Drink Recipe:: Tom Collins

Ah, the Tom Collins. This classic cocktail is one of my favorites, and for good reason. It's a refreshing and simple drink that's perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. But before we get into the recipe, let's dive into the history and ingredients of the Tom Collins.

Origin Story: The Tom Collins is believed to have originated in the mid-19th century in the United States. It's said to have been named after a popular prank where people would ask their friends if they knew Tom Collins, and then proceed to describe a made-up person who was talking smack about them at the local bar. The friend would then go to the bar to confront Tom Collins, only to find out that he didn't actually exist. Clever, right?

Ingredients: To make a Tom Collins, you'll need:

• 2 oz Hendricks Gin
• 1 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Club soda
• Ice
• Lemon wedge, for garnish

Recipe: Now that you have the ingredients, here's how you make it:

1. Fill a Collins glass with ice.
2. Add the Hendricks Gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the glass.
3. Top with club soda and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

That's it! The Tom Collins is a simple yet delicious drink that's perfect for any occasion.

Who Makes the Best Tom Collins Today? There are countless bars and restaurants around the world that serve up a mean Tom Collins, but one bartender who's particularly well-known for his take on the drink is Jim Meehan. Meehan is the owner of PDT (Please Don't Tell), a speakeasy-style bar in New York City. His Tom Collins recipe includes a few extra ingredients, such as orange bitters and grapefruit oil, which really take the drink to the next level.

Here's Jim Meehan's recipe:

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Club soda
• Grapefruit oil
• Ice
• Lemon wedge, for garnish

1. Fill a Collins glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and orange bitters to the glass.
3. Top with club soda and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a few drops of grapefruit oil.

Personal Opinion: Personally, I prefer the classic recipe for a Tom Collins. There's something about the simplicity of the drink that I find really appealing. However, I do appreciate the extra complexity that Jim Meehan's recipe adds, and I would definitely be willing to give it a try. As for pairings, I think a Tom Collins would go really well with some salty snacks, like chips and dip or a charcuterie board.

If you're a fan of gin, citrus, and fizzy drinks, then you can't go wrong with a Tom Collins. Give it a try and let me know what you think!