Description

The Tequila Sunrise is a visually striking cocktail that mimics the colours of a sunrise with its layered appearance. It originated in the 1930s at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel and gained fame in the 1970s when the Eagles immortalised it in their song "Tequila Sunrise."

This cocktail features a base of tequila and orange juice, with grenadine syrup added last to create the signature gradient effect. Its sweet and tangy flavours make it a popular choice for tropical settings and celebrations.

Ingredients

60 ml Tequila
120 ml Orange juice
15 ml Grenadine
1 orange slice (for garnish)
1 piece Maraschino Cherry (for garnish)

Equipment needed

Bar Spoon – Used to stir gently after building.

Instructions

Fill a highball or tall glass with ice cubes.
Pour the tequila over the ice, then add the orange juice and stir gently.
Slowly pour the grenadine down the side or over the back of a spoon so it sinks.
Garnish with an orange slice and maraschino cherry.

Recommended glassware

Highball Glass (recommended)

A tall everyday glass for mixed drinks with ice and a longer pour.

240–350 ml Tall cylindrical shape with room for ice and mixer.

Best for: Moscow Mule, Dark and Stormy, Scotch Highball, Rum and Coke, Mojito variations.

Garnish: Good for wedges, spears, herbs, and long-drink garnishes.

Collins Glass

A tall straight-sided glass perfect for long refreshing cocktails.

Also works well for a taller serve.

300–410 ml Tall, straight-sided, narrower than a highball.

Best for: Mojito, Tom Collins, Paloma, Gin Fizz, long refreshing cocktails.

Garnish: Excellent for mint sprigs, lime wedges, citrus wheels, and straws.

Tequila Sunrise