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A Tom Collins is one of those drinks that has a fantastically simple base recipe but can be customized in a multitude of ways. The basic recipe is as follows:

2 ounces of premium gin (Bombay Sapphire makes a truly terrific Collins)
1 ounce of fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon of superfine bar sugar
3 ounces of club soda
1 lemon slice

Fill a shaker half-full with ice. Combine gin, lemon, and sugar in the shaker and shake extremely well. Strain into a Collins glass that is almost completely filled with ice. Add the club soda and stir gently. Garnish with the lemon slice.

One of my favorite ways to get creative with a Collins is to add a splash of schnapps to make a "flavored Tom." Strawberry, apple, apricot, or raspberry put a fruity twist on a Tom Collins. You can also substitute Sprite or raspberry ginger-ale for the club soda and sugar. For an extra special raspberry-flavored Tom Collins, muddle a few fresh raspberries in the bottom of the shaker before combining the gin and the lemon juice, and add half an ounce of Chambord. Garnishes are another great way to put an new spin on a classic drink. Instead of the standard lemon slice, try an orange slice, maraschino cherry, frozen or fresh raspberries on a cocktail stick, or a combination of fruits. With such easy and delicious recipes as these, you will never be tempted by the prepared, substandard "Tom Collins mix" at the store ever again.

Learn more about this author, Erin K. Wiedemer.
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