If you've ever wondered what bars use that triangular bottle of yellow liquor for (Galliano), it's the decidedly disco-era Harvey Wallbanger. In fact, the Wallbanger is one of that decade's iconic drinks. Whether the drink was actually invented in the 1970s is a subject of much debate. One oft-disputed theory places the cocktail's origins in 1950s-era Los Angeles. Another, more reliable origin story, traces the recipe to Galliano's importer, McKesson Imports Company, sometime in the early 1960s. Here's a fact that's not in dispute: a Harvey Wallbanger is CB lingo for a drunk driver.
The ingredients in a Harvey Wallbanger consist of vodka, fresh orange juice, and Galliano, an Italian herbal liqueur.
Why is it called a Harvey Wallbanger?
According to 1970s folklore, the Harvey Wallbanger was invented by Los Angeles bartender Donato “Duke” Antone for Tom Harvey, a surfer and then-regular at his bar, the Blackwatch. Harvey allegedly got so intoxicated after drinking a few of the concoctions that he started banging into walls, thus giving the drink its name.
The Vodka Gimlet:
With just three simple ingredients, the Vodka Gimlet is an easy go-to for home bartenders and professionals alike. See the recipe here!
The Citrus Salty Dog Recipe:
The classic Salty Dog cocktail gets an addition of tart and complex kumquats. The perfect cocktail to pair with specialty flavored salts.
French Martini:
This French Martini uses pineapple juice and a splash of Raspberry Liqueur to make the perfect vehicle for your favorite vodka, Ketel One.
The Marshmallow Mule Recipe:
This recipe from Emily Vikre's "Camp Cocktails" mixes vodka and soda with toasted marshmallow and ginger syrup, "perfect for when you’re at the cabin."
The Bloody Caesar Recipe:
The Bloody Caesar is a riff on the Bloody Mary, but with a briny twist. It calls for Clamato juice, a mixture of tomato juice and clam broth.