As a departure from the previous weeks’ exploration into classic ‘up’ drinks, and in anticipation of the warmer weather ahead, this week we look at a variation on a classic ‘long drink’, the Tom Collins. The Collins is a versatile and refreshing beverage that lends itself to customization. Essentially a Gin Sour topped up with seltzer water, the Collins is often neglected on today’s ostentatious cocktail menus.
The first appearance of a recipe for the Tom Collins dates back to the 1876 edition of Jerry Thomas' "The Bartenders Guide". Thomas listed three variations on the Tom Collins; the Tom Collins Whiskey, the Tom Collins Brandy, and the Tom Collins Gin.
RJH’s Raspberry Collins is a satisfying and refreshing cocktail to be enjoyed before a meal or while relaxing on a warm spring evening. As with all RJH recipes, only good quality ingredients will yield an impeccable cocktail.
This recipe calls for a couple of ingredients not usually found on the common home-bar; Chambord and raspberry coulis. Chambord is that liquor in the ornate orb-shaped bottle that you always saw on the top shelf of the bar and never really knew what it was for. It is a delicate black raspberry liquor from France and is generally available in good liquor stores. Raspberry coulis, also known as puree, is often available in the frozen food section of your supermarket and can be defrosted to order.
On with the show. Fill a clean steel or glass cocktail shaker with fresh ice cubes. Add two measures of good quality gin, one measure of freshly squeezed lemon juice, half a measure of simple syrup (also known as sirop de gomme), half a measure of Chambord and half a measure of fresh raspberry puree. Tanqueray is the preferred gin for this recipe as its robust flavor can stand up to the flavors of the other ingredients. Commercial sweet and sour mix should be avoided at all costs.
Shake the ingredients vigorously. Have a sly taste to make sure the ratio of ingredients is to your taste, then strain over fresh ice into a tall Collins glass. Top up the glass with chilled club soda or carbonated water. Garnish with a twist of lemon and a fresh raspberry.
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