Screwdriver

The story

The Screwdriver is believed to have originated in the 1940s, with some attributing its creation to American oil workers in the Persian Gulf who mixed vodka with orange juice. The name may come from the use of a screwdriver to stir the drink when no spoon was available. Its simplicity and refreshing taste contributed to its enduring popularity.

How it tastes

The Screwdriver offers a bright and citrusy flavor profile, with the crispness of vodka balanced by the sweetness and acidity of orange juice. It is often served as a refreshing brunch cocktail or a casual drink during warm weather.

Getting it right

The key to a well-made Screwdriver lies in the quality of the vodka and the freshness of the orange juice. Using freshly squeezed juice enhances the drink's flavor, while proper stirring ensures a balanced mix of ingredients without diluting the drink too much.

Variations

• Greyhound — Replace vodka with gin for a herbal twist on the classic.
• Screwdriver with a Twist — Add a splash of grenadine for a sweeter, layered effect.

Substitutions

• Fresh orange juice — Use store-bought orange juice if fresh is unavailable, but it may lack depth.
• Vodka — Substitute with a neutral spirit like gin or white rum for a different flavor.

Questions

Can I use other juices?

Yes, you can experiment with other citrus juices like grapefruit or tangerine, but the classic flavor comes from orange juice.

Is there a low-calorie version?

To make a lower-calorie Screwdriver, use a diet orange soda or a light orange juice.

What's the best vodka for a Screwdriver?

A good quality vodka enhances the drink. Brands like Tito's or Grey Goose are popular choices.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026