Tom Collins

Lore & Background

The earliest publication of any Collins recipe appears in Harry Johnson's 1882 book, which includes a Tom Collins calling for Old Tom gin and a John Collins calling for Holland Gin. Cocktail historian David Wondrich noted earlier mentions of similar drinks resembling gin punches served at London clubs like the Garrick in the early 19th century. In August 1891, British physician Sir Morell Mackenzie wrote an article claiming England as the drink's origin and attributing it to a person named John Collins, but Punch magazine immediately disputed this, noting the song he quoted was actually 'Jim Collins' and that he inaccurately characterized it.

Reader's Guide

The Tom Collins holds significance as a classic cocktail that exemplifies the Collins family of drinks, distinguished from a Gin Fizz by its higher proportion of lemon juice, creating a 'gin and sparkling lemonade.' Its name may have been influenced by the Great Tom Collins Hoax of 1874, a widespread practical joke in which people were sent on a false search for a nonexistent Tom Collins. The drink's recipe evolved over time, with early versions specifying Old Tom gin, which likely led to the name change from John Collins. Despite confusion over its origins, the Tom Collins became a staple in American bars and was noted by H. L. Mencken as an example of American inventiveness in drink naming. Its legacy endures as a refreshing, simple cocktail that remains popular worldwide.

Did You Know?

• The earliest published Tom Collins recipe is from Harry Johnson's 1882 book, calling for Old Tom gin.
• The Tom Collins is a variant of the John Collins, which dates to at least the 1860s.
• The Great Tom Collins Hoax of 1874 involved people being tricked into searching for a nonexistent Tom Collins.
• British physician Sir Morell Mackenzie incorrectly claimed in 1891 that England originated the drink, a claim immediately disputed by Punch magazine.