The Tom Collins cocktail has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century. It was first documented in writing in 1876 by Jerry Thomas, who is widely regarded as the “father of American mixology.” This classic cocktail is a refreshing blend of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and carbonated water, often served over ice in a Collins glass.
The origins of the Tom Collins are believed to lie in London, where it was known as the “John Collins” in the early 19th century. The story goes that a man named John Collins, who was a waiter at Limmer's Hotel, created the drink using Old Tom gin. Old Tom gin was a sweeter style of gin that was popular at the time, and it added a unique flavor profile to the cocktail.
As the story goes, John Collins moved to New York City and brought his cocktail recipe with him. However, in America, the name “John Collins” was already associated with a different mixed drink made with whiskey. So, to differentiate his creation, the drink became known as the “Tom Collins.”
The Tom Collins quickly gained popularity in the United States, especially during the late 19th century. It became a staple in bars and saloons, and its refreshing and citrusy taste made it a favored choice among patrons. The cocktail's popularity was also fueled by the rise of gin as a popular spirit during this time.
One interesting aspect of the Tom Collins is its association with a popular prank that became known as the “Tom Collins Hoax.” In the late 19th century, a joke would be played on unsuspecting individuals where they would be informed that a certain person named Tom Collins was talking negatively about them. The pranksters would describe Tom Collins as a fictional character and encourage the person to seek out and confront him. This led to humorous and sometimes chaotic situations, with people running around looking for the elusive Tom Collins. It is believed that the cocktail's name was used in this prank as a way to popularize it even further.
While the Tom Collins enjoyed widespread popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it gradually fell out of favor during the Prohibition era when the production and consumption of alcoholic beverages were banned in the United States. However, the cocktail made a comeback in the mid-20th century with the revival of classic cocktails and the reemergence of gin as a favored spirit.
Today, the Tom Collins remains a beloved cocktail that is enjoyed by many. Its simple yet refreshing combination of ingredients makes it a perfect choice for those looking for a light and citrusy drink. Whether sipped on a hot summer day or enjoyed as a classic cocktail at a bar, the Tom Collins continues to be a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted mixed drinks.