A couple of nights ago Joe made a classic Tom Collins and then started trying a few variations. It ocurred to us that it would be fun to make our own contribution to the Collins chapter of the cocktail canon. The challenge is that the Collins is in a crowded field. Besides Tom, there is also John (bourbon or geneva gin, depending on whom you ask), Juan (tequila), and Pierre (Cognac). When Joe made a Collins with grapefruit juice instead of lemon, we thought we had it--Joan Collins. Unfortunately we found out that a Joan Collins has already been created as a Brandy interpretation of the original.
We also decided we should stick with the spirit-simple-lemon format, and last night I believe we came up with a winner: Sean Collins. Basically a sparkling whiskey sour made with Irish Whiskey. This Collins, like all the others, is not a complex drink or a difficult one to make. But it is quite refreshing on a hot summer evening, and a welcome break from the ubiquitous margarita.

Sean Collins
1 1/2 oz Irish Whiskey
1 oz simple syrup
3/4 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice
Club soda
Cherry and Orange wheel for garnish
Shake first three ingredients and strain onto rocks in a collins glass. Top with club soda and stir. Garnish with cherry and orange "flag."