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Mix up a classic tequila sunrise, then check out our margarita, paloma cocktail and more tequila cocktail recipes. We've also got plenty more summer cocktail ideas to try including sex on the beach, long island iced tea, purple rain, woo woo and a blue lagoon.

How to make a tequila sunrise

Our drinks expert Hannah Guinness shares her at-home bar tips to help you take your tequila sunrise to the next level.

What is a tequila sunrise?

This delightfully retro drink, which is served unmixed to showcase its distinctive layers, was invented in the early 1970s in California. It soared to fame when Mick Jagger tried it at a party for the launch of The Rolling Stones’s 1972 tour – it then became the band’s go-to drink. Sweet, fruity and easy to drink, it makes for a refreshing warm-weather cocktail.

Tequila sunrise ingredients

We’ve tried and tested the best premium tequilas for you. Make sure you use freshly squeezed orange juice. To really make the flavours in this drink pop, make your own grenadine. It’s much easier than you think – try our recipe here.

Bar hacks and garnishes

Serve in a highball or hurricane glass. Always add the grenadine last, and don’t mix the drink before serving to ensure those beautiful sunrise layers stay intact.

How to make a Tequila sunrise... step-by-step video

Tequila sunrise recipe

  • 50ml blanco tequila
  • 100ml orange juice
    (not from concentrate)
  • 1 tbsp triple sec
    (we used Cointreau)
  • 20ml grenadine
  • orange slice
    and maraschino cherry, to garnish
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    Method

    • step 1

      Pour the tequila, orange juice and triple sec into an ice-filled highball glass, and mix gently.

    • step 2

      Slowly pour over the grenadine and wait until it sinks to the bottom of the glass. Garnish with an orange slice and cocktail cherry before serving.

    Try more of our summer cocktail recipes

    Two frozen margaritas with lime wedges in the background

    Authors

    Hannah Guinness olive magazine portrait
    Hannah GuinnessSenior sub editor and drinks writer
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