Tequila Sunrise

Pro tips

• Pour grenadine slowly over the back of a bar spoon to create clean layers rather than mixing it in immediately.
• Use fresh-squeezed orange juice for better flavor and clarity than pre-packaged juice.
• Chill your glass before pouring to keep the drink cold longer without over-diluting it.
• Serve with an orange slice and cherry for garnish to enhance the sunrise visual.

Substitutions

• Grenadine → pomegranate syrup (similar density and flavor, slight tartness difference)
• Orange juice → fresh grapefruit juice (sweeter variation, less traditional)
• Old Mr. Boston tequila → any silver tequila (substitutes smoothly, flavor profile similar)

Storage & make-ahead

Best served immediately after assembly. Pre-mixed tequila and juice can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; add grenadine only when serving.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · bar spoon · jigger

What causes the sunrise effect in a Tequila Sunrise?

Grenadine is denser than the other ingredients and sinks to the bottom when poured slowly over the back of a bar spoon, creating the distinctive red-to-orange gradient.

Should a Tequila Sunrise be shaken or stirred?

Shake the tequila and orange juice with ice, then strain into a glass over fresh ice and slowly pour the grenadine down the back of a spoon to preserve the layered look.

Can I make a Tequila Sunrise ahead of time?

Mix the tequila and orange juice ahead, but add ice and grenadine just before serving to maintain the visual effect.

What type of tequila works best?

Silver or blanco tequila is traditional; avoid aged varieties like añejo, which can overpower the bright citrus flavors.