The BarCraft Screwdriver Mixer gives you a bright orange cocktail base in a bottle. Pour 30ml of mixer, add 30 - 45ml of vodka or another spirit, top with chilled soda and ice. No oranges to squeeze, no juice to go off in the fridge.
A classic Screwdriver is two ingredients: vodka and orange juice. So why bother with a mixer? Because orange juice is the part that varies. Some days it's fresh and bright, other days it's the last of a carton that's been open too long. A mixer fixes the flavour, so the drink doesn't depend on your fridge.
How does it taste?
The label calls it "Bright Orange Burst" and describes it as juicy sweet orange with fresh citrus acidity and subtle peel notes. The peel note is the interesting bit. It gives the drink a slightly bitter, aromatic edge you don't always get from plain juice, which keeps it from tasting like breakfast.
How do you make a Screwdriver with it?
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in 30ml of BarCraft Screwdriver Mixer.
- Add 30 - 45ml of your preferred spirit.
- Finish with chilled soda.
- Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
Because the soda lifts it, the drink is lighter and fizzier than a classic juice Screwdriver. That's a good thing on a hot afternoon, but if you want something closer to the original, use a smaller glass and less soda.
Which spirit should you choose?
Vodka is the classic. It's clean, so the orange stays in front. Tequila gives a warmer, earthier drink that tastes a bit like a fizzy sunrise. Gin works too, because citrus and juniper get along well. If you're not sure, start with vodka.
Good moments for a Screwdriver
It's a natural brunch drink, and it's an easy one for parties because it's familiar and nobody argues about it. It also pairs well with light food: egg dishes, sandwiches, salads and anything with a bit of salt.
Is there an alcohol-free version?
Yes. Use 30ml of mixer and about 200 - 250ml of chilled soda over ice, and add an orange slice. It's a pleasant orange soda with a more grown-up edge. You'll find it in the Screwdriver recipes as the Virgin Screwdriver.
What does the nutrition label say?
Per 100ml, the mixer has about 160 kcal and 28g of sugars, so a 15ml serve is roughly 24 kcal and 4g of sugar. The label also lists a sweetener (sucralose), preservatives and natural and nature-identical flavouring substances. Read the full panel on the pack, particularly if you're watching sugar.
How much will a bottle make?
At 15ml per serve, the 600ml bottle makes about 20 drinks and the 60ml bottle makes 2. Start with the small one if you're not sure about the flavour. Both are on the Screwdriver Mixer page.
Screwdriver mixer FAQ
Do I need orange juice as well?
No. The mixer and soda are enough.
What spirit is best?
Vodka is the classic. Tequila and gin also work.
Is it as strong as a normal Screwdriver?
It depends on your pour. The label serve uses 30 - 45ml of spirit.
Can I make it for a crowd?
Yes. Mix 30 - 45ml spirit with 30ml mixer in a jug, chill, and add about 200 - 250ml of chilled soda before serving to make around 10 drinks.
Can children have the mocktail version?
It contains sugar, sweetener and preservatives, so check the label and use your judgement.
Please drink responsibly. Do not drink and drive.