Screwed Up ScrewdriverCocktail recipe
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The Screwed Up Screwdriver is a dark-twisted riff on the familiar vodka-and-orange highball, swapping standard vodka for black vodka to give the drink a striking, inky look. While the Screwdriver itself is a long-running, no-fuss staple, this variation is more about modern visual drama than a fixed origin story—an easy way to take a simple two-ingredient format and make it feel a little more mischievous without changing the idea.
You’ll find black vodka brings a clean, neutral backbone with a subtle edge, letting the orange juice do most of the talking. The orange juice delivers bright citrus sweetness and a soft, pulpy roundness, while the vodka keeps the finish crisp and dry enough to stop it feeling cloying. Together, it drinks like a classic Screwdriver in flavour, but looks far bolder in the glass.
Serve it in a highball when you want something effortless, crowd-pleasing, and visually unexpected—especially for Halloween parties, themed nights, or any time you want a “what is that?” moment. It suits you if you like easy citrus drinks, prefer minimal bitterness, and want a long, refreshing pour that doesn’t demand a complicated bar setup.
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Highball glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Black vodka brings a clean, slightly shadowy edge to the bright, pulpy sweetness of orange juice, making each sip start with juicy citrus and finish with a darker, drier vodka bite. It works because the orange juice’s acidity and sugar soften the black vodka’s intensity while the vodka keeps the juice from feeling flat, ideal for highball drinkers who want a simple, visually dramatic pour.
Method
How to make a Screwed Up Screwdriver
- Black vodka 45ml, Orange juice 150ml
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- In a highball glass with ice pour in the tangerine juice
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- Layer the black vodka over the top and garnish with a liquorice stick before serving
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FAQ's
Can I use a different type of vodka in the Screwed Up Screwdriver?
Yes, while the original recipe calls for Black Vodka to give it a unique color and a slightly different taste, you can use regular vodka as a substitute. The flavor profile will remain primarily the same, though the visual appeal may be less dramatic.
What are some garnishing tips for the Screwed Up Screwdriver?
To enhance the visual appeal of the Screwed Up Screwdriver, consider adding a slice of orange on the rim of the glass or floating a thin wheel of orange on top of the drink. Additionally, a sprig of mint or a cherry can add a pop of color and a touch of extra flavor.
What is the best way to serve the Screwed Up Screwdriver?
The Screwed Up Screwdriver is best served cold in a highball glass. It's not shaken or stirred, so you can simply pour the black vodka over ice, top it with orange juice, and gently mix for the best flavor distribution and visual effect.
What occasions are most suitable for serving the Screwed Up Screwdriver?
Given its unique appearance and refreshing taste, the Screwed Up Screwdriver is perfect for Halloween parties, themed events, or any gathering where you want to offer an intriguing and visually appealing drink option. It's also a great choice for summertime barbecues or pool parties.
How does the alcohol content of the Screwed Up Screwdriver compare to a standard screwdriver cocktail?
The Screwed Up Screwdriver has an alcohol content of 9.23%, which is slightly higher than a standard screwdriver cocktail due to the proportion of vodka to orange juice. However, the difference is not drastically significant, making it similarly enjoyable with a moderate alcohol level.
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