A Tom Collins is far more than just a gin cocktail—it's the perfect balance of freshness, lightness, and timeless style. For over 150 years, it's been one of the world's most popular long drinks. Those who love citrus notes and don't like gin too heavy will find the Tom Collins the ideal blend. And with the THORALM Dry Gin This classic receives a modern, characterful touch.
What is a Tom Collins?
The Tom Collins is a classic gin cocktail that falls into the category of "fizzes" – sparkling cocktails made with soda water. Its base is incredibly simple: gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda. Yet it's precisely this reduction to the essentials that makes it so charming.
Refreshing, clear and with a pleasant citrus note, the Tom Collins is a convincing aperitif, sundowner or simply as a relaxing accompaniment to a summer evening.
The story behind Tom Collins
The origin of Tom Collins dates back to the 19th century. It was first mentioned in writing in 1876 in “Bartender's Guide” by Jerry Thomas, the forefather of American cocktail culture.
At that time, “Old Tom Gin” – a sweeter version of today’s London Dry Gin – was popular. The name Tom Collins is probably a combination of this gin style and the English surname Collins, which was commonly used at the time. Some even suspect that the drink is named after a fictitious man called "Tom Collins", who was born in 1874 in a kind of joke story haunted American bars.
The ideal preparation with THORALM Dry Gin
Ingredients for one glass:
5 cl THORALM Dry Gin
3 cl fresh lemon juice
2 cl sugar syrup
Soda water (top up to taste)
ice cubes
Lemon slice & cocktail cherry for decoration (optional)
Preparation (approx. 3 minutes):
Fill a long drink glass with ice cubes.
Add THORALM Dry Gin, lemon juice and sugar syrup.
Stir well.
Fill with cold soda water.
Garnish with a lemon slice or cherry – done.
Tip: If possible, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and homemade sugar syrup (a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water, boil briefly, and let cool). This creates a particularly delicate flavor.
Why THORALM Dry Gin is perfect for the Tom Collins
Our THORALM Dry Gin It impresses with its clear juniper note, subtle citrus accents, and a fresh, balanced interplay of flavors. Exactly what a Tom Collins needs to shine. The botanicals harmonize perfectly with lemon and soda – without dominating, but with character.
When you enjoy a Tom Collins with THORALM, you experience a modern twist on the classic that will stay with you forever.
Nutritional values and calories
A Tom Collins is not only light in taste – it also stays within limits in terms of calories:
Calories (per glass): approx. 170–190 kcal
alcohol content: approx. 10–12 Vol.-% (depending on the amount of soda water)
Sugar: depends on the amount and type of syrup used – with homemade syrup this can be easily controlled.
Sensory analysis: Taste & aroma in detail
A perfectly mixed Tom Collins offers a balanced and complex taste experience. From the very first sip, the tangy freshness of lemon comes to the fore – vibrant, bright, and invigorating. The gin then unfolds its complex aromas: herbs, juniper, subtle floral notes, and a delicate spiciness that can vary depending on the type of gin. THORALM Dry Gin Particularly clear citrus and herbal accents come to the fore here. The finish is carried by the sparkling soda water – refreshingly light yet aromatic. The result is a drink that is simultaneously stimulating, elegant, and uncomplicated – perfect for discerning connoisseurs.
When is a Tom Collins appropriate?
As a refreshing aperitif
At summer garden parties
After work on the terrace
At a stylish dinner as a light cocktail
In winter, refined with a sprig of rosemary or thyme
Variations & ideas for modification
Fancy something new? Here are a few creative variations:
Elderflower Collins: Replace sugar syrup with elderflower syrup
Cucumber Collins: Shake some cucumber slices or put them in the glass
Berry Collins: Spice up with raspberry puree or blackberries
Herb Collins: Mix fresh herbs such as basil or thyme in the shaker
Our conclusion
The Tom Collins is the epitome of a simple yet stylish cocktail. Quickly mixed, pleasantly light, and versatile. And with the THORALM Dry Gin Take this drink to a new level – puristic, modern, special.
Try it. You'll taste the difference.
Photo: Brent Hofacker / stock.adobe.com
