The History of the Screwdriver Cocktail

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The Screwdriver: A Classic American Cocktail with a Twist

When it comes to cocktails, few are as iconic—or as simple—as the Screwdriver. With just two ingredients—vodka and orange juice—this drink has stood the test of time, remaining a favorite across generations and around the world. Despite the global surge in popularity for gin-based cocktails, vodka continues to reign supreme as the world's most beloved spirit, with one in three drinks in the USA containing this sharp, clear liquid. And it’s no wonder—the Screwdriver, one of the earliest recorded vodka cocktails, embodies the spirit’s versatility and appeal.

TL;DR

• Iconic and Simple: The Screwdriver, made with just vodka and orange juice, is a classic cocktail that remains a global favorite due to its simplicity and versatility.
• Humble Beginnings: Unlike many cocktails, the Screwdriver has uncertain origins, with stories ranging from American oil workers using actual screwdrivers to stir their drinks, to WWII marines and a mix of unlikely figures in post-war Europe.
• Endless Variations: The basic recipe has inspired numerous creative variations, from the Sloe Screw to the Sonic Screwdriver, allowing for experimentation and personalization.
• Timeless Appeal: Easy to make and adaptable for any occasion, the Screwdriver continues to be a popular choice for both casual and sophisticated settings, embodying both tradition and innovation.

Myths and rumours

Unlike many classic cocktails that originated in swanky bars or were crafted by renowned bartenders, the Screwdriver has a much humbler beginning. Stories of its origin are as colorful as the drink itself, with tales ranging from American oil workers in the Persian Gulf using screwdrivers to mix their drinks, to American marines and even an unexpected gathering of Turkish spies, Balkan refugees, and American engineers during World War II. While we may never know the true story, one thing is certain: the Screwdriver is an American creation, with a rich history as varied and vibrant as its many delicious variations.

American Background

Despite the international rise in popularity of gin-based drinks, vodka still remains the number one spirit in the world, with one in three drinks in the USA containing the sharp, clear liquid. The Screwdriver was one of the first recorded cocktails to be made with vodka and, unlike many other classic combinations, it was not created by a bartender in some fancy bar. Instead, it was made by American oil workers out in the Persian gulf in the mid-20th century. While working, they would secretly pour a little vodka into their orange juice and, in the absence of a spoon, they would stir their drinks with a screwdriver - hence the name.

Another possible story attributes the drink to American marines during World War II, while a note in Time magazine in 1949 suggests the cocktail was first invented by an unlikely combination of Turkish intelligence agents, Balkan refugees and American engineers in the Park Hotel.

Whichever story is true, it seems that somewhere along the line, an American was involved in its conception!

Screwdriver Variations

Despite its simplicity (or maybe even because of it), this basic combination of vodka and orange has had many variations over the years. A Sloe Screw replaces vodka with sloe gin, while a Slow Comfortable Screw adds two shot of sloe gin and a shot of Southern Comfort to the mix. Meanwhile, a Slow Comfortable Screw Up Against A Wall combines slow gin, Southern Comfort and Galliano with orange juice.

Add a shot of Tequila to the previous recipe and it becomes a Slow Comfortable Screw Up Against A Wall Mexican Style. Replace that Tequila with peach schnapps and you now have a Slow Comfortable Screw Up Against A Fuzzy Wall.

Perhaps you'd prefer your vodka with a simple slice of orange, to create a Cordless Screwdriver. Or you can replace traditional vodka with vanilla vodka and blue curacao to create the Sonic Screwdriver (also sometimes made with lemon-lime soda instead of orange juice). A Harvey Wallbanger is also a derivative of the screwdriver, made with vodka, orange juice and Galliano.

Whichever variation you prefer, we are sure you'll have fun experimenting! But you might prefer to mix your drink with something more hygienic than a screwdriver!

The Screwdriver’s Enduring Appeal: A Cocktail for Every Occasion

What makes the Screwdriver stand out among classic cocktails is its simplicity and adaptability. Whether served at a bustling bar, enjoyed at a laid-back brunch, or mixed on a hot summer day, this cocktail’s refreshing combination of vodka and orange juice fits almost any occasion. Its easy-to-make recipe—requiring just two ingredients—means that anyone, from a novice home bartender to a seasoned mixologist, can whip up a Screwdriver in seconds, making it a go-to choice for impromptu gatherings or casual sipping.

Beyond its accessibility, the Screwdriver’s versatility also lends itself to endless variations, allowing drinkers to experiment with flavors and ingredients. From fruity twists to spirited upgrades, each new version tells its own story, much like the cocktail’s mysterious and multifaceted origins. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to be both a blank canvas for creativity and a comforting, familiar favorite—a drink that has remained popular for decades and will likely continue to do so for many more.