Add 60ml gin, 30ml fresh lemon juice, and 15ml simple syrup to a cocktail shaker half-filled with ice.
Shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds until well chilled.
Strain into a collins glass almost filled with fresh ice cubes.
Top with 90ml chilled club soda and give one gentle stir to integrate.
Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice on the rim. Serve immediately.
The Tom Collins is believed to have originated in 1870s London and was popularised by bartender John Collins of Limmer's Hotel - Old Tom gin was traditionally used, lending a slightly sweeter, less dry character than modern London Dry expressions. Try swapping standard gin for an Old Tom style to taste the cocktail as it was originally intended.
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