📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Bourbon
Alcohol 14%
Calories 210 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 16g
Prep time 4 minutes
Imagine making a drink that’s like a cool breeze on a hot summer’s day. That’s the Fred Collins Fizz! It’s a mix of bourbon, lemon, sugar, and soda that dances on your tongue and leaves you wanting more. Let’s dive into the story and secrets of this delightful drink together! ⬇️
History
The Fred Collins Fizz was born in the late 1800s, a time when fizzy drinks were all the rage. Originally from the Southern United States, this cocktail quickly became a favorite for its refreshing taste. It’s named after its creator, Fred Collins, who knew a thing or two about beating the heat with a cool drink.
- The cocktail was first mentioned in print in 1885.
- It’s believed that the “fizz” part of the name comes from the sound the soda makes when it’s added.
- The Fred Collins Fizz was part of a larger family of “fizz” drinks that were popular during the summer months.
The taste of a Fred Collins Fizz?
Sipping a Fred Collins Fizz is like biting into a fresh, juicy lemon while lounging in a sunny orchard. Its sweet and tart flavors are perfectly balanced, with a hint of vanilla-like smoothness from the bourbon.
I personally love drinking Fred Collins Fizzs because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Fred Collins Fizz
- The drink is a cousin to the more famous Tom Collins, but it uses bourbon instead of gin.
- It was a staple of American cocktail culture throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.
- Modern bartenders often put their twist on the classic by adding fresh fruit or herb garnishes.
Ingredients
- Bourbon: 2 oz (60ml)
- Lemon juice: 1 oz (30ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Club soda: to top up
- Ice cubes: as needed
- Lemon slice and cherry: for garnish
**Collins glass** is the star of the show when serving a Fred Collins Fizz. Its tall shape showcases the drink’s layers and keeps it cool. If you don’t have one, a **Highball glass** can also be a good choice; it’s similar in size and shape.
Recipe. How to make Fred Collins Fizz
- Pour 2 oz (60ml) of bourbon into a shaker filled with ice.
- Add 1 oz (30ml) of lemon juice and 0.5 oz (15ml) of simple syrup.
- Shake the mixture well until it’s very cold.
- Strain the liquid into a Collins glass filled with ice.
- Top up the glass with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon and a cherry.
Fred Collins Fizz is a sweet delight, but remember, it can be sugary. To make it healthier, try using honey or agave syrup. Bourbon has antioxidants, but moderation is key to enjoying its benefits without the downsides.
Food Pairings
Every sip of Fred Collins Fizz can be enhanced with the perfect bite. Below, we’ll explore some delectable pairings that marry beautifully with the cocktail’s refreshing character.
Barbecue Ribs
The smoky flavor of barbecue ribs is a match made in heaven with the vanilla notes of bourbon in the Fred Collins Fizz.
Fresh Summer Salad
A crisp summer salad with vinaigrette dressing echoes the tartness of the lemon in the cocktail, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
Spicy Chicken Wings
The sweetness of the Fred Collins Fizz provides a cooling contrast to the heat of spicy chicken wings, balancing your palate.
I really enjoy the taste of Fred Collins Fizzs—the cool mint and zesty lime make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Chill the glass beforehand to keep your fizz refreshingly cool.
- Customize the sweetness by adjusting the amount of simple syrup to your taste.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Fred Collins Fizz, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Fred Collins Fizz
- Bourbon: Can be swapped with another whiskey or rye for a different flavor profile.
- Lemon juice: Try lime juice for a tangier kick.
- Simple syrup: Experiment with flavored syrups like honey or maple for a twist.
Fred Collins Fizz Variations
Kentucky Collins
- Ingredients: Substitute bourbon with rye whiskey.
- Recipe: Follow the standard recipe, using rye whiskey for a spicier taste.
Cherry Collins
- Ingredients: Add cherry liqueur to the original ingredients.
- Recipe: Mix in a splash of cherry liqueur with the bourbon for a fruity twist.
Peach Collins
- Ingredients: Include peach nectar and fresh peach slices.
- Recipe: Combine peach nectar with the other ingredients and garnish with peach slices.
Swap the bourbon for non-alcoholic spirit and leave out the simple syrup. Top up with soda and garnish with fruit for a tasty Virgin Fred Collins Fizz.
Q&A
Can I make a batch of Fred Collins Fizz in advance?
Sure, mix everything but the soda and keep it chilled. Add the fizz right before serving to keep it bubbly!
Is there a non-bourbon version of Fred Collins Fizz?
Absolutely, try the Virgin Fred Collins Fizz or use gin for an authentic Tom Collins.
What’s the difference between a Fizz and a Sour?
A Fizz includes soda water, while a Sour is simply spirit, citrus, and sweetener—no bubbles!
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled can work—just check for sweetness.
What’s the best bourbon for Fred Collins Fizz?
A smooth, mid-range bourbon that you enjoy sipping should do the trick. It’s all about personal taste!
How can I make my Fred Collins Fizz healthier?
Cut back on the syrup or swap it with a natural sweetener, and consider a lower-proof bourbon.
