How Well Do You Know National Screwdriver Day?

National Screwdriver Day is celebrated annually on December 14th, dedicated to honoring the classic cocktail made with vodka and orange juice. It's a day for enthusiasts to enjoy and appreciate this simple yet iconic drink.

The screwdriver originated during World War II when Americans in China and Turkey mixed neutral spirits with orange juice, creating a simple and popular cocktail. The combination of vodka and orange juice became a classic, enduring through the years.

In the UK, a screwdriver is referred to as a "vodka and orange," highlighting the combination of vodka with orange juice in this classic drink. The name emphasizes the key ingredients that make this beverage universally recognized and enjoyed.

In the context of mixed drinks, a highball refers to a cocktail composed of an alcoholic base spirit and a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer. This term is essential for understanding the composition of various mixed beverages, including the screwdriver.

Vodka rose rapidly in popularity in America starting in the mid-1950s. This surge in popularity coincided with the rise of mixed drinks like the screwdriver. Advertising campaigns by vodka brands in the 1950s and 1960s further solidified its status as a favorite spirit.

The Harvey Wallbanger is made with vodka, Galliano, and orange juice. This iconic cocktail gained popularity in the US during the 1970s, thanks to its unique combination of ingredients, creating a distinct and flavorful mixed drink experience.

A "sloe comfortable screw" is made with two parts sloe gin, one part Southern Comfort, and filled with orange juice. The blend of these ingredients creates a delightful variation of the classic screwdriver with additional layers of flavor.

A "sloe comfortable screw up against the wall" includes sloe gin, Southern Comfort, Galliano, one part tequila, and filled with orange juice. This elaborate variation introduces new elements, offering a unique twist on the traditional screwdriver.

A "virgin screwdriver" is a non-alcoholic mocktail, usually made with orange juice and tonic water. This non-alcoholic variation allows individuals to enjoy the refreshing flavors of a screwdriver without the presence of alcohol.

An "Anita Bryant cocktail" substitutes apple juice for orange juice and is named after an anti-gay-rights activist as a response to a boycott. This creative variation emerged as a response to social and political events, adding a layer of meaning to the drink.