Ron Collins
The Ron Collins is an elegant and straightforward highball that swaps the traditional gin of a Tom Collins for rum. This simple substitution creates a drink with a slightly sweeter and more tropical profile, blending the character of rum with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice. Topped with effervescent soda water, it's a supremely refreshing drink, perfect for warm weather or any casual occasion.
Preparation
Preparation time: 3 minutes
Preparation time
Difficulty
Drink Classification
The Ron Collins is classified as a classic cocktail and a long drink. It belongs to the highball family of drinks, which are characterized by a spirit base topped with a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer, served in a tall glass. This drink is a direct variation of the classic Tom Collins.
Serving
This is a tall, cold long drink served over ice in a Collins or Highball glass. It has a moderate alcohol content, making it a refreshing and easy-sipping cocktail.
Serving size
Approximately 240-300 ml / 8-10 oz
Alcohol content
Approximately 10-15% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Collins glass
Glass treatment
None
Backstory
As a direct variation of the Tom Collins, which originated in the late 19th century, the Ron Collins' history is tied to the evolution of classic cocktails. Bartenders have long experimented with substituting base spirits in popular recipes. The name 'Ron Collins' likely emerged in the early to mid-20th century as a convenient and catchy way to order this rum-based version.
Origin
The Ron Collins is an American cocktail variation, likely emerging in the early to mid-20th century. It is a direct descendant of the Tom Collins, which was first recorded in writing in 1876 by Jerry Thomas. The rum version logically followed the popularity of both rum and the original Collins formula.
Ron Collins
The name 'Ron Collins' is a clever play on words, as 'Ron' is Spanish for rum, clearly indicating it as a rum-based version of the classic Collins. It is also commonly referred to more directly as a 'Rum Collins'. This distinguishes it from its gin-based progenitor, the Tom Collins.
Original name
Ron Collins
Alternative names
- Rum Collins
- Tom Collins with Rum
Characteristics overview
The Ron Collins is a visually simple yet inviting drink, characterized by its pale, slightly cloudy appearance and lively carbonation. Its flavor profile is a clean balance of sweet and sour, with a refreshing citrus aroma and a crisp, light texture on the palate.
Flavor
Citrusy, Sweet, Tart, Tropical, Light
Aroma
Lemon, Sugarcane, Light Rum
Taste balance
Sweet, Sour
Aftertaste
Clean, Refreshing, Short
Fizziness
Bubbly, Effervescent
Color appearance
Pale yellow, Slightly cloudy
Texture
Light, Crisp, Watery
Seasonality
Summery, Refreshing
Flavor intensity & Experience
This drink has a balanced flavor intensity, where the zesty sourness and sweetness are prominent, complemented by a light alcohol presence from the rum. The high carbonation level makes it feel exceptionally light and refreshing.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation
Ingredients
To make a Ron Collins, you will need light rum as the base spirit, freshly squeezed lemon juice for acidity, and simple syrup for sweetness. The drink is lengthened and made effervescent with a top-up of chilled soda water.
- Light Rum60 ml / 2 ozA good quality white or lightly aged gold rum works best.
- Lemon Juice30 ml / 1 ozFreshly squeezed is essential for the best flavor.
- Simple Syrup15 ml / 0.5 ozAdjust to taste. Use a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water.
- Soda WaterTop up (approx. 120 ml / 4 oz)Chilled soda water or club soda is ideal.
Ice type
- Cubed
Mixing equipments
You'll need a cocktail shaker to combine and chill the rum, lemon, and syrup, along with a strainer. A jigger is recommended for accurate measurements to ensure a balanced drink.
- Cocktail shaker for chilling and mixing
- Strainer for separating ice
- Jigger for measuring ingredients
Instructions
The Ron Collins is prepared by shaking rum, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, then straining it into an ice-filled Collins glass. The drink is finished by topping it with soda water and adding a simple garnish.
1. Fill a Collins glass with fresh ice cubes and set aside to chill.
2. Add the rum, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
3. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker is well-chilled.
4. Strain the mixture from the shaker into the ice-filled Collins glass.
5. Top the glass with chilled soda water, leaving a little space at the top.
6. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry before serving.
Garnishing
A classic Collins garnish of a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry adds a pop of color and visual appeal. The garnish complements the drink's simple, clean character.
- Lemon wheel dropped into the drink or placed on the rim
- Maraschino cherry dropped into the drink
Dietary Information
This cocktail is naturally free from most common allergens, including dairy, eggs, gluten, and nuts. It is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly
Nutrition information
This cocktail is relatively low in calories, with most coming from the rum and the sugar in the simple syrup. The carbohydrate and sugar content is moderate and can be reduced by using less syrup.
Calories
Averagely 170 kcal / 711 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 12g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 11g
Sugar level
Occasions
With its light and refreshing character, the Ron Collins is perfectly suited for warm-weather events like summer parties, barbecues, and relaxing by the pool. It's also an excellent choice for a casual happy hour or as a simple aperitif before a meal.
- Summer Parties
- Poolside Lounging
- Happy Hour
- Barbecue
- Casual Get-togethers
Pairing suggestions
The Ron Collins pairs well with light and savory foods that complement its citrusy, tropical profile. It's an excellent companion for seafood dishes, grilled meats, and classic Cuban fare. Salty and crispy snacks also work wonderfully to contrast the drink's sweet and sour notes.
- Light Seafood (e.g., ceviche, grilled shrimp)
- Cuban Sandwiches
- Grilled Chicken or Pork
- Salty Snacks (e.g., plantain chips, nuts)
Ron Collins: The Tropical Twist on a Classic Highball
The Ron Collins is the rum-lover's perfect answer to the classic Tom Collins. It's a crisp, refreshing highball that swaps gin for light or gold rum, creating a slightly sweeter, more tropical profile that is incredibly easy to drink. Being simple to make with common ingredients, it's the ideal cocktail for a hot summer day or a casual gathering. The balanced interplay of quality rum, zesty lemon, and bubbly soda water makes for a timeless and satisfying long drink.
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