Tequila Sunrise

The Tequila Sunrise is the ultimate 1970s cocktail and the drink that helped transform tequila from a regional spirit into a global phenomenon. While earlier versions existed, the modern Tequila Sunrise was created in the early 1970s at the Trident in Sausalito, California, and was popularized by the Rolling Stones (who drank them on their 1972 tour) and later by the Eagles' 1973 song "Tequila Sunrise." The drink combines tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, which sinks to create the sunrise gradient effect. Built in a tall glass over ice, the Tequila Sunrise represents 1970s California culture, rock and roll drinking, and Instagram-worthy cocktails before Instagram existed. The drink embodies California laid-back culture, the Rolling Stones' influence, and the visual appeal of layered drinks. The Tequila Sunrise's orange juice base makes it approachable and breakfast-adjacent, while the grenadine adds sweetness and creates the iconic red-to-yellow gradient. The cocktail demands quality ingredients: good tequila (the better the tequila, the better the drink), fresh orange juice, and real grenadine (not cherry-flavored corn syrup). The drink represents 1970s nostalgia, rock and roll culture, and the tequila revolution. Whether served at a California beach bar or a poolside resort, the Tequila Sunrise delivers colorful, easy-drinking sunshine.