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Tequila Sunrise cocktail in a highball
SILVER TEQUILA · HIGHBALL · BUILD

Tequila Sunrise

★ 4.7 · 444 ratings in Cocktail Art

The Tequila Sunrise is a vibrant, sweet cocktail known for its beautiful layered look that mimics a summer sunrise. Combining silver tequila with fresh orange juice and a slow pour of sweet grenadine, this drink is refreshing and visually striking. It rose to massive popularity in the 1970s. Serve it at brunch, pool parties, or warm summer evenings.

  • IBA official
  • Long drink
  • Sweet
  • Refreshing
  • Classic
  • GlassHighball
  • MethodBuild
  • Time3 min
  • Strength≈ 11% ABV
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How to make a Tequila Sunrise

Build it in a highball with ice cubes. About 3 minutes.

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour 45 ml of silver tequila and 90 ml of orange juice directly into the glass.
  3. Slowly pour 15 ml of grenadine syrup down the inside of the glass so it settles at the bottom, creating a sunrise effect.
  4. Do not stir the drink to preserve the distinct color layers.
  5. Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

Bartender’s tips

  • Pour the grenadine slowly over the back of a spoon or down the side of the glass to help it sink to the bottom without mixing.
  • For a smokier variation, substitute the silver tequila with mezcal.
  • Use freshly squeezed orange juice for a brighter, cleaner flavor that balances the sweetness of the grenadine.

You may also like

If you enjoy the sweet and fruity flavors of the Tequila Sunrise, you might also want to try these four classic cocktails: Margarita, Almond Brother, Cranberry Margarita, and Long Island Ice Tea.

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Tequila Sunrise questions

Which spirit is used in a Tequila Sunrise?

This recipe uses 45 ml of silver tequila, which provides a clean and crisp base for the sweet fruit flavors.

How strong is a Tequila Sunrise?

The Tequila Sunrise is a relatively light long drink with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of about 11 percent.

Can I substitute the tequila?

Yes, you can substitute the silver tequila with mezcal to add a distinct smoky note to the cocktail.