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Screwdriver
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.64 / 5

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You’ll find the Screwdriver is a no-fuss highball that pairs vodka with orange juice for a bright, easygoing drink. It... ... more

You’ll find the Screwdriver is a no-fuss highball that pairs vodka with orange juice for a bright, easygoing drink. It sits firmly in the mid-century “vodka-and-juice” family that helped make vodka feel approachable in mixed drinks, and it’s long been a staple wherever simple, refreshing serves are the order of the day. Its staying power comes from how effortlessly it delivers a clean spirit base with familiar citrus.

With just two ingredients, the balance is straightforward: vodka brings a neutral, lightly warming backbone, while orange juice supplies the drink’s sweetness and citrus tang. Expect the orange juice to soften the vodka’s edge, letting the spirit read as smooth rather than sharp, with a juicy finish that keeps each sip feeling uncomplicated and refreshing.

This is a natural choice when you want something quick, crowd-pleasing, and not too intense—think brunches, casual get-togethers, or warm-weather afternoons. If you like your cocktails on the lighter, fruit-forward side, this one lands especially well, and it suits anyone who prefers clean flavours over heavy syrups or bitters.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
Invented
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(1938)
Base ingredient
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Vodka
Calories
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144 calories
Garnish
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Orange
Alcohol content
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13.33% | 2 units *
Details
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Classic
Stirred

Tags

Vodka ingredient icon
Vodka cocktails

Highball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

Vodka keeps things clean and neutral while orange juice brings bright citrus sweetness and a soft, pulpy tang that dominates the sip, finishing with a lightly bitter orange peel note. This works because the orange juice gives the vodka body and flavor without extra fuss; it’s ideal for anyone who wants an easy, low-effort highball and doesn’t mind a straightforward, juice-forward profile.

Method
How to make a Screwdriver

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Vodka 50ml, Orange juice 100ml
Stir together the vodka and orange juice directly in a highball glass with ice
Garnish with an orange slice and serve

Power tips
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Always use freshly squeezed orange juice. The fresh juice will bring out a natural sweetness and vibrant color that bottled juice cannot match.
To make it extra refreshing, chill the highball glass in the freezer for a few minutes before making the drink.
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Screwdriver masterclass

Master the craft of the Screwdriver cocktail with one of our cocktail deep dive masterclasses

The History of the Screwdriver Cocktail

When it comes to cocktails, few are as iconic—or as simple—as the Screwdriver. With just two ingredi...

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Stir  ·  Highball  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the Screwdriver cocktail?

The Screwdriver cocktail is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century. One popular story suggests that American oil workers in the Persian Gulf mixed vodka into their orange juice using their screwdrivers as stirrers, hence the name. However, its exact origins are somewhat murky, with mentions of the basic combination in literature predating this story.

Faq icon

Can I use any type of orange juice for a Screwdriver?

Yes, you can use any type of orange juice, but the quality of the juice significantly affects the cocktail's taste. Freshly squeezed orange juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. Store-bought juice can also be used, but try to choose a brand that's as natural and pulp-free as possible to come close to the taste of fresh juice.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Screwdriver?

Yes, the non-alcoholic version of the Screwdriver is commonly called an 'Orange Driver' or sometimes just 'Virgin Screwdriver'. It omits the vodka and focuses on the fresh orange juice, often mixed with a bit of tonic water or lemon-lime soda to add the fizz that alcohol would usually give to the cocktail.

Faq icon

Are there any popular variations of the Screwdriver cocktail?

Certainly! One of the most popular variations is the 'Screwdriver Mimosa', which mixes equal parts of orange juice, vodka, and champagne. Another variation is the 'Harvey Wallbanger', which adds a splash of Galliano, an Italian herbal liqueur. These variations add either a fizzy component or a herbal note, creating a different drinking experience.

Faq icon

How do I properly serve a Screwdriver?

A Screwdriver should be served cold. Fill a highball glass with ice, add 50ml of vodka, then top it off with 100ml of orange juice. Stir well to mix the ingredients. Garnishing with a slice of orange or a maraschino cherry is optional but can add to the presentation. Serving it immediately after preparation ensures the drink remains chilled and refreshing.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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