Screwdriver Cocktail: the recipe for the most classic vodka-based long drink

The screwdriver is a classic long drink, one of the most appreciated and easy cocktails to make. It’s just made of one part of vodka mixed with two parts of orange juice, differently from Mimosa which uses champagne instead of vodka. Refreshing, sharp and sweet at the same time, it is a fruity drink you should prepare with fresh oranges.

Originally this cocktail was more simply called Vodka Orange, but over time it would have gained a very original nickname. "Screwdriver"derives from the fact that in the 1950s an American oilman in Iran would have poured vodka and orange juice into a glass and, having nothing else on his hands, he would have mixed it with a screwdriver. The so called Vodka Orange has also become a great classic of beach cocktails with several variations. Let’s see how to make the Screwdriver step by step.

How to make the Screwdriver

Squeeze the oranges to get the juice. Filter it with a medium mesh strainer to retain any pulp residues.

Fill a highball glass with ice cubes almost to the surface. Pour in two parts of orange juice and one part of vodka.

Mix and garnish with a wedge of orange. Serve and enjoy!

Screwdriver Origins and Variants

According to an article in the US newspaper Time, the origin of this cocktail dates back to the 1950s, when it was first prepared at the Park Hotel in New York. As for the name, it seems to derive from the brilliant intuition of an American oilman — or more generally of American engineers — who used to mix vodka with canned orange juice with a screwdriver.

From the Screwdriver derives another IBA (International Bartender Association) official drink, the famous Harvey Wallbanger. The most classic of the variants of Vodka Orange is certainly the Lemon Vodka, where instead of orange juice there is lemonade, that can also be carbonated.

You can also try different version of this drink by using flavored vodka like berry or vanilla one. For a sweeter Screwdriver, top it with simple syrup or just a touch of Tequila Sunrise.