Kiwi Collins

Instructions

1. Peel and roughly chop half of the kiwi. Place it in the shaker.

2. Gently muddle the kiwi to release its juice and flavour. Avoid crushing the seeds too much as they can add bitterness.

3. Add the gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.

4. Fill the shaker with ice cubes.

5. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.

6. Fill a Collins glass with fresh ice cubes.

7. Double strain the mixture into the prepared glass (using both a Hawthorn strainer and a fine mesh strainer) to remove kiwi pulp and seeds.

8. Top up the glass with soda water.

9. Gently stir to combine the ingredients.

10. Garnish with a fresh kiwi slice and a mint sprig.

Trivia

• What does a Kiwi Collins taste like?

  A Kiwi Collins offers a refreshing and vibrant flavour profile. You'll taste the distinct sweet and slightly tart notes of fresh kiwi, balanced by the botanical character of gin and the bright acidity of lime juice. The simple syrup adds sweetness, and the soda water provides a light, bubbly finish, making it incredibly refreshing and fruity.

• What alcohol is in a Kiwi Collins?

  The primary alcohol in a Kiwi Collins is Gin. Gin provides the botanical backbone that complements the fresh fruitiness of the kiwi and the citrus notes of the lime. The choice of gin can subtly influence the final taste, with London Dry offering classic juniper notes and more contemporary gins bringing different floral or citrus profiles.

• How is a Kiwi Collins different from a regular Tom Collins?

  The main difference lies in the fruit component. A classic Tom Collins features gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water. The Kiwi Collins replaces the lemon juice with lime juice (though lemon can also be used) and incorporates muddled fresh kiwi fruit, adding a distinct tropical, fruity dimension and vibrant green hue not found in the original.

• When is the best time to serve a Kiwi Collins?

  The Kiwi Collins is an ideal cocktail for warm weather occasions. Its refreshing, fruity, and bubbly nature makes it perfect for spring and summer gatherings, garden parties, barbecues, brunches, or simply enjoying on a sunny afternoon. Its appealing look also makes it great for festive parties.

• Can I make a Kiwi Collins non-alcoholic?

  Yes, you can easily create a non-alcoholic Kiwi Collins mocktail. Simply omit the gin and consider adding a splash of elderflower cordial or a non-alcoholic gin alternative for added complexity. Muddle the kiwi with lime juice and simple syrup, shake with ice, strain into a glass, and top with soda water for a delicious and refreshing alcohol-free treat.

• What's the best garnish for a Kiwi Collins?

  The best garnish for a Kiwi Collins enhances its visual appeal and hints at its flavour. A thin slice or wedge of fresh kiwi is essential. Additionally, a sprig of fresh mint adds a lovely contrasting colour and a subtle aromatic lift that complements the kiwi and lime beautifully.