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Tequila Sunrise

Tequila and orange juice with grenadine sinking to the bottom like a sunrise.

Strength
11% ABV
Standard drinks (US)
1
Calories
180 kcal
In the glass
5½ oz
Method
Built
  • Tequila Blanco
  • Orange Juice
  • Grenadine

How to Make a Tequila Sunrise

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour in the tequila blanco and orange juice.
  3. Pour the grenadine slowly down the side of the glass and let it sink.
  4. Garnish with an orange slice and a cocktail cherry.

About the Tequila Sunrise

Bartenders at the Trident in Sausalito created this version in the early 1970s. The Rolling Stones adopted it on their 1972 tour, and the Eagles wrote a song about it.

Created 1970s in Sausalito, USA. Listed as an official cocktail by the International Bartenders Association.

Bartender's tip: Pour the grenadine down the inside of the glass and let it sink. Don't stir.

Taste Profile

Sweet
Sour
Bitter
Strong
Fresh

Good to Know

What glass is a Tequila Sunrise served in?
A highball glass. A narrow column of liquid loses bubbles slowly, and a full load of ice keeps the drink cold without watering it down fast.
Is a Tequila Sunrise shaken or stirred?
Neither. It is built directly in the glass and given a gentle stir.
How strong is a Tequila Sunrise?
About 11% ABV after dilution, or roughly 1 US standard drinks (14 g of alcohol) per serve.
How many calories are in a Tequila Sunrise?
Roughly 180 kcal per drink, most of it from alcohol and sugar.
Can I make a Tequila Sunrise without tequila blanco?
Yes. Tequila Reposado is the closest substitute, though the drink will taste different.

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