I’m a huge fan of gin cocktails. When I walk into any new bar or restaurant, I immediately take a look at their specialty cocktails, and if they offer one, the first thing I try is their signature gin drink. Many modern craft cocktails are direct descendants of the Tom Collins. Made with the world’s most popular spirit, gin, alongside citrus, sweetness, and plenty of fizz, it’s one for the ages. Here is the best Tom Collins recipe you will ever find. Enjoy responsibly, of course.

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The Tom Collins Cocktail

• 2 1/2 oz gin
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz orange juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• club soda
• maraschino cherry
• orange slices

Get out your shaker and fill with several large ice cubes. Pour in the gin, citrus juices, and sugar. Shake it. The old wives’ tales about “bruising” the gin are a myth. Shake as much as you want.

Pull out a collins or other cocktail glass, and fill with ice. Strain the liquid contents from the shaker into the glass, and top with club soda. Garnish with the cherry and orange slices.

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Many traditional Tom Collins recipes do not call for orange juice, but the added subtle sweetness will help open up the botanical flavors of any gin. If you are planning to host a gin tasting, basing each pour on this cocktail is the best way to go. Remember, gin was made to be mixed, so to get the full effect you need to blend with other flavors. Floral notes in gin range from juniper, to rose, to cucumber, to pepper, and each of these flavors will combine beautifully with the standard ingredients of a Tom Collins. Enjoy!