If you’re a fan of gin-based cocktails, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the Tanqueray Tom Collins. This classic cocktail has been a favorite of gin enthusiasts for decades, and for good reason. The combination of lemon, gin, sugar, and soda creates a refreshingly tasty drink that’s perfect for a sunny day or a night out with friends.
But, have you ever wondered what makes Tanqueray gin the go-to choice for this cocktail? And is Tanqueray 10 really better than the original formula? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Tanqueray Tom Collins, including the difference between Tanqueray and Tanqueray 10, what makes this cocktail so popular, and what goes with Tanqueray gin.
We’ll also answer some of the most common questions about the Tom Collins, like what is the best gin to use when making this cocktail, and what is the difference between a Tom Collins and a Gin and Tonic? So, whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a gin newbie, this guide will give you all the information you need to know about the classic Tanqueray Tom Collins. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
What Goes with Tanqueray Gin?
Tanqueray gin is a versatile drink that can be paired with a variety of mixers and ingredients. If you’re looking for the perfect pairing for your Tanqueray Tom Collins, here are some great options to consider:
Citrus Fruits
Since gin is a citrus-based spirit, it’s a great idea to pair Tanqueray gin with citrus fruits. Lemon and lime are commonly used in Tanqueray Tom Collins drinks, but you can also add grapefruit or orange juice to add a unique flavor to your drink.
Tonic Water
Tonic water is a classic mixer for gin and is an excellent choice for a Tanqueray gin drink. Add a splash of tonic water to your Tanqueray Tom Collins for a crisp and refreshing taste.
Bitters
Bitters are aromatic extracts that can add complexity and depth to your drinks. Angostura bitters are a classic choice for gin cocktails and work well with Tanqueray gin. Add a few dashes to your Tanqueray Tom Collins for an added layer of flavor.
Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs can add a unique and fresh flavor to your Tanqueray gin drinks. Mint and basil are great options to consider. Muddle a few leaves at the bottom of your cocktail shaker before adding the rest of your ingredients for a refreshing twist to your Tanqueray Tom Collins.
Ginger Beer
If you’re looking for a spicy and flavorful mix, try adding ginger beer to your Tanqueray Tom Collins. The ginger beer will add a kick to your drink and give it a unique taste that’s sure to impress.
There are many different mixers and ingredients that you can pair with Tanqueray gin. Whether you prefer citrus fruits, tonic water, bitters, fresh herbs, or ginger beer, the options are endless. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect match for your Tanqueray Tom Collins. Enjoy!
Tanqueray 10 better than Tanqueray
If you’re a gin lover, you must have heard about Tanqueray at some point. It’s a classic London Dry Gin brand with a rich history dating back to 1830. Tanqueray has different variations, including the original Tanqueray and Tanqueray No. Ten, both of which are popular among gin enthusiasts.
But is Tanqueray No. Ten better than the original Tanqueray? Let’s find out.
The key differences between Tanqueray and Tanqueray No. Ten
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Quality of ingredients:
Tanqueray No. Ten uses premium ingredients, including fresh citrus fruits, camomile flowers, and whole botanicals, all of which are uniquely distilled. On the other hand, the original Tanqueray uses standard botanicals such as juniper, coriander, and angelica. -
Distillation process:
Tanqueray No. Ten is made in smaller batches using a small copper pot still named “Tiny Ten.” This method allows for more precise distillation, resulting in a smoother and more refined taste. Tanqueray, on the other hand, uses a larger column still, making it easier and faster to produce. -
Taste profile:
Tanqueray No. Ten has a more complex and delicate flavor profile with subtle notes of citrus and flowers. In contrast, the original Tanqueray is more juniper-forward, with a slightly bitter taste.
Reasons to choose Tanqueray No. Ten
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Premium ingredients:
Tanqueray No. Ten uses high-quality ingredients, resulting in a more sophisticated and smoother taste. -
Refinement:
Tanqueray No. Ten’s distillation method allows for a more refined taste profile that’s perfect for sipping cocktails and martinis. -
Versatility:
Tanqueray No. Ten’s subtle and delicate flavor profile makes it suitable for a wide range of cocktails, from classic gin and tonics to more complex drinks.
Reasons to choose Tanqueray
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Classic juniper-forward taste:
If you prefer a classic gin taste with a juniper-forward taste, then the original Tanqueray is an excellent choice. -
Affordable:
Tanqueray is more affordable and readily available compared to Tanqueray No. Ten. -
Tradition:
Tanqueray has a long history and is one of the most recognizable gin brands globally, making it an excellent choice for gin enthusiasts looking to explore classic gin brands.
Both Tanqueray and Tanqueray No. Ten are excellent gin brands, but the better choice depends on your taste preference, budget, and the occasion. Tanqueray is an affordable, classic gin with a juniper-forward taste, perfect for mixing in cocktails. In contrast, Tanqueray No. Ten is more premium, with a more refined taste profile and suitable for sipping cocktails and martinis. Ultimately, they’re both great options for gin lovers.
What is the Best Gin to Make Tom Collins?
When it comes to making the perfect Tom Collins, gin selection can make all the difference. Here are some of the best gins to consider:
1. Tanqueray London Dry Gin
Tanqueray is the original classic gin that has been perfected over time. It has a smooth, dry taste, which makes it the perfect choice for making a Tom Collins.
2. Beefeater London Dry Gin
Beefeater is another excellent choice for making Tom Collins. It has a slightly sweeter taste with a hint of juniper and citrus. This gin is well balanced and pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the drink.
3. Bombay Sapphire Gin
Bombay Sapphire is an excellent premium gin option for those who love a strong botanical flavor. It has a clean, crisp taste with notes of citrus and herbs, making it a perfect match for a Tom Collins.
4. Hendrick’s Gin
Hendrick’s Gin is a unique and unusual gin that has a subtle flavor. It has notes of rose and cucumber that add a refreshing twist to the classic Tom Collins.
5. Plymouth Gin
Plymouth Gin is a smoother, less heavy gin that’s perfect for those who like their Tom Collins with a bit of sweetness. It has a softer, more elegant taste that lends itself well to this classic cocktail.
In conclusion, any of these gins would be an excellent choice for making the perfect Tom Collins. Try them all and decide which one you prefer best for your cocktail preferences.
Difference between Tanqueray and Tanqueray 10
Tanqueray and Tanqueray 10 are two of the most popular gin brands in the world today. They are both crafted by Charles Tanqueray, a famous British gin distiller who founded the brand over 180 years ago. Although they both share some similarities, there are some differences between them that distinguish one from the other. Here are some key differences between Tanqueray and Tanqueray 10:
1. Botanicals
Tanqueray gin is made up of a blend of four botanicals, which include juniper, coriander, angelica root, and liquorice. On the other hand, Tanqueray 10 is made up of ten botanicals, including chamomile flower, grapefruit peel, and fresh lime.
2. Production process
Tanqueray gin is distilled with the botanicals in a special still known as the Old Tom. The gin is distilled four times to give it a smooth taste and aroma. On the other hand, Tanqueray 10 is made in small batches using a special distillation process in a small copper pot still. This gives Tanqueray 10 a smoother, more refined taste.
3. Taste
Tanqueray gin is known for its robust and bold taste, which is both dry and refreshing. It has a dominating flavor of juniper, which is complemented by a hint of sweetness from the liquorice. On the flip side, Tanqueray 10 has a more refined and subtle taste. It is smooth, crisp, and has hints of fresh citrus, making it perfect for a classic martini or a Tanqueray Tom Collins.
4. Price
Tanqueray gin is more affordable than Tanqueray 10. This is because Tanqueray 10 is made using more expensive botanicals and a more complex distillation process that adds to its unique taste.
5. Cocktail preference
Tanqueray gin is ideal for classic gin-based cocktails such as a G&T, while Tanqueray 10 is perfect for cocktails that require a more refined or fresh taste, like the Tanqueray Tom Collins.
In conclusion, while Tanqueray gin is a classic gin that is bold and robust, Tanqueray 10 is a more refined and sophisticated gin that is perfect for those who prefer a slightly lighter taste. Both gins are unique and have their own distinct flavors, which makes them ideal for different cocktail preferences.
The Difference Between a Tom Collins and a Gin and Tonic
If you’re a fan of cocktails, then you might have heard of Tom Collins and Gin and Tonic. These two drinks might look similar at first glance, but they are entirely different. Here, we will discuss the key differences between these classic cocktails.
The Basics
- Tom Collins is a classic cocktail that is made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water.
- Gin and Tonic is another classic cocktail that is made with gin and tonic water.
Ingredients
- Tom Collins has a sweet and sour taste due to the presence of lemon juice and sugar.
- Gin and Tonic has a bitter taste due to the presence of quinine in tonic water and the earthy flavor of the gin.
Preparation
- In making Tom Collins, you need to mix gin, lemon juice, and sugar in a shaker, and strain it into a Collins glass filled with ice. Top it with soda water and garnish with lemon or orange slice and cherry.
- In making Gin and Tonic, you need to mix gin and tonic water in a glass filled with ice. You can add a slice of lime to add flavor.
Serving Style
- Tom Collins is a long drink that is usually served in a highball or Collins glass.
- Gin and Tonic is also a long drink, but it is usually served in a tumbler or rock glass.
Taste and Flavor
- Tom Collins is a sweet, sour, and fizzy drink with a refreshing taste due to the inclusion of soda water.
- Gin and Tonic is a bitter, dry, and fizzy drink due to the tonic water.
Alcohol Content
- Tom Collins usually contains about 5 to 10 percent alcohol by volume (ABV) depending on the amount of gin you add.
- Gin and Tonic has a lower alcohol content than Tom Collins, usually containing 7 to 10 percent ABV.
In conclusion, while both drinks contain gin and some fizzy element, the difference in preparation, ingredients, and taste makes them unique. So, the next time you’re at the bar, choose your cocktail wisely!
