Tequila Sunrise

Pro tips

• Chill the glass with ice before building the drink to keep temperatures stable and prevent grenadine from dispersing too quickly.
• Pour grenadine as the final step over the back of a barspoon for the cleanest layering effect—speed matters.
• Use fresh-squeezed orange juice when possible; the acidity and brightness define the drink's balance.
• Fill the glass with fresh ice before adding orange juice to ensure proper chilling and presentation.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Tequila → any blanco or silver tequila (no flavor change, just your preferred brand)
• Orange juice → fresh grapefruit juice (shifts flavor to citrus-forward, less sweet)
• Grenadine → pomegranate syrup or raspberry syrup (alters color depth and sweetness level)

Storage & make-ahead

Cocktails are best served immediately. Pre-batch the tequila and orange juice separately; add ice and grenadine just before serving.

Equipment

cocktail glass or highball glass · bar spoon · jigger or measuring spoon

Why does my Tequila Sunrise separate instead of layer?

Pour the grenadine slowly over the back of a bar spoon into the drink after the ice and orange juice are in place. Pouring it directly or too quickly breaks the density gradient.

Can I make a Tequila Sunrise without grenadine?

Yes, but you'll lose the signature color and sweetness. Pomegranate syrup or a small amount of raspberry syrup can substitute, though the visual effect differs.

Should I use fresh orange juice or bottled?

Fresh-squeezed orange juice delivers brighter flavor, but quality bottled juice works. Avoid pre-made orange drinks with added sugars.

What type of tequila works best?

Unaged blanco or silver tequila is traditional and most affordable. Reposado adds smoothness but mutes the citrus balance.

How do I keep the grenadine from sinking too fast?

Use a bar spoon to gently float it down the side of the glass, or pour it slowly over a spoon held just above the drink surface.