Tequila Sunrise: A Classic Burst of Colour

IBA Cocktail

The Tequila Sunrise is a classic for a reason. It’s a really nice-looking drink, with the colours blending together like a desert sunrise. Plus, it’s super refreshing, so it’s perfect for a warm day or hanging out with friends.

Tequila Sunrise: A Classic Burst of Colour

It’s a pretty simple drink, really. You’ve got Tequila as the base, then some Orange Juice, and a splash of Grenadine. The tequila gives it a bit of a kick, the orange juice adds sweetness and a citrusy taste, and then the grenadine does its thing. Since it’s heavier, it sinks to the bottom, and as it starts to mix with the orange juice, you get that sunrise effect. It’s a cool thing to watch.

Served in a tall highball glass, it looks great. The red at the bottom fading up into orange and then yellow is mesmerizing. This look, along with the refreshing taste, has made it popular for years. If you like sweet, fruity cocktails with a bit of tequila, you’ll probably enjoy this one. It’s a good choice for brunch, by the pool, or whenever you want a bit of colour in your glass. Should not surpise you that Tequila Sunrise is on the IBA official list of cocktails.

This cocktail’s popularity really took off in the 1970s. It became a kind of symbol of the relaxed, colourful vibe of that time. The bright colours and refreshing taste made it a party favourite. And it’s still popular today because it looks good and tastes good. It’s a good choice for anyone who wants a drink that’s both beautiful and refreshing. So, if you’re looking for a drink that’s easy to make and looks amazing, the Tequila Sunrise is definitely worth a try. It’s a classic for a reason, and it’s sure to add a bit of sunshine to any occasion.

This iconic cocktail is as refreshing as it is visually stunning.

Did you know that Tequila Sunrise...

This drink’s even been in movies. Remember Tequila Sunrise with Mel Gibson? That’s the one. It’s also been in songs by the Eagles and Cypress Hill, which shows how it’s become part of popular culture.

Who invented this cocktail

Gene Sulit, a bartender at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona, came up with the Tequila Sunrise sometime in the 1930s or 1940s. The original version was a little different – it used Tequila, Crème de Cassis, Lime Juice, and Soda Water.

The origin and history of "Tequila Sunrise"

The Tequila Sunrise we drink today isn't exactly the same as Gene’s original. The recipe changed in the 70s, becoming the orange juice and grenadine mix we all know. It really took off back then.

It was a big hit in the 70s, a kind of symbol of the relaxed, colourful style of that time. The bright colours and refreshing taste made it a party favourite. It’s still popular now because it looks and tastes good.

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Bartender Tips for making the perfect "Tequila Sunrise"

Want to make a Tequila Sunrise at home? Here are some tips:
  • Use good Tequila – it makes a difference.
  • Fresh Orange Juice is always best.
  • To get that sunrise effect, pour the Grenadine slowly down the side of the glass. Don’t stir it!
  • Don’t stir after adding the Grenadine, or the colours will mix.
  • An orange slice and a cherry are a nice touch.

Tequila Sunrise recipe

Prep: 5 minTotal: 7 min

Ingredients

  • 45 ml TEQUILA
  • 90 ml ORANGE JUICE
  • 15 ml GRENADINE SYRUP
  • 1½ oz TEQUILA
  • 3 oz ORANGE JUICE
  • ½ oz GRENADINE SYRUP

Garnish

  • ORANGE SLICE
  • MARASCHINO CHERRY

Preparation

  1. Prepare the glass with some ice
  2. Add all the ingredients except the last into a shaker
  3. Shake well with ice
  4. Strain into the glass
  5. Slowly pour the Grenadine over the top of the drink
  6. Garnish and serve

Nutritional Info

  • Calories:194 kcal
  • Alcohol units:1.8 units
  • ABV (Alcohol By Volume)~12%

Dietary Info

VeganVegetarianGluten-freeDairy-free
Country of origin: Mexico

"Tequila Sunrise" Variations

  • Tequila Sunset: Uses Blackberry Brandy instead of Grenadine for a darker red at the bottom.
  • Caribbean Sunrise: Uses Rum instead of Tequila.
  • Vodka Sunrise: Uses Vodka instead of Tequila.
  • Rasta Sunrise: Adds Blue Curaçao for a green layer.
  • Amaretto Sunrise: Uses Amaretto instead of Tequila.

With its great look and refreshing taste, the Tequila Sunrise is still a favourite. It’s a solid choice for any occasion.

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Current Comments: 3

Isabella F.
Mar 28, 2024
A bit too sweet for my taste. I'll try reducing the grenadine next time to achieve a better balance.
Noah D.
Mar 21, 2024
Perfect for a summer party. The combination of tequila and orange juice was great, and the grenadine added a nice sweetness.
Samantha L.
Mar 14, 2024
Visually stunning and delicious! The gradient of colors was beautiful, and the flavors were sweet and refreshing.