Screwdriver
The Screwdriver is a quintessential classic cocktail, celebrated for its refreshing simplicity and bright citrus flavour. Combining just two main ingredients, vodka and orange juice, it's incredibly easy to make yet delivers a satisfying taste perfect for brunch, parties, or a relaxed evening. Learn how to make this iconic highball drink perfectly every time.
Ingredients
- 5 cl vodka
- 10 cl orange juice
- ice cubes
- 1 slice orange
Accessories
- 1 highball glass
Instructions
Fill a highball glass completely with ice cubes.
Pour the vodka over the ice.
Top up the glass with fresh orange juice.
Give the drink a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
Garnish with a fresh orange slice on the rim or dropped into the drink.
Trivia
- What is a Screwdriver cocktail?
A Screwdriver is a classic highball cocktail made by combining vodka and orange juice. It's known for its simple preparation, refreshing taste, and status as a brunch staple and popular party drink worldwide.
- Why is the drink called a Screwdriver?
The origin story, though likely apocryphal, suggests American oil workers in the Persian Gulf discreetly mixed vodka into their orange juice cans and stirred the concoction with their screwdrivers, thus giving the drink its name.
- What's the best vodka for a Screwdriver?
While any vodka works, a clean, smooth, and relatively neutral vodka is generally preferred for a Screwdriver. Since the drink has only two main ingredients, the quality of both the vodka and the orange juice significantly impacts the final taste. Mid-range, unflavored vodkas are excellent choices.
- Should I use fresh or bottled orange juice for a Screwdriver?
Freshly squeezed orange juice will always provide the brightest, most vibrant flavour for a Screwdriver. However, if unavailable, a high-quality, not-from-concentrate bottled orange juice is a perfectly acceptable substitute. Avoid overly sweet or artificial-tasting juices.
- What is the ideal vodka to orange juice ratio for a Screwdriver?
The most common ratio is 1 part vodka to 2 parts orange juice (e.g., 5 cl vodka to 10 cl orange juice). However, this can be adjusted based on personal preference. Some prefer a stronger drink (1:1) while others like it lighter (1:3).
- Are there common variations of the Screwdriver?
Yes, several popular cocktails are variations of the Screwdriver. Adding Galliano liqueur creates a Harvey Wallbanger. Substituting peach schnapps for some of the vodka makes a Fuzzy Navel (though traditionally made without vodka). A Sloe Screw uses sloe gin instead of vodka.