Absolutly Screwed Up
A potent and effervescent twist on the classic Screwdriver. This citrus-forward highball combines lemon-flavored vodka with orange juice and triple sec, lengthened with a crisp ginger ale top. It is refreshing yet packs a punch.
What it tastes like
This drink leads with a sharp citrus aroma and carbonated ginger spice. The palate is sugary with heavy notes of orange and lemon pith. It has a bubbly, medium-bodied mouthfeel that transitions into a clean, sweet finish.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Absolut Citron Vodka1.5 oz
- Orange Juice1.5 oz
- Triple Sec1.5 oz
- Ginger Ale4 oz
Preparation
- 1
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- 2
Add the Absolut Citron, orange juice, and Triple Sec to the shaker.
- 3
Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
- 4
Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
- 5
Top with the ginger ale.
- 6
Stir gently to combine without losing carbonation.
Substitutions
- Absolut Citron VodkaUnflavored vodka and 0.25 oz fresh lemon juice — This maintains the acidic profile while providing a more natural citrus character.
- Triple SecCointreau — This increases the alcohol content and provides a drier, more intense orange flavor.
- Ginger AleGinger Beer — This adds a more aggressive spice and a sharper ginger bite to the finish.
- Orange JuiceGrapefruit Juice — This introduces a bitter, tart edge that balances the high sugar content of the modifiers.
Variations
Spiced Citrus Screw
Swap the citron vodka for spiced rum to introduce vanilla and cinnamon notes that complement the ginger.
Bittersweet Screw
Add two dashes of Angostura bitters to cut through the sweetness and add herbal depth to the orange base.