Tom Collins

Simple syrup, lemon juice, gin, a single sugar cube, and a lemon slice are shaken vigorously over ice to make this classic cocktail. The bartender described it to me as a “fancy vodka lemonade.”

EXPERIENCE: The Tom Collins looks like a lightly-tinted lemonade, especially with the lemon wedge garnishing the edge. The drink isn’t too strong, but it’s certainly on the bitter end of the spectrum. The lemon compliments the tartness of the gin without becoming overpowering.

ADVICE: Take your time with this drink, enjoy it. Drag out the last dredges of summer sipping this all day. It’s the kind of drink you could nurse as the afternoon fades to evening and night.