A Screwdriver drink is a simple cocktail made with vodka and orange juice, typically served over ice and garnished with an orange slice.
The screwdriver is one of the simplest yet most iconic cocktails in the world. This highball drink combines just two ingredients – vodka and orange juice – served over ice in a tall glass. Its refreshing citrus flavor and easy preparation have made it a favorite for decades.
What Exactly Is a Screwdriver?
A screwdriver is a mixed drink made by combining vodka and orange juice, typically in a 1:2 ratio. The standard recipe calls for:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka
- 3 oz (90ml) orange juice
- Ice cubes
The drink is built directly in a highball glass filled with ice, stirred gently, and served without elaborate garnishes. While simple, the quality of ingredients makes a big difference. Many bartenders recommend using freshly squeezed orange juice and premium vodka for the best flavor.
The Fascinating History Behind the Name
Origin Theories
Several colorful stories attempt to explain how this drink got its tool-inspired name:
- Improvised Stirring: American oil workers in the Middle East allegedly used screwdrivers to mix their drinks when spoons weren’t available.
- Auto Worker Tradition: U.S. factory workers supposedly added vodka to their morning orange juice and stirred it with screwdrivers.
- Turkish Connection: Early versions appeared in 1940s Turkey where vodka was mixed with local orange juice.
While the exact origin remains unclear, the name first appeared in print in the 1940s as vodka gained popularity in America.
Vodka’s Rise to Popularity
The screwdriver became more widely known in the 1950s as vodka sales skyrocketed in the U.S. Brands like Smirnoff heavily promoted vodka-based cocktails, helping establish the screwdriver as a staple.
How to Make the Perfect Screwdriver
Basic Recipe
Follow these steps for a classic screwdriver:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Vodka | 1.5 oz |
| Orange juice | 3 oz |
| Ice | As needed |
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes
- Add vodka
- Top with orange juice
- Stir gently
- Serve immediately
Pro Tips for Better Screwdrivers
- Use freshly squeezed juice for superior flavor
- Chill ingredients beforehand for a colder drink
- Experiment with flavored vodkas like citrus or vanilla
- Try blood orange juice for a colorful twist
- Add a splash of soda water for effervescence
Popular Variations and Related Drinks
The basic screwdriver has inspired numerous creative variations:
Harvey Wallbanger
Adds a float of Galliano liqueur
Slow Comfortable Screw
Includes sloe gin and Southern Comfort
Mimosa
Substitutes champagne for vodka
Non-Alcoholic Version
Uses ginger ale instead of vodka
The Screwdriver’s Cultural Impact
This simple cocktail has had some surprising cultural moments:
- In the 1970s, gay bars boycotted orange juice (and screwdrivers) in protest against anti-gay activist Anita Bryant, who promoted Florida orange juice.
- The drink appears in numerous films and TV shows, often as a character’s signature drink.
- It remains one of the most popular cocktails worldwide due to its simplicity and refreshing taste.
For more classic cocktail recipes and techniques, check out Liquor.com’s expert guide to mixed drinks.
Whether you’re hosting brunch or just want a refreshing afternoon drink, the screwdriver delivers simplicity and satisfaction. As Inspired Taste notes, it’s one of the easiest cocktails to master while still offering room for creative variations.
