Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic8.5% ABV6 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderateshaken drink
Why: 6 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker
Best for: Caviar, Salty Food, Summer
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusSweetenerMixerGarnish
- 2.0 ozCitrus-Flavored VodkaBase
- 1.0 ozMint SyrupSweetener
- 1.0 ozFresh Lemon JuiceCitrus
- 1.0 ozThyme SprigGarnish
- 3.0 ozBitter Lemon SodaMixer
- 2.0 ozLong Thyme SprigsGarnish
Tools:shaker
How to Make It
ShakeStirStrainGarnish
- Put first four ingredients in mixing glass, add ice, and shake well.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
- Strain into ice-filled Collins glass.StrainStraining removes ice chips, pulp or solids for a cleaner texture.
- Top with bitter lemon soda and stir briefly.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Garnish with long thyme sprigs.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
KetoLow-CarbLow-Sugar
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritVodka is the most forgiving swap. A neutral vodka keeps the drink clean. Flavoured vodkas add character but change the balance — cut back on other flavourings if you use one.CitrusLime can replace lemon juice in a pinch but it tastes more floral and slightly sweeter, so the drink will taste different. Reduce any syrup by a small amount if swapping. Orange juice is a softer, less acidic option — use it when you want a rounder, less sharp result.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.BubblesSoda water is neutral and clean — it adds fizz without flavour. Tonic water is bitter and slightly sweet, which changes the balance noticeably. Ginger beer is spiced and punchy; ginger ale is milder and sweeter. These are not interchangeable — pick the one that suits the drink's flavour direction.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Thyme Collins?
- The Thyme Collins is a cocktail made with 6 ingredients, traditionally served in a Collins Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 8.5%. A standard serving contains approximately 330 calories.
- What does a Thyme Collins taste like?
- Thyme Collins has a flavour profile featuring Lemon, Sweet, Citrus, Tart. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Thyme Collins?
- Thyme Collins pairs well with Caviar, Salty Food, Seafood. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Thyme Collins?
- The Thyme Collins has an ABV of approximately 8.5%. That's approximately 1.42 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 330 calories, 46.6g sugar, 47.9g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Thyme Collins typically served?
- Thyme Collins is a popular choice for Summer. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Thyme Collins?
- If you enjoy Thyme Collins, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Thyme Collins at home?
- Yes. The Thyme Collins uses 6 ingredients, making it more involved to prepare at home. You will need a Collins Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Thyme Collins with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.