A fresh twist on the classic Tequila Sunrise adds sparkle and excitement to any party or gathering.
This simple cocktail recipe combines premium tequila, orange juice, grenadine, and a splash of prosecco for a bubbly update to the beloved sunrise effect.
The iconic orange and red gradient makes this drink perfect for Instagram-worthy photos. Adding prosecco creates tiny bubbles that dance through the layers, making the drink even more eye-catching than the original version.
The Tequila Sunrise Twist works great for brunches, pool parties, or summer evenings. The recipe takes just 5 minutes to make and needs only basic bartending skills to create the beautiful layered effect.
Tequila Sunrise Twist Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Highball glass
- Cocktail shaker
- Ice
- Bar spoon
- Citrus juicer
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 4 oz fresh orange juice
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz grenadine
- Orange slice and cherry for garnish
- Ice cubes
- Extra ice for shaking
Instructions
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour tequila, orange juice, and lime juice into the shaker.
- Shake for 10-15 seconds until well chilled.
- Fill a highball glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Slowly pour grenadine down the side of the glass. It will sink to create the sunrise effect.
- Do not stir – the grenadine needs to settle at the bottom.
- Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
Notes
Store grenadine in the fridge after opening to keep it fresh for future cocktails.
This drink works best in a clear glass to show off the gradient colors.
Pre-chill the glass in the freezer for 5 minutes for an extra cold drink.
The lime juice adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Must Have Ingredients
| Image | Title | Buy |
|---|---|---|
 | Collins Candied Fruit Orange Peel Twist in Syrup For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
 | Collins Strawberries in Syrup For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
 | Collins Candied Ginger in Syrup For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
 | Peninsula Premium Cocktail Cherries For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
 | Premium Lychees in Syrup For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
 | Oranfit Dried Orange Slices For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
 | Oranfit Dried Lime Slices For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
 | LAVA Premium Cocktail Rimmers Variety Pack | Buy On Amazon |
 | Pure Cane Simple Syrup Cocktail Mixer | Buy On Amazon |
 | Q GINGER BEER with Real Ginger & Organic Agave | Buy On Amazon |
 | Q Mixers Premium Ginger Ale | Buy On Amazon |
 | Q ELDERFLOWER TONIC WATER with Real Quinine & Organic Agave | Buy On Amazon |
 | Q Club soda with Himalayan Salt | Buy On Amazon |
 | WithCo Cucumber Gimlet Craft Cocktail Mixer with Mint | Buy On Amazon |
 | Strongwater Old Fashioned Mix- Handcrafted Old Fashioned Syrup with Bitters, Orange, Cherry, Organic Demerara Sugar | Buy On Amazon |
 | Bittermilk No.1 Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Fashioned Mix | Buy On Amazon |
 | Portland Syrups Pumpkin Spice Syrup | Buy On Amazon |
 | Portland Syrups Lavender Syrup | Buy On Amazon |
 | Portland Syrups Vanilla Syrup | Buy On Amazon |
 | Original Bloody Mary Mix | Buy On Amazon |
 | Fever Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit | Buy On Amazon |
 | Professional Drink Mixer Set for Beginners | Buy On Amazon |
 | 1 Pack 3 Tier Bar Glass Rimmer | Buy On Amazon |
 | Cocktail Ice Mold With Easy Fill and Release Silicone Round Ice Ball Maker | Buy On Amazon |
 | Stainless Steel Bar Tool For Making Garnish for Cocktails & Mocktails | Buy On Amazon |
Tasting Notes
The Tequila Sunrise Twist combines sweet and tangy flavors with a smooth tequila base. Orange juice adds natural sweetness, while grenadine creates bright berry notes.
A gentle spice from the tequila balances the drink’s fruity elements. Each sip reveals layers of citrus, pomegranate, and agave.
The texture is silky and refreshing. Ice helps blend the ingredients while keeping the drink cool and crisp.
Visual appeal matches the taste experience. The sunrise effect shows clear layers – bright red at the bottom fading to orange at the top.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Fresh orange juice
- Sweet pomegranate
- Agave tequila
- Light berry finish
Mouthfeel:
- Smooth
- Medium-bodied
- Slightly syrupy
- Cold and refreshing
Substitute
Several ingredients can replace parts of a classic Tequila Sunrise if needed. Each substitute changes the drink’s taste and look in different ways.
Orange Juice Alternatives:
- Blood orange juice creates a deeper red color.
- Tangerine juice gives a sweeter taste.
- An orange-mango blend juice adds a tropical twist.
Grenadine Alternatives:
- You can mix pomegranate juice with sugar.
- You can also use raspberry syrup or cherry syrup.
Tequila Alternatives:
- Mezcal adds smokiness to the drink.
- White rum gives a lighter flavor.
- Vodka has a neutral taste.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace tequila with:
- Lime seltzer water
- White grape juice
- Apple juice
The drink needs something sweet and red at the bottom to create the sunrise effect. Any red-colored syrup or juice can work for this purpose.
Mix and match these substitutes based on what’s available. Each combination creates its own unique flavor profile while keeping the drink’s signature layered look.
