The Origins and Variations of the Screwdriver Cocktail

How Did a Vodka and Orange Juice Cocktail Come to Be Called a Screwdriver?

The origin of the name for the screwdriver cocktail is a matter of debate, but one popular story suggests that the name came from the workers who, lacking spoons, would use screwdrivers to stir their drinks. This simple act became a part of a fun cocktail lore, making the cocktail known as a screwdriver. However, it's worth noting that cocktail names can sometimes be challenging to trace, and various stories may circulate. Regardless of its precise origin, the screwdriver has become a popular and classic cocktail.

Common Explanations for the Name

Curtis Childress, in his account, mentions that oil workers in the Persian Gulf were known for discreetly adding vodka to orange juice and stirring it with screwdrivers. Another common anecdote is that mechanics and other workers often use a clean screwdriver or a wiped-off one as a makeshift stirrer for their drinks. As Curtis says, "Just about every mechanic I’ve known has used a clean screwdriver or at least one wiped-off with a dirty shirt tail to stir coffee soup or whatever. I’ve done it many times myself when my stirring finger was dirtier than a handy screwdriver."

The First Recorded Use of the Term

The first recorded use of the term "screwdriver" for the vodka and orange juice cocktail is attributed to 1938. Based on the memories of the author's dad, who had screwdrivers back in 1942 when he was in college, the 1938 date seems to fit well.

A Special Variation: The Phillips Screwdriver

Within the simple cocktail, there is one variation that truly stands out: the Phillips Screwdriver. This concoction isn't just about the mix of vodka, orange juice, and a bit of milk of magnesia—it's about the experience. One drinker described it as something that goes down smooth, earning it a famous shout-out in the hit TV show MASH, where Colonel Potter commented, "There aren’t enough O’s in SMOOoooth to describe how smooth it is!"

The Phillips Screwdriver is made by stirring a full shot of Phillip's Milk of Magnesia into the standard screwdriver. It not only goes down much smoother but can also come with unique effects. If you're in a situation where someone is ruining your evening, a Phillips Screwdriver can be the perfect solution. As MASH’s Colonel Potter would say, "In about 15 minutes, the party will be over for that person!"

Conclusion

The screwdriver cocktail, whether it's the traditional or the Phillips variant, has a rich history behind its name and unique characteristics. Its smooth taste and potential to resolve certain situations make it a classic and often humorous cocktail. Cheers to enjoying it responsibly!