Screwdriver cocktail recipe

They’re called classics for a reason and, when it comes to cocktails, the oh-so-simple Screwdriver surely sits at the top of the list.

Like a lot of cocktails, its origins are debated vigorously, but the general consensus is that it hails from World War II when American GIs stationed in China and Turkey mixed orange juice with the local spirit – no doubt in an effort to try to hide the taste of the locally distilled brew. And why is it called the Screwdriver? Apparently the Americans lacked spoons, so they used screwdrivers for stirring sticks. Necessity is, after all, the mother of invention.

But how did it become associated with vodka and known the world over, we hear you ask? Like most things, you can thank the advertising execs of New York’s Madison Avenue for that. In the mid-1950s, vodka was rising in popularity throughout America on the back of glossy advertising campaigns from big brands like Smirnoff. Mixed drinks were hitting new heights and the Screwdriver became an instant classic. And it’s not hard to see why: combining neutral, high-quality vodka with everyone’s fave fruit juice creates a drink that’ll please everyone. 

Like all cocktails, quality is key when it comes to ingredients. Sure you can grab any old orange juice and make a perfectly drinkable Screwdriver, but if you’re going to do it, you might as well do it right. 

Grab one of the fancier OJs with the pulp or, even better, squeeze the oranges yourself – it’s the fruit that makes the drink special. 

Good quality ice is another pro tip – a long ice spear is a great choice in this drink. And popping your glass in the freezer to chill down for 30 minutes before making the drink is another pro move. 

Don’t forget to stir it well, either – you don’t want the vodka and OJ to sit separately in the glass (although we recommend using a spoon rather than an actual screwdriver). And while it may not be the traditional way to make it, feel free to shake your ingredients in a cocktail tin to integrate the flavours and get a frothy texture. 

You can also add a subtle twist to your regular Screwdriver by adding a splash of Galliano, which turns it into a Harvey Wallbanger. Just mix 3 parts vodka, 1 part Galliano and 6 parts fresh orange juice for something a little different.