Screwdriver
The Screwdriver is a classic highball that exemplifies simplicity and refreshment. It consists of just two ingredients: vodka and orange juice, served over ice in a highball glass. Its straightforward nature makes it one of the most popular and accessible cocktails globally. The quality of the drink is directly dependent on the quality of the orange juice used, with freshly squeezed juice being highly recommended for a superior taste.
Preparation
Preparation time: 2 minutes
Preparation time
Difficulty
Drink Classification
The Screwdriver is a classic cocktail, specifically categorized as a highball. Its simple two-ingredient formula has cemented its place as a fundamental and enduring drink. It is a staple in bars worldwide and is recognized by the International Bartenders Association.
Serving
Served cold over ice in a highball glass, the Screwdriver is a refreshing drink with a moderate alcohol content. No special glass treatment is required.
Serving size
Approximately 200-240 ml / 7-8 oz
Alcohol content
Approximately 10-15% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Highball
Glass treatment
None
Backstory
The origin of the Screwdriver is somewhat murky but is often attributed to American oil workers in the Persian Gulf in the mid-20th century. Lacking a spoon or stirrer, they purportedly mixed their vodka and orange juice with a screwdriver. This practical, albeit unconventional, tool gave the drink its memorable name. The cocktail's popularity grew, and it was first mentioned in print in a 1949 issue of Time magazine.
Origin
Believed to have originated with American oil workers in the Persian Gulf, mid-20th century (circa 1940s).
Screwdriver
The drink is universally known as the Screwdriver. Its most common alternative name, "Vodka and Orange," is more descriptive of its simple ingredients. This straightforward name is often used by those unfamiliar with the "Screwdriver" moniker.
Original name
Screwdriver
Alternative name
Vodka and Orange
Characteristics overview
This drink offers a straightforward flavor profile dominated by sweet and citrusy orange, with a clean finish. It's a non-carbonated, smooth, and refreshing cocktail that is enjoyed year-round.
Flavor
Sweet, citrusy, orange, smooth
Aroma
Orange, citrus
Taste balance
Sweet, sour
Aftertaste
Clean, short, fruity
Fizziness
None
Color appearance
Opaque, bright orange
Texture
Smooth, liquid
Seasonality
Refreshing, summery, year-round
Flavor intensity & Experience
The flavor is dominated by high fruitiness and moderate sweetness from the orange juice, balanced by a gentle alcohol presence. It is not salty, spicy, creamy, or carbonated.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation
Ingredients
This cocktail requires only two simple ingredients: vodka as the base spirit and orange juice as the mixer. The quality of the orange juice significantly impacts the final taste.
- Vodka50 ml / 1.75 ozA decent quality, neutral vodka works best to let the orange juice shine.
- Orange Juice100 ml / 3.5 ozFreshly squeezed is highly recommended for the best flavor.
Ice type
- Cubed
Mixing equipments
No special equipment is needed; a simple bar spoon is sufficient for gently stirring the ingredients in the glass.
- Bar spoon for stirring
Instructions
Preparation is simple: build the drink directly in an ice-filled highball glass by adding vodka, then orange juice, stirring gently, and garnishing.
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour the vodka over the ice.
3. Top with orange juice.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with an orange slice or wedge.
Garnishing
A simple garnish of an orange slice or wedge complements the drink's primary flavor and enhances its visual appeal.
- Orange slice or wedge, placed on the rim or in the glass.
Dietary Information
The Screwdriver is generally free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, nuts, and soy, and is suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets. It is also gluten-free, provided an unflavored, distilled vodka is used.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly
Nutrition information
A standard Screwdriver contains a moderate amount of calories, carbohydrates, and sugar, primarily from the orange juice.
Calories
Approximately 160-190 kcal / 670-795 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approximately 12-15 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approximately 10-13 g
Sugar level
Occasions
The Screwdriver is a versatile drink suitable for many occasions, particularly brunch, where it serves as a simple alternative to the Mimosa. It's also perfect for casual gatherings, parties, and relaxed all-day sipping due to its refreshing and uncomplicated nature.
- Brunch
- Casual gatherings
- All-day drinking
- Party
Pairing suggestions
The Screwdriver pairs exceptionally well with brunch and breakfast dishes. Its citrusy profile also complements light appetizers and balances the saltiness of snacks like nuts or pretzels.
- Breakfast foods like pancakes or eggs benedict
- Light appetizers
- Salty snacks
The Screwdriver: A Simple and Timeless Classic
The Screwdriver is a globally recognized classic cocktail, celebrated for its ultimate simplicity. Comprising just vodka and orange juice served over ice, it's a refreshing and accessible highball. Its name is rumored to have come from oil workers who used a screwdriver to stir their drinks. Perfect for brunch or any casual occasion, the quality of this drink hinges on using fresh, high-quality orange juice.