Introduction
The John Collins is a cocktail steeped in history, offering a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and effervescent flavors. Its origins trace back to the 19th century, named after a popular waiter at Limmer's Hotel in London. Traditionally made with gin, this classic drink takes on a unique character when crafted with genever, a maltier cousin of gin that lends a richer, more complex flavor profile. The result is a refreshing, slightly sweet cocktail that has stood the test of time.
Genever, often dubbed the 'grandfather of gin,' adds a distinctive depth to the John Collins, setting it apart from its gin-based counterpart, the Tom Collins. This Dutch spirit, with its malty undertones and botanical notes, complements the bright acidity of fresh lemon juice and the subtle sweetness of confectioners' sugar, all brought together with a splash of club soda for a fizzy finish.
Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or a curious beginner, crafting a John Collins with genever is a rewarding experience that brings a touch of history and sophistication to your home bar. It's a cocktail that not only refreshes but also invites you to explore the intriguing world of spirits.
Ingredients
To create a perfect John Collins, you'll need a few key ingredients that bring out the best in this classic cocktail. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 oz Genever: Opt for a quality genever to achieve that malty, complex flavor that distinguishes this drink from a gin-based Collins.
- 1 oz Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for a vibrant, tangy kick that balances the cocktail's sweetness.
- 1 tsp Confectioners’ Sugar: Confectioners' sugar dissolves easily and adds a delicate sweetness without graininess.
- 0 Club Soda: Club soda provides the refreshing fizz that makes this cocktail so delightful.
- Lemon Slice: A lemon slice adds a touch of elegance and a hint of additional citrus aroma.
Instructions
Crafting a John Collins is straightforward yet rewarding. Follow these steps to mix a bartender-quality cocktail at home:
- Combine genever, lemon juice, and sugar in a collins glass, stir until sugar dissolves.
- Add ice cubes, top with club soda, and garnish with a lemon slice.
Tips
- Chill your Collins glass beforehand to keep the cocktail refreshingly cold.
- Stir the lemon juice and sugar thoroughly to ensure the sugar is completely dissolved before adding ice and club soda.
- Experiment with different brands of genever to find the one that best suits your taste preferences.
- For an extra touch, consider adding a dash of bitters to enhance the complexity of flavors.
Conclusion
The John Collins is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cocktails, offering a harmonious blend of flavors that's both refreshing and satisfying. By using genever, you can experience a richer, maltier version that stands out from the traditional gin-based Collins. Whether you're enjoying it on a warm afternoon or serving it at a gathering, this cocktail is sure to impress.
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John Collins recipe adapted from The 12 Bottle Bar by David Solmonson and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson.
