Print Options:

Tequila Sunrise

Yields1 Serving

The Tequila Sunrise is a visually stunning and easy-to-make cocktail that mimics the colors of a sunrise. Made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, this drink is both refreshing and visually striking, making it perfect for brunch, summer parties, or casual sipping.

Tequila Sunrise

Ingredients
 2 oz Tequila (Recommended: Blanco or Reposado)
 4 oz Fresh Orange Juice (freshly squeezed for optimal flavor)
 ½ oz Grenadine
 Ice Cubes
 Orange Slice
 Maraschino Cherry
Equipment
1

  • Highball glass or Collins glass

  • Bar spoon

  • Jigger or measuring shot glass

Instructions
2

  1. Prepare the Glass:

    • Fill a highball glass with ice and set aside.

  2. Pour the Tequila and Orange Juice:

    • Add 2 oz tequila to the glass over ice.

    • Top with 4 oz fresh orange juice and gently stir to combine.

  3. Add the Grenadine:

    • Slowly pour 0.5 oz grenadine over the back of a bar spoon or down the side of the glass.

    • The grenadine will sink to the bottom, creating a layered sunrise effect.

  4. Garnish and Serve:

    • Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

    • Serve immediately and allow the guest to stir, mixing the layers to taste.

Serving and Presentation
3

  • The Tequila Sunrise is traditionally served in a tall highball or Collins glass to showcase the striking color gradient from red to orange.

  • The drink is named for its resemblance to a sunrise, with the grenadine creating the appearance of the sun rising through the orange juice.

Pairing Suggestions
4

  • Appetizers: Spicy nachos, shrimp ceviche, or guacamole and chips.

  • Main Course: Fish tacos, grilled chicken with citrus salsa, or blackened fish.

  • Dessert: Orange sorbet, pineapple upside-down cake, or coconut flan.

Tips and Variations
5

  • Sweeter Tequila Sunrise: Add a splash of simple syrup for extra sweetness.

  • Stronger Tequila Sunrise: Increase the tequila to 3 oz for a more potent drink.

  • Frozen Tequila Sunrise: Blend all the ingredients with ice for a refreshing slushy version.

  • Spicy Tequila Sunrise: Add a few drops of chili bitters or muddle a slice of jalapeño for a spicy kick.

  • Non-Alcoholic Sunrise: Replace the tequila with coconut water or a splash of club soda for a refreshing mocktail version.

Cocktail Trivia
6

  • The Tequila Sunrise was created in the 1930s in Arizona, but the modern version was popularized in the 1970s by a bartender at the Trident bar in Sausalito, California.

  • The cocktail gained widespread fame after being featured in the Rolling Stones’ 1972 American tour, where it became their official tour drink.

Nutrition Facts

0 servings

Serving size