Thyme and Citrus Gin Collins Cocktail Recipe

I’ve always enjoyed discovering new ways to put a spin on classic gin cocktails. There’s something about a fresh twist—especially for summer get-togethers—that just makes the whole thing more fun.

The Thyme and Citrus Gin Collins is one of those drinks that’s simple yet packed with flavor. It takes the sparkly charm of a Tom Collins and layers in the herbal kick of thyme and a punch of citrus.

Honestly, this recipe is a breeze to follow. It’s refreshing, and if you want to try a unique riff on a gin fizz, this one’s a solid pick.

When I want to impress friends or just make something nice for myself, this cocktail always delivers. It’s got that tart lemon, sweet syrup, and crisp sparkling water, all lifted by the scent of fresh thyme.

Plus, the steps are quick—so you can spend more time sipping and less time playing bartender.

Thyme And Citrus Gin Collins Cocktail Recipe

This cocktail brings together fresh thyme, zesty citrus, and bubbly soda water for a drink that’s bright and lively. I usually reach for lemon juice and simple syrup to get that sweet-tart balance just right.

Equipment

• Highball glass: I like a tall glass—it shows off those bubbles and the garnish.
• Jigger: Handy for measuring out the gin and juices without guessing.
• Bar spoon: Makes stirring a breeze and helps everything blend nicely.
• Cocktail shaker (optional): Sometimes I’ll use this if I want things extra cold.
• Fine strainer: Good for catching stray thyme leaves or pulp if you shake it up.
• Ice cubes: Gotta have ’em—no one wants a warm Collins.

Ingredients

• 2 oz dry gin (Old Tom gin works too if you like it sweeter)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz simple syrup (or sugar syrup)
• 0.25 oz fresh lime juice (for a little extra tartness)
• Fresh thyme sprig (plus more for garnish)
• 2-3 oz soda water or club soda
• Ice cubes
• Citrus peel for garnish (lemon or lime, whatever’s handy)

Instructions

• Drop the thyme and simple syrup into the bottom of your highball glass.
• Give the thyme a gentle muddle to coax out those oils.
• Fill the glass up with ice cubes.
• Pour in the gin, lemon juice, and lime juice.
• Stir it all together with your bar spoon.
• Top with soda water or club soda, pouring slowly so the bubbles stick around.
• Give it one last gentle stir.
• Finish with a thyme sprig and a twist of citrus peel for garnish.

Notes

I lean toward dry gin for its crispness, but Old Tom gin is great if you want a touch more sweetness. Fresh lemon juice is a must—bottled just doesn’t do the trick.

When I add the soda water, I make sure to pour slowly to keep it fizzy. If you like it less sweet, just cut back on the simple syrup.

A sprig of fresh thyme not only tastes great, but it makes the drink look pretty sharp too. Sometimes I’ll rub the citrus peel on the rim for a little extra aroma.

A highball glass packed with ice keeps everything cool and bubbly. If I want a stronger herbal note, I’ll muddle in more thyme or let it hang out in the gin for a few minutes.

Gentle mixing keeps the drink clear, not murky. It’s a small thing, but it makes a difference.

Tasting Notes

Taking my first sip of the Thyme and Citrus Gin Collins, I’m struck by how fresh and light it is. The gin’s gentle herbal quality mingles with the thyme in a way that just works.

What really jumps out? That tart citrus, no question. The grapefruit juice brings a little bitterness—just enough to keep things from getting cloying.

Honestly, the lemon wheel garnish is a nice touch. It gives the drink this bright, zesty aroma the moment you bring the glass up.

The earthiness from the thyme is subtle, but you notice it blending in with the gin. Every sip feels cooling, thanks to all that fresh citrus.

The finish is clean, leaving just a soft hint of thyme and grapefruit behind. Those bubbles really make the whole thing lively—easy to drink, honestly.

If I want something bright but not overly sweet, this is the cocktail I reach for.