If you love the elegance of a classic Tom Collins but want to give it a sophisticated tea-inspired twist, the Earl Grey Collins is what you have been waiting for this season.
This refreshing highball blends the botanical depth of gin with the bright, citrusy notes of Earl Grey tea, enhanced by fresh lemon juice and a touch of simple syrup.
Because the recipe uses brewed tea (chilled, of course), it’s light and refreshing, making it a perfect sipper for both cold and warm months—or for those moments when you want a drink that’s both flavorful and not overly boozy, as it’s easy to skip the gin and just enjoy the tea.
Twist Ideas
- Herbal Touch: Swap the soda water for lavender or chamomile sparkling water for a floral lift.
- Citrus Swap: Replace lemon juice with grapefruit juice for a softer, more fragrant citrus profile.
- Sweet Upgrade: Use honey syrup instead of simple syrup for a deeper, more nuanced sweetness, but remember that the honey flavor will compete with the Earl Grey.
- Tea Blend: Try blending Earl Grey with another black tea like Darjeeling for added complexity.
Earl Grey Collins Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz gin
- 2 oz Earl Grey tea (chilled)
- 0.5 oz simple syrup (or Earl Grey–infused simple syrup for a stronger flavor)
- 0.5 oz lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Splash of soda water
- Garnish: lemon wheel or sprig of thyme/lavender
Instructions
- Add gin, Earl Grey tea, simple syrup, and lemon juice to a tall glass.
- Fill the glass with ice and stir to mix.
- Top with a splash of soda water.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel or a sprig of thyme or lavender.
Mocktail Version
Skip the gin and use an extra 1.5 oz of Earl Grey tea, or replace it with a non-alcoholic gin alternative. You’ll still get the lovely tea-and-lemon flavor, plus the refreshing fizz from the soda water.
