Wallbanger Cocktail Recipe

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

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.

• 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

1. Fill a highball glass with ice
2. Add 1.5 oz of vodka
3. Pour in 4 oz of orange juice
4. Stir the mixture gently
5. Float 0.5 oz of Galliano on top
6. Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry

• 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

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.

• 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

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.