Wallbanger Cocktail Recipe
Wallbanger Nutrition Facts
Calories:220
Fat:0g
Protein:1g
Carbohydrates:28g
Alcohol:14%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Harvey Wallbanger is a classic cocktail that gained popularity in the 1970s. It is said to have been created by bartender Donato 'Duke' Antone in Hollywood, California. The drink was named after a surfer named Tom Harvey, who would frequently order the cocktail and then 'bang' into the walls of the bar after having a few too many.
- The cocktail is a variation of the Screwdriver, with the addition of Galliano
- It became popular in the 1970s and was a staple at parties and discos
- The Harvey Wallbanger has made a comeback in recent years, with bartenders putting their own spin on the classic recipe
How Wallbanger Tastes?
The Harvey Wallbanger has a sweet, citrusy, and slightly herbal taste. The combination of vodka, orange juice, and Galliano creates a refreshing and well-balanced flavor profile.
Interesting facts about Wallbanger
- The Harvey Wallbanger is often associated with the '70s disco scene
- The cocktail's name is said to come from a surfer who would 'bang' into walls after drinking it
- The drink is a variation of the Screwdriver, with the addition of Galliano
Ingredients
- Vodka: 1.5 oz(45ml)
- Orange juice: 4 oz(120ml)
- Galliano: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Ice: As needed
- Orange slice: 1
- Maraschino cherry: 1
A few good options for Wallbanger are:
- Grey Goose
- Belvedere
- Khor
- Smirnoff
Vodka
Vodka provides a clean, neutral base that allows the flavors of the other ingredients to shine. Using the specified 1.5 oz strikes a balance, ensuring the cocktail isn't too boozy or weak. Too little and the drink lacks kick; too much and it overpowers the sweetness. If you're out of vodka, consider white rum for a twist – it'll add a subtle sugarcane note.
Alex Green
Orange Juice
The 4 oz of orange juice adds a fresh and fruity sweetness, creating a harmonious blend with the vodka. It's the perfect amount for a refreshing taste without making the drink too diluted. Without it, you'd miss the 'screwdriver' base of the drink. As an alternative, try blood orange or grapefruit juice for a different citrus profile.
Emma Rose
Galliano
At 0.5 oz, Galliano lends a hint of vanilla and anise, without overwhelming the core flavors of the drink. It's the signature touch, so omitting it would mean it's no longer a Wallbanger. If you want to experiment, try substituting with a vanilla or anise liqueur, but the unique Galliano flavor is hard to replicate.
Mary Mitkina
Ice
As needed to chill and lightly dilute the drink maintaining a balanced taste. No ice means a warm, strong cocktail; too much ice waters it down. It's more about temperature control and less about flavor alteration.
Alex Green
Orange Slice
The orange slice garnish adds a touch of elegance and an extra hint of citrus aroma upon each sip. It's also a visual cue for the orange juice within. No slice, no problem—just less fancy.
Emma Rose
Maraschino Cherry
A maraschino cherry tops off the drink with a pop of color and a dash of sweetness, bridging the flavors together. Without it, you'd miss a classic garnish, but the drink's essence remains. Swap with another sweet fruit like a pineapple chunk if you're feeling tropical.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Wallbanger Drink
- Fill a highball glass with ice
- Add 1.5 oz of vodka
- Pour in 4 oz of orange juice
- Stir the mixture gently
- Float 0.5 oz of Galliano on top
- Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry
Pro Tips
- Always use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor
- Add the Galliano last to create a layered effect
- Serve in a highball glass for the traditional Wallbanger experience
Perfect Pairings
Food Pairings
- Brunch items: The citrusy and refreshing nature of the Wallbanger makes it an ideal companion for brunch dishes like eggs benedict, frittatas, or smoked salmon on toast.
- Light Appetizers: Complement the Wallbanger with delicate appetizers like shrimp cocktails, caprese salad, or prosciutto-wrapped melon.
- Savory Crepes: The sweet and herbal hints from the Galliano can be nicely balanced with savory crepes filled with ham and cheese or spinach and mushroom.
Drinks Pairings
- Coffee: Enjoy a brunch setting with a side of coffee to complement the sweet and fruity notes of the cocktail.
- Sparkling Water: A glass of sparkling water on the side can cleanse the palate between sips of this sweet and herbaceous drink.
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What you could change in Wallbanger
- Vodka: Can be replaced with any other clear spirit like gin or tequila
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice can be replaced with store-bought orange juice
- Galliano: If not available, can be replaced with another herbal liqueur like Strega or Yellow Chartreuse
Explore all drinks starting with W here
And of course - twists🍹
Espresso Wallbanger
- Ingredients: Same as original, with the addition of 0.5 oz of cold espresso.
- Recipe: Follow the original recipe, but add the espresso after the orange juice. The coffee will add a bold depth and slightly bitter counterpoint to the sweet and herbal notes, ideal for coffee lovers seeking a caffeinated kick in their cocktail.
Spicy Wallbanger
- Ingredients: Same as original, but add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small slice of jalapeño.
- Recipe: Muddle the pepper or jalapeño slice with the vodka before adding the other ingredients. This will infuse the drink with a spicy twist, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their sweetness.
Bitter Wallbanger
- Ingredients: Same as original, plus 0.5 oz Campari.
- Recipe: Pour Campari into the glass after the vodka and before the orange juice. Stir gently. The Campari adds a bitter and herbal complexity, offering a counterbalance to the drink's inherent sweetness and making it more suitable for an aperitif.
In case you forgot basics how to make Wallbanger
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
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Frequently Asked Questions on Wallbanger
What is the best temperature to serve the Wallbanger?
The Wallbanger is best served cold. Since the recipe includes ice, it's ensured that the cocktail will be chilled when served.
What's the perfect time to enjoy a Wallbanger?
As it's a refreshing drink, it's usually enjoyed during warm weather or at summer parties. But, it's a versatile cocktail and can be had at any time of the year.
Does orange juice in Wallbanger provide any health benefits?
Orange juice is high in vital nutrients and antioxidants. However, consuming it in a cocktail should be done in moderation due to its high sugar content and the alcohol involved.
Can Wallbanger be made in large batches for parties?
Yes. Just scale up the recipe keeping the proportions the same and ensure it is kept cold.
What does the Galliano add to the taste of the Wallbanger?
Galliano has a unique flavour profile that includes anise, juniper, musk yarrow, and lavender. These notes add depth and complexity to the Wallbanger, making it more than just a simple vodka and orange juice cocktail.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Wallbanger?
Yes, you can replace the vodka with plain or flavored seltzer water or club soda and the Galliano with a non-alcoholic herbal infusion.
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