Tequila Collins recipe
A crisp, agave-forward evolution of the classic sour highball.
Method: Stir ·
Glass: Highball glass ·
Time: 5 min ·
Difficulty: Advanced ·
Family: Modern Classics
Ingredients
- 2 oz Blanco Tequila (100% agave)
- 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice (Strained)
- 0.5 oz Simple Syrup (1:1 sugar to water)
- 3 oz Club Soda (Chilled, to top)
- 1 slice Lemon Wheel (For garnish)
How to make a Tequila Collins
- Combine blanco tequila, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker tin with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 10 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture.
- Strain the contents into a tall Collins glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
- Top with chilled club soda and gently stir from bottom to top to integrate.
- Garnish with a fresh lemon wheel on the rim.
Garnish
a fresh lemon wheel on the rim
Pro tip
Measure carefully, keep the dilution controlled, and serve Tequila Collins as soon as it is cold and balanced.
History of the Tequila Collins
While the original gin-based John Collins and Tom Collins date back to mid-19th-century London and New York recipe guides, swapping base spirits into the Collins template became a staple of modern cocktail culture. The Tequila Collins emerged as mixologists embraced blanco tequila as a versatile, vibrant alternative for refreshing highballs.
Flavour profile
Citrus, Boozy, Sweet, Herbal
Variations
- Agave Collins — Substitute simple syrup with light agave nectar and garnish with a lime wheel.
- Spicy Tequila Collins — Muddle two thin slices of fresh jalapeño in the shaker before adding the remaining ingredients.
- Hibiscus Tequila Collins — Infuse the blanco tequila with dried hibiscus flowers for a tart, ruby-hued variation.
Practise making the Tequila Collins in the free Virtual Bar game.