Rob Collins (Elderflower Vodka Collins)
A bright, floral twist on the classic Collins. The Rob Collins shakes vodka, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice for a crisp, refreshing cocktail that balances sweetness with a citrus snap.
A floral, vodka-based Collins that blends honeyed elderflower with fresh lemon and fizzing soda. Light, aromatic, and perfectly sessionable for warm days or brunch hours.
Background
The Rob Collins modernizes the Tom Collins formula by swapping gin for vodka and sugar for elderflower liqueur. This update became popular in the 2010s as bartenders sought softer, more aromatic takes on the Collins family.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Vodka – neutral backbone that lets elderflower shine.
- Elderflower liqueur – floral sweetness; St-Germain is classic.
- Lemon juice – adds brightness and balance.
- Club soda – light effervescence to finish.
Equipment - Shaker, strainer, Collins glass, jigger, bar spoon.
Why You’ll Love It – “Floral Fizz with a Kick”
Refreshing yet fragrant. The subtle botanicals from elderflower pair with citrus for a sparkling lift.
Substitutions & Variations
- Use gin instead of vodka for a botanical Collins.
- Try elderflower syrup for a low-ABV version.
- Add fresh mint or cucumber slices for a garden twist.
Helpful Tips
- Chill your Collins glass before pouring for lasting fizz.
- If using a sweeter liqueur like St-Germain, add up to 1 oz lemon juice.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel or edible flower for presentation.
Rob Collins Recipe
Type of Glass
Collins Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 1 oz.
- 3/4 oz.
Directions
- In a shaker filled with ice, combine the Vodka, Elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain), and Lemon juice.
- Shake well for about 8–10 seconds to chill and blend.
- Strain into a Collins glass filled with ice.
- Top with Club soda and give a gentle stir to mix.
- Garnish with a lemon slice.
Note: If using a sweeter elderflower liqueur like St-Germain, you can increase the Lemon juice slightly (up to 1 oz) to maintain balanced acidity.
Light, floral, and endlessly drinkable—the Rob Collins is how summer should taste.
