Tequila Sunrise

The traditional recipe consists of exactly three ingredients: tequila, orange juice, and grenadine syrup. When poured correctly, the heavy red grenadine sinks to the bottom of the glass and slowly mixes upward, creating the drink's famous striking visual presentation that resembles a rising sun. It is a simple yet highly nostalgic tropical drink.

Blanco (silver) tequila is generally the preferred choice for a Tequila Sunrise because its crisp, unaged agave flavor cuts through the heavy sweetness of the orange juice. While Reposado tequila can be used, its oak-barrel aging notes can sometimes clash with the bright, fruity flavor profile of the drink. You want a smooth, 100% agave tequila to prevent the drink from tasting overly harsh.

The modern version of the drink was created in the 1970s by bartenders Bobby Lozoff and Billy Rice at the Trident restaurant in Sausalito, California. It was specifically popularized when the Rolling Stones ordered it at a private party in 1972, leading the band to request it on their entire subsequent US tour. Its association with the rock band solidified its place in pop culture history.

To achieve the layered sunrise effect, first fill a highball glass with ice, add your shot of tequila, and top it with orange juice, stirring gently. Then, slowly pour the grenadine syrup directly down the inside wall of the glass or over the back of a spoon. Because grenadine is significantly denser than the alcohol and juice mixture, it will sink to the bottom and naturally bleed upward.