Screwdriver — A simple, refreshing, sweet and sour classic vodka cocktail 🍊🪛🥤

The Screwdriver is one of the world's most popular and easiest highball cocktails. Made with just vodka and orange juice, it's a classic entry-level cocktail. It's not only a common sight in bars in Hong Kong, Europe, and the US, but it's also a favorite for home parties, relaxing tipsy drinks, and after-work drinks. The drink's name comes from the American petroleum engineer who used a screwdriver to mix the vodka and orange juice. Simple and straightforward, requiring no complicated utensils, the drink offers a refreshingly sweet and sour flavor, making it the perfect cocktail for any occasion. I'm a huge fan myself; anything with orange juice is a breeze!

Screwdriver Classic Recipe

• 50ml vodka

• 100ml fresh orange juice

• Ice cubes

• Orange slices or dried oranges for garnish (optional, but looks better with them)

Standard production steps

1. Prepare a highball glass (Collins glass) and fill it 1/3 full with ice.

2. Pour one part vodka to two parts fresh orange juice (ratio about 1:2).

3. Stir gently until combined.

4. If desired, place an orange slice/dried orange on the rim of the glass for garnish.

Taste and characteristics

The Screwdriver's defining characteristic is the harmonious blend of the delicate aroma of vodka and the naturally sweet and sour notes of orange juice. It's refreshing and smooth, with a sweet and tart tang, making it a never-ending drink. Its moderate alcohol content (approximately 10%) makes it easy to enjoy without overdosing. It's a perfect daily drink for Hong Kongers, especially after work, at a gathering with friends, or to cool off in the summer heat. We especially recommend using fresh orange juice for a more intense fruity flavor and a naturally vibrant taste.

Variations & Fun Facts

• Greyhound : Replace orange juice with grapefruit juice to create a Greyhound with a stronger acidity.

• Harvey Wallbanger : A screwdriver with Galliano vanilla liqueur, adding a sweet layer of flavor.

• Salty Dog : Use grapefruit juice and dip the rim of the glass in salt for a more salty and refreshing taste.

• Some say that the screwdriver was first used by oil workers in the Middle East to circumvent the prohibition of alcohol by secretly adding vodka to orange juice cans. Lacking tools, they used a screwdriver to stir the mixture, hence the name.

Editor's Tips

• It's recommended to use freshly squeezed orange juice, which has a more pronounced fruity aroma and a fresher taste. If using concentrated orange juice, remember to choose a sugar-free or low-sugar version.

• Choose the right vodka to enhance the flavor of the fruit juice. If you prefer a less alcoholic taste, add more orange juice.

• Decoration is not necessary, but dried orange/orange slices will greatly enhance the taste and appearance.

• You can add a little soda water to enhance the bubbles and freshness, which is very suitable for the Hong Kong weather.

• Even if you don't drink alcohol normally, you can still enjoy the pleasure of being slightly tipsy with this light alcohol cocktail.

The Screwdriver is a simple, versatile, and smooth classic cocktail choice, perfect for any time of year. Hong Kong friends can easily mix one at home, perfect for late nights, early mornings, parties, and casual occasions—it's that simple, and that delicious! 🍊🪛🥂