Vodka Collins (Joe Collins)
A crystalline, effervescent highball representing the mid-20th century ascendance of vodka, offering a cleaner, more neutral canvas than the gin-based Tom Collins.
11%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
collins
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Vodka Collins (also known as Joe Collins) is a direct descendant of the gin-based Tom Collins, adapting the classic formula for the vodka boom of the 1950s-60s. First documented in Ted Saucier's 1962 "Bottoms Up" and credited to Edward Majeski of United Press International, it emerged during vodka's meteoric rise in American cocktail culture. The drink embodies the post-war desire for clean, approachable cocktails that were sophisticated yet refreshing, helping cement vodka's status as America's most consumed spirit.”
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 for at least 15 minutes
Combine vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker
Fill shaker three-quarters full with ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds
Fill the chilled glass with fresh, large ice cubes
Strain the shaken mixture over the ice
Gently pour chilled club soda to fill
Garnish with a lemon wheel and maraschino cherry
Glassware
Served in a tall Collins or highball glass
Garnish
Thin, vibrant yellow wheel
High-quality, dark 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 only freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness
High-quality club soda with strong carbonation is essential
Shake the base ingredients to achieve proper chilling and dilution
Avoid over-stirring after adding soda to preserve carbonation
Store vodka in freezer for optimal serving temperature
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Vodka Collins (Joe Collins).
Sweeter Collins
Increases simple syrup for a more lemonade-like profile.
Changes
Tarter Collins
Increases lemon juice for a sharper, more acidic drink.
Changes
Stronger Collins
Increases vodka for a more spirit-forward drink.
Changes
Tom Collins
The original gin-based version.
Changes
John Collins
Traditional whiskey-based Collins.
Changes
Juan Collins
Tequila-based variation.
Changes
Cucumber Collins
Modern variation with muddled cucumber.
Changes
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Rose Kennedy
A minimalist highball—vodka and crisp club soda kissed with a pale splash of cranberry and a lemon wedge.