The Chai Collins is proof that the perfect winter drink doesn’t have to be warm.
On a chilly winter evening, it’s easy to reach for a piping hot cocktail like a Bourbon Hot Chocolate, Whisky Skin, Hot Toddy, Ward 8 Toddy, or the Mama, I’m Coming Home. But this chilly drink is here to spice up your expectations.
The Chai Collins is a variation on the traditional Tom Collins – a classic summer cocktail. Born out of the 1800s London bar scene, the Tom Collins has survived the test of time because of its refreshing flavor combinations. With gin as the base, the drink is rounded out by tart lemon juice, simple syrup, and a topping of club soda. Its popularity has actually inspired tons of riffs like the cucumber and vodka Phil Collins, Irish whiskey based Michael Collins, rum filled Ron Collins, and even the bourbon John Collins. But this Collins riff is made for bourbon lovers who crave some Indian spice.
The Chai Collins begins with bourbon and keeps the traditional lemon juice and club soda. However, some homemade Chai-infused Simple Syrup is what makes this cocktail truly special. All together, this cocktail is a cross between a bourbon-based Tom Collins and an iced Hot Toddy that got a spicy upgrade.
Chai Collins
Equipment
- 1 Cocktail Shaker
- 1 Collins Glass
Ingredients
- ½ ounce Lemon Juice
- 1½ ounces Bourbon
- Chai Simple Syrup
- Club Soda (to top)
- 1 twist Lemon (garnish)
- 1 Cinnamon Stick (garnish)
Chai Simple Syrup
- 1 bag Chai
- 1 tsp Water
- 1 tsp Sugar
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add ½ ounce of lemon juice, 1½ ounces of Bourbon, and the Chai Simple Syrup. Shake until cold.
- Pour the contents into a Collins glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and stir lightly.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon and a cinnamon stick.
Chai Simple Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine the contents of one Chai bag, 1 teaspoon of water, and 1 teaspoon of sugar.
- Simmer on medium heat until all ingredients are combined and the sugar is dissolved to make a Chai Simple Syrup.
- Let cool before using.
