What is the Best Gin for a Tom Collins? A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Gin

The Tom Collins: A Classic Cocktail and the Art of Gin Selection

The Tom Collins is a timeless cocktail that has captured the hearts of gin enthusiasts for over a century. Its refreshing blend of gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and club soda has made it a staple in bars and homes worldwide. While the recipe may seem simple, the choice of gin plays a crucial role in elevating this classic cocktail to new heights.

What is a Tom Collins?

The Tom Collins is a gin-based cocktail that originated in the 19th century. It is believed to have been named after a bartender named John Collins, who served the drink at his bar in London. The Tom Collins is characterized by its tall, slender glass, filled with ice, gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and topped with club soda. The drink is garnished with a lemon wedge and a maraschino cherry.

Choosing the Right Gin

The selection of gin for a Tom Collins is of utmost importance. The gin’s flavor profile should complement the citrusy and refreshing nature of the cocktail without overpowering it. A good Tom Collins gin should possess a balance of botanicals, with a prominent juniper presence and a hint of citrus.

London Dry Gins

London Dry gins are the traditional choice for a Tom Collins. These gins are known for their crisp, clean flavor and pronounced juniper notes. Some popular London Dry gins that work well in a Tom Collins include:

• Beefeater Gin: A classic London Dry gin with a smooth, balanced flavor.
• Tanqueray Gin: A citrus-forward gin with a slightly spicy finish.
• Bombay Sapphire Gin: A complex gin with a floral and herbal character.

New Western or American Gins

New Western or American-style gins have gained popularity in recent years for their innovative flavor profiles. These gins often incorporate unique botanicals, resulting in a wide range of flavors. Some New Western or American gins that can add a modern twist to a Tom Collins include:

• Hendrick’s Gin: A Scottish gin infused with rose and cucumber, offering a floral and refreshing taste.
• St. George Terroir Gin: A California gin made with local botanicals, resulting in a woodsy and piney flavor.
• Aviation Gin: An American gin with a floral and citrusy character, perfect for a Tom Collins with a twist.

Citrus-Infused Gins

Citrus-infused gins can enhance the citrusy notes of a Tom Collins, creating a more vibrant and refreshing cocktail. Some citrus-infused gins to consider include:

• Barr Hill Tom Cat Gin: A Vermont gin infused with raw honey and grapefruit, offering a unique and flavorful twist.
• Martin Miller’s Westbourne Strength Gin: An English gin infused with grapefruit and lime, resulting in a zesty and aromatic gin.
• Tanqueray Rangpur Gin: A gin infused with Rangpur limes, known for its tangy and slightly spicy flavor.

Other Considerations

When choosing a gin for a Tom Collins, consider the following factors:

• Personal taste preferences: Ultimately, the best gin for a Tom Collins is the one that suits your personal taste.
• Budget: Gins can range in price from affordable to high-end. Choose a gin that fits your budget without compromising on quality.
• Availability: Some gins may not be readily available in all areas. Check your local liquor store or online retailers for availability.

Recipes and Tips

Here is a classic Tom Collins recipe and variations, along with recommended gin choices for each:

Classic Tom Collins Recipe:

• 2 ounces London Dry gin (such as Beefeater or Tanqueray)
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 0.5 ounce simple syrup
• Club soda
• Lemon wedge, for garnish
• Maraschino cherry, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the glass.
3. Top with club soda.
4. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a maraschino cherry.

Variations:

• Citrus-Infused Tom Collins: Use a citrus-infused gin, such as Barr Hill Tom Cat Gin or Martin Miller’s Westbourne Strength Gin, for a more vibrant citrus flavor.
• New Western Tom Collins: Use a New Western or American-style gin, such as Hendrick’s Gin or St. George Terroir Gin, for a more complex and flavorful Tom Collins.
• Vodka Tom Collins: Substitute gin with vodka for a lighter and more neutral flavor.

Tips:

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Make your simple syrup by dissolving equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over low heat.
• Chill the gin and lemon juice before making the cocktail for a more refreshing drink.
• Serve the Tom Collins immediately.

Conclusion

The Tom Collins is a versatile cocktail that allows for experimentation and personal preferences. By choosing the right gin and following the tips provided, you can create a delicious and refreshing Tom Collins that will impress your guests and elevate your cocktail experience.

References:

• 10 Best Gins For A Tom Collins – Tasting Table
• Tom Collins (Gin Cocktail) – The Perfect Recipe – Gin Observer
• Tom Collins Recipe – NYT Cooking

FAQs

What is the best gin for a Tom Collins?

The best gin for a Tom Collins is one that has a balanced flavor profile, with a prominent juniper presence and a hint of citrus. London Dry gins are the traditional choice, but New Western or American gins can also be used for a more modern twist.

What are some popular London Dry gins for a Tom Collins?

Some popular London Dry gins that work well in a Tom Collins include Beefeater Gin, Tanqueray Gin, and Bombay Sapphire Gin.

What are some popular New Western or American gins for a Tom Collins?

Some popular New Western or American gins that can be used in a Tom Collins include Hendrick’s Gin, St. George Terroir Gin, and Aviation Gin.

Can I use citrus-infused gin in a Tom Collins?

Yes, citrus-infused gins can be used to enhance the citrusy notes of a Tom Collins. Some popular citrus-infused gins include Barr Hill Tom Cat Gin, Martin Miller’s Westbourne Strength Gin, and Tanqueray Rangpur Gin.

What other factors should I consider when choosing a gin for a Tom Collins?

When choosing a gin for a Tom Collins, you should consider your personal taste preferences, budget, and availability. Some gins may be more expensive than others, and some may not be readily available in all areas.

What is a classic Tom Collins recipe?

A classic Tom Collins recipe includes 2 ounces of London Dry gin, 1 ounce of lemon juice, 0.5 ounce of simple syrup, club soda, a lemon wedge for garnish, and a maraschino cherry for garnish.

What are some variations of the Tom Collins?

Some variations of the Tom Collins include the Citrus-Infused Tom Collins, which uses a citrus-infused gin, and the New Western Tom Collins, which uses a New Western or American-style gin. You can also make a Vodka Tom Collins by substituting gin with vodka.

What are some tips for making a great Tom Collins?

To make a great Tom Collins, use fresh lemon juice, make your own simple syrup, chill the gin and lemon juice before making the cocktail, and serve the Tom Collins immediately.