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
195
Calories
Collins
Glass
Flavor Profile
Flavor Journey
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
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).
Tom Collins
Classic gin, lemon, sugar and soda highball—effervescent, citrusy, and named for its Old Tom gin roots.
John Collins
The bourbon take on the 19th‑century gin punch from Limmer's Old House—spirit, lemon, sugar and sparkling water built tall and fizzy.
Juan Collins
Tequila Collins—blanco tequila, lemon, and sugar lengthened with soda over ice.
Cucumber Collins
A garden Collins—gin, lemon, and syrup shaken with muddled cucumber and lengthened with soda.
Other Variations
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
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Appletini
A neon-green vodka martini flavored with sour apple schnapps – sweet, tart, and playful.
Brandy Collins
Brandy, lemon, and sugar lengthened with sparkling soda—an elegant, effervescent Collins variation.
Colonel Collins
A bourbon Collins—whiskey, lemon, and sugar lengthened with soda over ice.