Everyone’s heard of Tom Collins, the classic fizzy cocktail refreshing Aussies for generations. Its origins are debated, though most say it started in the U.S. in the late 1800s. Let’s give it a cheeky twist: modern, booze-free, but with sparkle!
This non-alcoholic drink is just as refreshing and delicious as the original. It’s got that bright citrus hint, lifted by the smooth notes of Sans Bar Notting Hill Stroll, a premium non-alcoholic spirit, and finished with the crisp, fruity fizz of Vinada Sparkling Chardonnay.
It’s simple to make, light, and totally summer-approved. Grab your Collins glass, top it off with ice, add a slice of lemon for flair, and enjoy a fresh and booze-free take on a classic. Cheers to sunny sips and guilt-free good times!
Ingredients:
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15ml sugar syrup or simple syrup
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25ml fresh lemon juice
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60ml Vinada Sparkling Chardonnay, to top
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Lemon slice, for garnish
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Fresh cherry, for garnish
Method:
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Grab your shaker and pour in the Sans Bar Notting Hill Stroll, sugar or simple syrup, and lemon juice.
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Fill it up with ice and give it a good shake. Of course, you want it chilled and a little frothy.
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Strain that zesty mix into your favourite Collins glass.
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Ditch the boring soda water, top it up with Vinada Sparkling Chardonnay for a bubbly, classy finish.
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Add a few ice cubes if you like it extra cool.
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Pop on a lemon slice and a fresh cherry to garnish, because it’s all about those good vibes and good looks.
Light, citrusy, and absolutely fizzy, this virgin Tom Collins is your sunny-day sip sorted!
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Tom Collins Mocktail
Glass rim glow-up – Give your Collins glass a little glow-up! Rub a lemon slice along the rim and dip it in sugar. For extra fun, try crushed mint sugar for a pop of colour and minty flavour.
Balance the sweetness – The non-alcoholic spirit and sparkling Chardonnay bring their own subtle notes, but taste as you go. Add a splash of sugar syrup if you like it a touch sweeter.
Keep it cool – Freeze a few lemon slices or fresh mint leaves in ice cubes. It keeps your mocktail chilled without watering it down and adds a flavourful and colourful twist.
Garnish goals – A lemon slice, a fresh cherry, or even a sprig of mint takes your mocktail from tasty to totally Instagram-worthy. It’s all about those little finishing touches!
Mix it up your way –Don’t have Vinada Sparkling Chardonnay on hand? No worries! Our collection features the best non-alcoholic sparkling wines, including Champagne and rosé styles. Or just keep things simple with a dash of soda water, sparkling water, or ginger ale. Go on, mix things your way and create your own fun versions of the Tom Collins mocktail, depending on your mood!
Food Pairing Suggestions:
Vegetarian Pairing: Zesty cucumber and citrus quinoa salad.
Meat-Friendly Pairing: Lemon and herb grilled prawns on skewers.
Cheese/Dairy Pairing: Feta and watermelon bites with a sprinkle of mint.
Snack Pairing: Salted pistachios or spiced nuts for that crunchy fix.
Dessert Pairing: Lemon tartlets or key lime mini pies for a citrusy sweet finish.
FAQs
1. What are the ingredients for a classic Tom Collins?
You'll need 50ml gin, 25ml fresh lemon juice, 15ml simple syrup, and soda water to top. Serve over ice in a tall Collins glass with a lemon slice and cherry garnish.
2. Can I make a non-alcoholic Tom Collins?
Absolutely! Simply swap the gin with non-alcoholic gin or a splash of non-alcoholic sparkling wine that’s crisp and fruity enough. Rest, keep all other ingredients the same for a refreshing mocktail.
3. Can I replace soda water with non-alcoholic sparkling wine or champagne?
Yes, and it's a lovely upgrade! Non-alcoholic sparkling wine adds a more elegant, fruity effervescence to your drink. Just adjust the simple syrup slightly, according to your sweetness preferences.
4. What's the difference between a Tom Collins and regular lemonade?
A Tom Collins is basically elevated lemonade with gin's botanical notes, less sugary, and a sophisticated fizz. Think of it as lemonade's more refined, cocktail-party-ready sibling.
5. Is fresh lemon juice really necessary, or can I use bottled?
Fresh lemon juice is definitely worth it! It provides bright, vibrant acidity that bottled versions can't match, making your Tom Collins taste absolutely high-quality.
