The Tequila Sunrise gets its vibrant hue that resembles the colours of sunrise through the layering of orange juice, grenadine syrup, and tequila over ice. Its origins are believed to date back to the 1930s at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona. The original recipe included tequila, crème de cassis, lime juice, and soda water.
However, the drink's popularity surged in the 1970s. It's said that Mick Jagger or Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones purportedly became fans of it during a visit to the Trident bar in Sausalito, California. The band then ordered this cocktail frequently during their US tour, which they dubbed as the "cocaine and tequila sunrise tour."
Word soon spread to other people and places, which is why taking advantage of this cocktail's rising popularity, a tequila brand in 1973 decided to print the recipe on the back of their bottles as a marketing tactic. The same year also saw the release of The Eagles' "Tequila Sunrise," which further cemented the drink's cultural significance. And let's not forget the 1988 movie named after this cocktail, starring Kurt Russell, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Mel Gibson.
Tequila Sunrise continues to be a beloved cocktail, and rightfully so. Its potent yet refreshing blend of flavours have made it a favourite on bar menus worldwide. Give it a try, and it will surely become a go-to choice for you too.
Quality ingredients can make or break a cocktail. While they may be slightly more expensive, the investment is worth it.
Use freshly squeezed lime juice instead of bottled juice.
Although Naked and Famous is meant to be an equal parts cocktail, you can still experiment with the ratios of the ingredients.
You can double-strain the cocktail to avoid any icy remnants when you finally serve your cocktail.
Naked and Famous is typically served without any garnish, but you can add a lime twist or even a flamed orange peel.
Ensure that you chill the glass before serving because this one step will maintain the drink's cool temperature for longer, thus enhancing the drinking experience.
Pour orange juice and tequila directly into a highball glass or any glass of choice filled with ice.
Add grenadine to create that signature sunrise effect. Don’t stir.
Garnish with orange zest and maraschino cherry.