When it comes to iconic vodka cocktails, few are as instantly recognizable — or easy to make — as the Screwdriver. With just two ingredients, it’s the ultimate example of how quality matters. A clean, smooth vodka like Illadelph Organic Vodka and freshly squeezed orange juice are all you need to create something bright, refreshing, and totally timeless.
The Screwdriver’s exact origin is a little hazy, but most stories trace it back to American oil workers in the Middle East during the mid-20th century. Legend has it that they secretly spiked their orange juice with vodka and stirred it using — you guessed it — a screwdriver.
Since then, this easy mix has become a go-to for brunch, beach bars, and anywhere vodka lovers want something citrusy and chill without the fuss.
The Screwdriver’s appeal is universal. It’s said to have been a favorite of Frank Sinatra during the Rat Pack era and remained a pop culture staple through the 70s and 80s. Today, it’s still one of the most ordered vodka cocktails worldwide — especially when people want something easy and reliable.
Classic Screwdriver Recipe
Fill a highball glass with ice.
Pour in Illadelph Vodka.
Top with fresh orange juice.
Stir gently.
Garnish with an orange slice if desired. Serve and enjoy.
Because the Screwdriver is all about clean, simple flavor, the quality of your vodka really matters. Illadelph Organic Vodka is ultra-pure and incredibly smooth, allowing the bright citrus notes to shine without any harshness or aftertaste.
If you’re keeping it classic, keep it classy — and always make your Screwdriver with Illadelph Vodka.
A Screwdriver is one of the simplest and most popular vodka cocktails — just vodka and orange juice over ice. It’s bright, citrusy, and extremely easy to enjoy anytime.
Legend says American oil workers in the Middle East secretly added vodka to their orange juice and stirred it with a screwdriver when spoons weren’t available. The name stuck — and went global.
A clean and smooth vodka like Illadelph Organic Vodka keeps the drink refreshing, letting the fresh orange flavors shine through.
It depends on the orange juice — fresh-squeezed makes it full-bodied with natural citrus sweetness, while bottled juices can be sweeter or more tart depending on the brand.
Fresh orange juice greatly improves the taste — richer aroma, more brightness, and less added sugar. It can completely elevate this two-ingredient classic.
Common ratios range from 1:2 to 1:3 (vodka:orange juice). More juice makes it smooth and brunch-friendly; more vodka makes it stronger for late-night events.
Moderately strong — very easy to sip because the orange juice hides alcohol intensity. It’s a “smooth operator,” so pacing is key.
Yes! Add peach schnapps for a Fuzzy Navel twist, or use blood orange juice for a richer, more dramatic color.
Absolutely. Chill vodka — like Illadelph — and orange juice in a pitcher, then pour over fresh ice when serving for maximum freshness.
It’s a brunch mainstay, especially for summer weekends, but also works as a light evening cocktail.
Totally — just orange juice over ice with a splash of sparkling water to add bubbles and balance the sweetness.
A simple orange wheel or slice adds nice citrus aroma and a more polished presentation.
