The Harvey Wallbanger is a classic cocktail, perfect for brunch. It’s a spin off the Screwdriver with the addition of Galliano (an Italian liqueur). This cocktail was created by bartender Donato “Duke” Antone, who owned Duke’s Blackwatch Bar in Hollywood in the 1950s. It was at this Sunset Boulevard location in 1952 that Antone created the recipe.

It rose in popularity in the 1970s when marketing director George Bednar created a campaign that made this cocktail a household name. His surfer-themed ad had the tagline, “Harvey Wallbanger is the name, and I can be made!”

More breakfast cocktails: Bloody Mary, Tequila Sunrise, Espresso Martini, Irish Coffee, Peach Bellini.

Ingredients in a Harvey Wallbanger

• Vodka – Choose a high quality, mid-priced vodka.
• Galliano L’Autentico Liqueur – This adds a more complex flavor to this recipe.
• Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed if possible.
• Orange Slice and Cherry – Optional garnishes.

What is Galliano L’Autentico liquor?

Galliano is a liqueur made with vanilla and a mixture of herbs and spices, which includes juniper, lavender, star anise and cinnamon. It contains 42.3% alcohol content (alcohol-by-volume). Despite its high proof, the common advice is that a little goes a long way and the half ounce contained in this recipe is all you need to enhance the flavor of this cocktail.

Instructions

You won’t even need a cocktail shaker to make this recipe—you can build it right in the glass.

In a glass with ice, mix vodka, Galliano and orange juice. Stir to mix.

Garnish with a slice of orange and a maraschino cherry.

Tips for Making

• Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the freshest drink possible.
• There is really no substitution for Galliano liqueur in this recipe, although many other liquors would be a fine addition to a screwdriver cocktail.
• Optional garnish ideas: fresh mint leaves, a sprig of rosemary or an orange twist.

Recipe Variations

• Freddy Fudpucker – If you swap the vodka for tequila, you will have a Freddy Fudpucker cocktail.
• Screwdriver – If you omit the Galliano liqueur, you will have a Screwdriver.

FAQ