A John Collins is a cocktail, a long drink stirred with ice and topped with soda—made from London dry gin (or Bourbon whiskey), lemon juice, sugar and carbonated water. The cocktail was attested in 1869, but may be older. This is, essentially, a tall version of the Whiskey Sour and is perfect for any occasion. It’s an excellent everyday drink that can be poured in just a few minutes.