The popular cocktail, Tom Collins, has a peculiar spelling when it comes to its pronunciation. In IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet), it is transcribed as /tɑm ˈkɑlɪnz/. The first syllable is pronounced as "tahm" with a short "a" sound, rather than "tom" as one might think. The second syllable is pronounced with a long "a" sound, like "cal" in "calm". The final syllable is pronounced as "inz". Despite the unique spelling, the Tom Collins remains a beloved classic drink, made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water.
Tom Collins is a classic cocktail that originated in the United States in the 19th century. It is typically made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and carbonated water. The drink is known for its refreshing and citrusy flavor profile.
The Tom Collins cocktail is often served in a tall glass filled with ice cubes. Firstly, a measure of gin is poured into the glass. Then, fresh lemon juice is added to provide a tart and tangy note. Sugar or simple syrup is incorporated to balance the acidity and add a touch of sweetness. Finally, the glass is topped up with carbonated water, such as club soda or sparkling water, to give the drink a fizzy quality.
The Tom Collins cocktail is often garnished with a slice of lemon or orange and a cherry, adding a visual appeal to the beverage. It is typically considered a daytime or summer cocktail due to its light and refreshing nature. The drink is served cold and is highly regarded for its ability to quench thirst and cool down on hot days.
Overall, the Tom Collins is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. It continues to be enjoyed for its crisp and citrusy taste, making it a popular choice for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a refreshing thirst-quencher.
The word "Tom Collins" primarily refers to a classic gin-based cocktail, but it also traces back to a fictional character by the same name. The cocktail itself, also known as a "Collins", is believed to have been created sometime during the mid-19th century. The exact etymology of the name "Tom Collins" is not entirely clear, but it is widely believed to have originated from a popular prank that swept through New York City in 1874, known as the "Tom Collins Hoax".
The prank involved spreading rumors about a fictional person named Tom Collins, who was said to be insulting people and spreading false information about them. It would start with someone saying that they overheard someone named Tom Collins making derogatory comments about the people present, and this would ignite a hunt to find and confront the fictitious Tom Collins. It became a social game, with people eagerly participating in trying to locate this elusive character.