Rosemary Tom Collins

A fragrant Tom Collins with gin, fresh lemon, rosemary syrup, and lively soda.

Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Makes 1
Level: Easy

Behind the recipe

The story behind the pour

The Tom Collins is cherished for its simplicity and refreshing citrus profile, which also makes it a natural canvas for creative variations. Fresh rosemary brings warmth and a hint of pine to the bright acidity of lemon, adding depth without losing the classic’s easy-drinking character. This elegant twist is ideal for warm evenings or gatherings with friends.

Method

Make it

01
In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, rosemary, and lemon peels. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 5 minutes. Remove the rosemary and lemon peels, strain, and let the syrup cool for 30 minutes.
02
Rosemary Tom Collins Recipe
03
Fill a rock glass with ice cubes. Add the rosemary simple syrup, lemon juice, and gin. Stir gently and top with club soda. Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a lemon twist.

Cocktail notes

Herbs as seasoning for a drink

The Tom Collins is a simple canvas. Rosemary gives it warmth and pine while lemon keeps the highball bright and refreshing.

Infuse the syrup

Simmer water and sugar with a rosemary sprig and broad pieces of lemon peel for five minutes. Remove the botanicals and cool the syrup for thirty minutes before mixing.

Season, do not dominate

Rosemary should add the kind of depth an herb brings to food, not cover the gin. Measuring the syrup and using fresh lemon preserves that balance.

Finish with bubbles

Build over ice and add club soda last. A gentle stir keeps the drink lively while distributing the herbal syrup through the glass.