Ron Collins
A deceptively simple and profoundly refreshing cocktail that marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Collins family of drinks. It transforms the gin-based Tom Collins into a distinctly Caribbean icon with Cuban-style rum.
11%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
collins
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Ron Collins emerged in the 1930s in Cuba as a natural adaptation of the Tom Collins. During American Prohibition, Cuba became a popular destination for thirsty Americans seeking legal alcohol. Cuban bartenders at legendary establishments like Sloppy Joe's Bar substituted local rum for gin, creating this Caribbean classic. A recipe for 'Rum Collins' appeared on Sloppy Joe's 1932 menu, cementing its place in cocktail history.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a Collins or highball glass by filling it with ice and letting it stand
In a cocktail shaker, combine rum, fresh lime juice, and rich simple syrup
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled
Discard ice from the serving glass and fill with fresh, clear ice
Strain the contents of the shaker into the prepared glass
Top gently with chilled club soda
Garnish with a lime wheel and a high-quality maraschino cherry
Glassware
Served in a tall Collins glass over ice
Garnish
Fresh lime wheel
High-quality dark maraschino cherry
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use Havana Club Añejo 3 Años or similar Cuban-style rum
Always use fresh lime juice, never bottled
Pour soda gently to preserve carbonation
Serve immediately for peak effervescence
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Ron Collins.
Sweeter Version
Increased simple syrup for a less tart drink
Changes
Drier Version
Reduced simple syrup for more rum-forward profile
Changes
Stronger Version
Increased rum for more potent cocktail
Changes
Gold Rum Collins
Uses aged gold rum for richer, more complex flavor
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Bacardi Cocktail
A pre‑Prohibition rum sour—white rum, lime juice, and a blush of grenadine shaken icy cold.
Caipirissima
A rum caipirinha—light rum muddled with fresh lime and sugar over crushed ice for a breezy, tropical refresher.
Cuba Libre
Simple and iconic—light rum, fresh lime, and cola over ice for a crisp, refreshing highball.