There’s some debate about this cocktails origin. According to historians, the Tom Collins is strikingly similar to the gin punches being served in London bars in the 19th century. A barkeep named John Collins named the concoction after himself, but whether or not he invented it is in question. Given that the cocktail was typically made with Old Tom gin, patrons took to requesting Tom rather than John Collinses.

Sometimes simple is best – this one requires no special tools, not even a shaker or strainer.

You will need: 

• 2 parts of London dry gin
• 1 part of freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 part simple syrup
• Soda water to top
• Garnish with a lemon wheel or maraschino cherry

To make:

1. Add the gin, lemon juice and simple syrup to a Collins (tall) glass.
2. Fill with ice, top with soda and stir.
3. Garnish with a lemon wheel and maraschino cherry (optional).