"ClassicCocktails" news and stories

Harvey Wallbanger cupcakes. Photo: cupcakequeen, Flickr.

Happy National Harvey Wallbanger Day!

Though vodka may be the dominant alcohol of this classic cocktail by pure mass, the drink is differentiated by its distinct layer of Galliano on top.

For those of you wondering how this fancified screwdriver came about, there are three tales of varying interest. The first is simple and straightforward: It was created by bartender Bill Doner at "The Office" bar in Newport Beach, California.

The second is preferable to recount to friends over drinks: California surfer Harvey enjoyed his screwdrivers topped with a vanilla layer of Galliano. After a particularly boozy afternoon following a loss at a surf competition, Harvey overindulged on drinks, and, consequently, stumbled into walls and furniture on his way out the door. As a bar regular, he -- and his drink -- became known as Harvey Wallbanger.

And finally, famed bartender and three-time world champion mixologist Donato "Duke" Antone is purported to have invented the drink in 1952 -- for another thirsty surfer prone to inebriated stumbling -- at his Hollywood bar, "Blackwatch."

After an aggressive advertising campaign for Galliano -- which featured a goofy cartoon character dubbed Harvey -- the drink again gained popularity, reaching its heyday in the 1970s as the essential brunch staple of the era. Though it's often overlooked in recent times, it's still a classic worth enjoying year-round.

The Harvey Wallbanger

Ingredients

- 1 1/2 oz. vodka
- 6 oz. orange juice
- 1/2 oz. Galliano
- Orange slice

Mix the vodka and orange juice in a mixing glass with ice, then strain into a cold highball glass -- the temperature will help allow the Galliano to float on top. Once the orange juice base has settled, carefully serve the Galliano on top, creating a floating layer. Garnish with an orange slice if you're feeling fancy.