Tequila Sunrise
The Tequila Sunrise cocktail is a bright two-toned drink, similar to the sunrise in its appearance.
The infamous and beautiful Tequila Sunrise uses only three ingredients; tequila, grenadine and orange juice. It is served unmixed to preserve the colour of each layer.
The recipe for the Tequila Sunrise cocktail was invented in the 1930s by the bartenders of the Arizona Biltmore Hotel.
The drink became famous thanks to the rock band The Rolling Stones. During their tour of the United States in 1972, the band regularly drank a Tequila Sunrise (or two!).
- Total Time:
- Type: Cocktail
- Units: 2
Equipment
- Highball glass
Ingredients
- 45 ml tequila
- 15 ml grenadine syrup
- 90 ml orange juice
- 1 orange slice
- 1 cherry
Instructions
- Add the tequila and the orange juice to a chilled highball glass previously filled with ice.
- Top the liquid with the grenadine. Let it settle. It should sink to the bottom of the glass, creating a layered effect.
- Garnish with an orange slice and serve.
FAQ
What is a Tequila Sunrise?
It’s a layered cocktail made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine. The grenadine sinks and creates a sunrise-like gradient in the glass.
Do I need to stir it?
No. The layered effect is the visual hallmark of this cocktail. Stirring will muddy the colours.
What type of tequila should I use?
A blanco (silver) tequila is traditional, offering a clean, agave-forward profile that balances well with the sweetness of the juice and syrup.
Can I make it less sweet?
Yes. Use freshly squeezed orange juice and reduce the grenadine. You could also add a splash of soda water to lighten it.
Is it a strong drink?
Not particularly. It’s light and fruity, making it an approachable cocktail for most drinkers.
When did it become popular?
Although an early version dates back to the 1930s, the modern Tequila Sunrise became famous in the 1970s thanks to rock bands like the Rolling Stones.