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Tequila sunrise Recipe
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mixPHD - Tequila Trailblazer
Highball
Jan 01, 2023
1 min

Tequila sunrise Recipe

Tequila sunrise Recipe

Get ready to experience the legendary Tequila-Sunrise – a Mixed Drink that’s not just a cocktail, but a vibrant masterpiece in a glass! This iconic Tall Drink perfectly captures the essence of a radiant morning sky, blending the bright, zesty kick of premium tequila with the sweet, sun-kissed notes of fresh orange juice. The magic truly unfolds as a beautiful ribbon of grenadine syrup sinks gracefully to the bottom, creating that stunning, namesake 'sunrise effect'. It's a truly Sweetened delight, designed to whisk your taste buds away to a tropical paradise with every refreshing sip. If you love a drink that's both visually spectacular and bursting with flavor, this Tequila-Sunrise is your perfect match!

Tequila sunrise

The Perfect Tequila sunrise

This classic cocktail is particularly beloved for its unique blend of flavors and elegant presentation.

What Makes It Special

  • Tall Drink
  • Served Over Ice
  • Stirred
  • Tequila
  • Mixed Drink
  • Orange Juice
  • Sweetened
  • Highball

Ingredients (Serves 1)

  • 9 cl (6 parts) Orange Juice
  • 1.5 cl (1 part) Grenadine Syrup

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. First, grab your favorite Collins glass and fill it generously with ice. This Tequila-Sunrise is absolutely meant to be Served Over Ice for maximum chill!
  2. Next, carefully pour in the tequila, followed by the vibrant orange juice, right over the ice.
  3. Now for the artistic touch: slowly drizzle the grenadine syrup down the side of the glass. Watch in delight as it gracefully sinks to the bottom, forming those beautiful red and orange layers, just like a rising sun.
  4. Finally, for that perfect 'sunrise' blending, give it a very gentle Stirred action. A little swirl is all it takes to meld the flavors while preserving the visual appeal. Garnish and serve immediately to enjoy the show!

The History Behind the Recipe

The Tequila-Sunrise, a true icon of the cocktail world, is said to have originated in the early 1970s, making its splashy debut in Sausalito, California. Legend has it that two young bartenders at the Trident bar experimented with tequila and various mixers, aiming to create a visually stunning and refreshingly easy-drinking cocktail for their rock-and-roll clientele. Its vibrant, layered appearance quickly made it a poolside and party favorite, capturing the carefree spirit of the era. Soon, its popularity soared, thanks in part to musicians like The Rolling Stones and The Eagles, who reportedly embraced it during their tours. This simple yet dazzling Mixed Drink swiftly became synonymous with summer fun and laid-back vibes, cementing its place as a timeless classic.

Presentation and Visual Appeal

Imagine a tall, slender Collins glass filled to the brim with glistening ice. Within, a vibrant cascade of liquid sunshine: bright, golden orange juice dominating the top, while a deep, ruby-red grenadine gracefully settles at the bottom, creating a captivating gradient that mimics a real sunrise. The drink, when gently stirred, offers a mesmerizing swirl of colors, beckoning you closer. Often garnished with a cheerful orange slice perched on the rim or a bright red cherry nestled among the ice, this Tequila-Sunrise isn't just a drink; it's a feast for the eyes, promising refreshment even before the first sip.

Pro Tips and Variations

This delightful Highball is traditionally Served On the Rocks, ensuring every sip is perfectly chilled. While a Collins glass is the go-to for its tall elegance, a standard highball glass works just as beautifully. For an extra touch of flair, try garnishing with an orange wheel or a maraschino cherry – or both! To make this a fantastic option for everyone, even for those seeking a Non-Alcoholic treat, simply omit the tequila for a delicious 'Sunrise' mocktail that still boasts all the amazing Juice flavors. It's truly a versatile and Sweetened classic!

This cocktail embodies the essence of classic mixology – simple ingredients combined with expert technique to create something truly extraordinary.

Last updated: January 24, 2026

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