Tom Collins

The recent hot spell inspired a return to a cocktail classic (a good 200 years old) that refreshes without smashing you too much about the head. The Tom Collins first and foremost needs a fantastic glass. Into a shaker filled with ice, add 1½ oz. of gin (Plymouth or Tanqueray are good enough), 1 oz. simple syrup (just slow simmer 1 cup sugar with 1 cup water and you’ll be rich in simple syrup), and 1 oz. fresh lemon juice. Shake and pour into a glass. Top with 4 oz. fizzy water of your choice and garnish with a cherry and orange slice. Summer on a cooled veranda in a glass.