Ever wondered why a cocktail consisting of vodka and orange juice is called a screwdriver? Let’s mix it up and find out.

The History of the Screwdriver

The Screwdriver was first crafted in the late 1940s where American oil workers in the Persian Gulf secretly dosed their orange juice with vodka for an extra kick. Without any spoons available, it was mixed with a screwdriver attached to their work clothes, thus giving the cocktail its name.

What does a Screwdriver taste like?

The Screwdriver is fresh and punchy with fragrant citrus, with vodka softening any acidic edges. It tastes best when freshly squeezed orange juice is added, and best served during brunches, casual parties or a hot afternoon. With its simple ingredients and refreshing taste, the screwdriver is a favourite with beginners and veterans alike.

Classic Screwdriver Recipe

Ingredients

60ml Vodka

150ml Orange Juice

Orange slice, for garnish

How-to

1. Fill a highball glass with ice
2. Pour 60ml of Vodka and 150ml of Orange Juice
3. Stir well
4. Garnish with an orange slice

Variations

Due to the minimal profile of the Screwdriver, you could always adjust the amount of Orange Juice added, or take a look at other various ways to spice up your cocktail:

Use flavoured Vodkas such as raspberry, citrus, or vanilla

Harvey Wallbanger: Add a float of Galliano, an Italian liqueur

Fuzzy Navel: Swap out the vodka in favour of peach schnapps for a less-potent, fruitier cocktail

Summerthyme Screwdriver: Update the classic with fresh thyme, bittersweet Aperol and club soda

Conclusion

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