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Nothing screams the 1980’s like the classic Screwdriver cocktail! It doesn’t get simpler than this drink and that’s one of the reasons that it is one of the most popular cocktails ever created.
Most bartenders I know roll their eyes at the mention of cocktails from the 80’s. The most common complaint being that there was little innovation and a whole lot of fruit juice. This is certainly true in some aspects but you have to admit, the simple cocktails like the Screwdriver are popular because of how easy they are to make and it’s always nice to know a good brunch cocktail – I mean, who doesn’t like orange juice at brunch?
There are also plenty of ways you can mix things up with this drink. For instance, give the Green Screwdriver a try. It has some additional ingredients such as Club Soda and Blue Curacao and is a fantastic spin on this classic.
How to Make the Screwdriver Cocktail
To make a Screwdriver cocktail, you will need a tall glass filled with ice, to begin with. You will then add the correct measurements of Vodka and Orange juice (see the recipe card below) to the glass and, using a bar spoon, give it a stir. Now garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry (if available) and serve.
Screwdriver Cocktail Video
In this video, I will show you how to make both a standard Screwdriver Cocktail and a Green Screwdriver Cocktail. Both variations are super popular drinks nowadays and extremely easy to make. If you are a fan of vodka-based cocktails, be sure to watch!
The Glassware
The glassware you see in these Screwdriver cocktail pictures here is part of my vintage barware collection. The style is known as Blendo and was made by two companies; West Virginia Glass Company and Anchor Hocking Glass in the 40/50/60’s. There are numerous pieces including roly-polys and pitchers as well. It’s a stunning collection that comes in a wide assortment of colors too!
They can often be found on eBay (click here to search for Blendo glassware) and other places such as Etsy.
Safe drinking!
~Mike
More cocktails
Looking for more vodka and orange juice cocktails? Try these:
Screwdriver Cocktail
- Prep Time
- 5 minutes
- Total Time
- 5 minutes
- Course
- Cocktail
- Cuisine
- Cocktail
- Servings
- 1
- Calories
- 149
- Author
- Karlynn Johnston
Ingredients
- 1.5 ounce Vodka
- 4-6 ounces Orange Juice
Instructions
- Combine ingredients in a glass with ice and stir.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
- Serve.
Recipe Video
Nutrition Information
All calories and info are based on a third party calculator and are only an estimate. Actual nutritional info will vary with brands used, your measuring methods, portion sizes and more.
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Jillian says
This is the first drink I ever had in a bar (legally, haha), because I didn’t know any other drinks, haha. So I just blurted it out so that people didn’t think I was lame. Embarrassing story aside, I was so taken aback by how much I loved this sweet, simple drink. I drank it a lot in my 20’s, but now that I’m 35 and I have probably had all of 15 drinks in the past 8 years give or take. Anyway, I had one again when I saw this post and I was so happy I did. I forgot how good this epic, simple and tasty cocktail tasted. If you have never had one, here is your sign saying you should!