Tequila Sunrise Cocktail Drink

A Tequila Sunrise is a simple cocktail built with three main ingredients: tequila, orange juice and grenadine syrup that settles at the bottom to create the sunrise look. It’s served over ice in a tall glass and traditionally left unmixed so the colours stay layered.

Fill a tall glass with ice, pour in the tequila and fresh orange juice, then slowly add the grenadine so it sinks to the bottom and creates a gradient. Do not stir after the grenadine goes in and garnish with an orange slice or cherry before serving.

Choose a blanco (silver) tequila that’s 100% agave for the best clean fresh flavour that pairs well with citrus. Avoid very cheap mixto tequilas as they can taste harsh and take away from the drink’s balance. We've tried and tested different ones so we'll only recommend something based on our own experience.

The signature sunrise effect happens because grenadine is denser than the other ingredients, so pour it slowly down the side or over a spoon after the tequila and juice are added. Stirring after pouring the grenadine will mix the colours instead of letting them settle. By following these instructions you will get that aesthetic look that makes for great photos.

Absolutely, you can skip the tequila and use extra orange juice or a splash of soda water with grenadine for the same layered look and sweetness, making a refreshing mocktail version with ease. This is what we do when we serve this to our guests so even kids can enjoy them.

Most people find that freshly squeezed orange juice tastes brighter and more balanced than carton juice helping lift the simple flavours of this cocktail. We've tested this many times and always get great feedback whenever using freshly squeezed vs ready made juice.

Using good quality grenadine (pomegranate based) instead of artificial syrup and fresh juice really improves flavour and some people add a tiny squeeze of lime to cut sweetness and make the drink more refreshing. Be sure to give this a try and see what you prefer the most.