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If you grew up in the ’70s/’80s, the first you heard of a Harvey Wallbanger cocktail may have been as a pun on a sitcom. This cocktail was in vogue for a while in the ’70s, but it faded into obscurity after that.

But it’s a classic cocktail that’s stood the test of time, due to its unique blend of flavors and its retro charm. Originating in the 1950s, this iconic drink has become a beloved staple in bars and homes around the world.

This drink is basically a Screwdriver (orange juice with vodka) with the addition of Galliano. If you’ve never had Galliano, it’s a liqueur which tastes mainly like vanilla with anise. But it also has citrus and other herbal notes. It’s a very complicated flavor.

And it’s definitely something you have to try before you’ll know if you like it, so if you’ve never had Galliano, you may want to order a Harvey Wallbanger at a bar before buying the Galliano to make it at home.

The Origins of the Harvey Wallbanger

The Harvey Wallbanger cocktail was introduced in 1969 by McKesson Imports Company to promote Galliano and boost its sales. The character of the Harvey Wallbanger was portrayed as a surfer and featured in different advertisements throughout the campaign. References can be traced back to print media as far back as 1969, extending into the 1970s.

What’s In a Harvey Wallbanger

The Harvey Wallbanger is a relatively straightforward cocktail. The original recipe was a simple yet delicious combination of vodka, Galliano (a sweet, herbal Italian liqueur), and orange juice.

Vodka

The foundation of is a quality vodka. When selecting a vodka for your Harvey Wallbanger, opt for a high-quality brand that won’t overpower the other ingredients.

Galliano

Galliano is the star of the show. This Italian liqueur is known for its distinctive yellow color and its complex, herbal flavor profile.

Galliano is made from a blend of botanicals, including vanilla, anise, and a variety of other herbs and spices. Its unique taste adds a layer of depth and richness to the cocktail.

Orange Juice

The final key ingredient in a Harvey Wallbanger is fresh-squeezed orange juice. The citrusy tang of the orange juice balances out the sweetness of the Galliano, creating a refreshing and well-rounded flavor profile.

A Note on the Float

Supposedly, the Galliano will look different from the orange juice and vodka it floats on, but that has never been my experience.

Presentation Tips

The Harvey Wallbanger is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed in any setting from casual backyard gatherings to upscale cocktail parties.

Glassware

The traditional serving vessel for a Harvey Wallbanger is a highball or collins glass. These tall, slender glasses make it look terrific and inviting.

Garnishes

While the orange slice and cherry garnish is a classic choice, you can also experiment with other citrus garnishes, such as a wedge of grapefruit or a twist of lemon peel. These additional garnishes can help to further enhance the drink’s citrusy notes and visual appeal.

Pairing with Food

The Harvey Wallbanger’s sweet and tangy flavors make it a great pairing for a variety of foods. Consider serving it alongside light, summery dishes like salads, seafood, or grilled meats. The cocktail’s acidity can also help to cut through the richness of richer, more indulgent fare.

Serving Temperature

For the best possible experience, it’s important to serve the Harvey Wallbanger well-chilled. Be sure to use plenty of ice in the glass and consider pre-chilling the glassware to ensure the drink remains refreshing and crisp.

Sipping and Savoring

The Harvey Wallbanger is a cocktail meant to be sipped and savored. Take your time to appreciate the layered flavors and the visual appeal of the drink. Engage your senses and enjoy the experience of this classic cocktail.

Harvey Wallbanger Cocktail Recipe

Yield: 1 drink

Prep Time: 3 minutes

Total Time: 3 minutes

Indulge in the retro charm of the classic Harvey Wallbanger cocktail with our detailed recipe guide. Learn how to create this iconic drink at home!

Ingredients

2 oz vodka
1 oz Galliano
4 oz fresh orange juice
Orange slice for garnish

Instructions

Fill a highball or collins glass with ice cubes.
Add the vodka.
Add the orange juice.
Gently pour the Galliano over the back of a spoon, allowing it to float on top
of the orange juice.
Place a fresh orange slice on the rim of the glass with a maraschino cherry to add a touch of citrusy flair.
Serve and enjoy!