the balance. Fresh lemons add a clean, bright kick that cuts through the whiskey.
- Club soda - Always use chilled club soda. Cold soda holds its bubbles longer and keeps the drink crisp and refreshing. A good-quality soda helps the whole drink feel lighter.
Equipment You’ll Need
You only need a few basic tools to make a John Collins at home.
- Collins glass
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger
- Strainer
If you plan to make cocktails often, a stainless steel bar tool set is a smart choice. It keeps everything in one place and makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable.
How to Make a John Collins Cocktail
Start by grabbing your shaker and filling it with ice. Pour in bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. This is the base that gives the drink its clean, balanced flavor.
Shake it well until the shaker feels cold in your hands. That chill helps keep the drink crisp. Make sure you only shake before adding soda so you do not knock out the bubbles.
Strain the mix into a tall Collins glass filled with fresh ice. This keeps the drink cold and gives it that classic look.
Slowly top it with club soda for a light, fizzy finish. Pouring along the side of the glass helps the bubbles last longer.
Finish it off with a lemon slice and a cherry. It adds a little color and a fresh citrus smell right before your first sip.
If you want, give it one gentle stir with a bar spoon, then it’s ready to drink.
For exact measurements and ratios, check the recipe card just below.
Tips and Tricks to Make the Best John Collins Cocktail
- Use fresh lemon juice every time
Bottled juice tastes flat and takes away that bright, fresh bite. Fresh lemons give the drink the crisp kick it needs. - Adjust the simple syrup to your taste
A small change makes a big difference. Use a little less if you like it more tart. Add a touch more if you want it slightly sweeter. - Pour the club soda slowly
Let it run down the side of the glass. This keeps the bubbles lively and helps the drink stay balanced. Flat soda dulls the whole thing. - Pick the right whiskey
Whiskey sets the tone. Spicy rye adds more bite. Smooth bourbon keeps the drink mellow and easy to sip. - Chill your glass first
A cold glass keeps the drink sharp and refreshing from the first sip to the last. It also helps all the flavors stay together better.
John Collins Recipe Variations
If you like the classic John Collins, it’s easy to switch things up without overthinking it. Changing the main spirit gives you a new drink while keeping that light, refreshing feel.
- Tom Collins
Uses gin instead of whiskey. It’s light, crisp, and slightly floral. - Vodka Collins
Made with vodka for a clean, smooth drink that really lets the lemon shine. - Pedro Collins
Uses rum for a warmer flavor with a hint of sweetness and a tropical vibe. - Tequila Collins
Tequila adds an earthy edge with bright citrus notes. - Keep the classic base
No matter which spirit you use, the lemon juice, soda, and sugar stay the same. That’s what makes Collins drinks so easy to mix. - Add seasonal flavors
You can tweak the drink based on the time of year. Try rosemary syrup during cooler months, or muddle fresh berries in summer for extra color and freshness. - Change the soda
Flavored soda like grapefruit or cucumber adds a nice lift. You can also use homemade soda like light basil or ginger for a simple upgrade.
More Whiskey Cocktails to Try
Once you’ve got the John Collins down, it’s fun to try a few other easy whiskey drinks.
If you want more ideas on what pairs well with whiskey, check out this guide to great mixers that work well with whiskey. And if bourbon is more your thing, this list of classic and modern bourbon drink ideas is worth a look.
Mix them your way. Switch up the whiskey, tweak the sweetness, and see what tastes best to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a Tom Collins and a John Collins?
The difference comes down to the spirit. A Tom Collins uses gin, while a John Collins is made with whiskey, usually bourbon or rye. Both use lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda, which is why they taste similar and often get mixed up in older recipes.
Where did the John Collins cocktail originate?
The John Collins traces back to 19th-century London. It is often linked to Limmer’s Hotel, where a drink served by a headwaiter named John Collins became well known. Over time, bartenders started using whiskey instead of gin, which shaped the version we drink today.
What does a John Collins taste like?
A John Collins tastes bright, crisp, and well balanced. The lemon adds a fresh tang, the syrup smooths it out, and the whiskey brings light caramel notes. The soda keeps it refreshing and easy to sip.
How strong is a John Collins?
A John Collins is moderate in strength, usually around 10-12% ABV. The soda lightens the drink, making it easier to drink than stronger cocktails like an Old Fashioned. If you want it stronger, use less soda or a higher proof whiskey.
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