Ingredients
- 1 Larger Beer (Corona)
- 1 oz Tequila
- 3 oz Orange Juice
- 1 Splash(s) Grenadine Syrup
Instructions
Prepare the Beer:
- Drink the Corona until the beer level is even with the label.
Add Ingredients:
- Add 1 oz tequila, 3 oz orange juice, and a splash of grenadine syrup to the beer bottle.
Garnish:
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Mexican Sunrise Cocktail.
Notes
Estimated Nutrition:
Where it came from
The original Tequila Sunrise is often credited to the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix in the 1930s or 40s. Its modern iteration, however, gained significant traction in Sausalito, California, during the early 1970s, becoming a popular choice among rock stars and casual drinkers alike.
This drink belongs to the "sunrise" family of cocktails, characterized by the gradual layering of grenadine through a base of spirits and citrus, creating a visually appealing gradient. It's a direct relative of the Tequila Sunrise, differing primarily in name or minor regional variations. Its simplicity and visual flair set it apart from more complex tequila concoctions.
You'd typically find a Mexican Sunrise at a casual brunch, a poolside bar, or any spot where the vibe is relaxed and fun. It's a go-to for spring break crowds, backyard BBQs, or when you want a straightforward, sweet drink that doesn't demand too much attention.
What it tastes like
The Mexican Sunrise delivers a sweet and citrus-forward profile. You get the bright, tangy notes of fresh orange juice upfront, nicely balanced by the distinct earthy and slightly peppery character of tequila. The grenadine adds a sugary depth and a hint of berry fruitiness, rounding out the drink with a smooth, approachable sweetness.
With a standard pour of 2 ounces of 80-proof tequila, this drink clocks in around 12-13% ABV. That makes a single Mexican Sunrise roughly two to two and a half times stronger than your average 5% ABV beer, so treat it accordingly.
The technique
Building a Mexican Sunrise is about as straightforward as it gets. Grab a chilled highball or collins glass, fill it with fresh ice. Pour in your tequila, then top with orange juice. The key for the "sunrise" effect is to slowly drizzle the grenadine down the side of the glass, allowing it to sink and create the visual gradient. Don't stir it.
The single most important technique here is the slow, deliberate pour of the grenadine. Let it glide down the inside of the glass to settle at the bottom. This creates that iconic layered look without muddling the colors.
Ingredient Spotlight
The bottles that make or break this drink.
Tequila
- Use
- Blanco (silver) tequila. Its clean, bright profile lets the other flavors shine without competing.
- Skip
- Aged reposado or añejo tequilas, or any heavily flavored varieties. Their complex notes will clash.
- Why
- Blanco tequila provides the necessary spirit base without overpowering the delicate balance of orange and grenadine. It keeps the drink crisp.
Orange Juice
- Use
- Freshly squeezed orange juice is always the best choice. High-quality, not-from-concentrate also works.
- Skip
- Orange juice from concentrate or "orange drink" products. They bring an artificial sweetness and dull flavor.
- Why
- Fresh orange juice provides the essential sweet-tart citrus backbone. Its vibrancy is critical for the drink's overall appeal and balance.
Grenadine
- Use
- A quality grenadine, ideally one made with real pomegranate juice, will make a noticeable difference.
- Skip
- Artificially flavored, high-fructose corn syrup heavy brands. They taste cloying and lack natural fruit depth.
- Why
- Grenadine is crucial for both the iconic visual layering and the sweet, slightly tart, berry-like flavor it imparts. It's more than just red syrup.
Three Variations
Three real ways bartenders riff on this drink.
Tequila Sunset
- A darker, berry-infused cousin
- Instead of grenadine, this variation uses blackberry brandy or a dark berry liqueur to create a deeper, richer sunset effect and flavor.
Vodka Sunrise
- For the tequila-averse
- Simply swap the tequila for vodka. This creates a smoother, less assertive spirit base, allowing the orange and grenadine to dominate the flavor.
Caribbean Sunrise
- Tropical rum twist
- Substitute light or gold rum for the tequila. This brings a different kind of sweetness and a distinct tropical aroma to the classic sunrise profile.
What if I don't have…
Quick substitutions for when the bottle shop is closed.
Vodka or light rum can step in to provide the spirit base, though the flavor profile will shift.
Pineapple juice or even grapefruit juice (for a tarter version) can be used, but the classic taste will change.
Cherry syrup, raspberry syrup, or even a splash of cranberry juice with a bit of simple syrup can mimic the color and sweetness.
Any tall drinking glass will work for building this drink. The key is enough height for the layers to show.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to what people search for after Googling this drink.
What is in a Mexican Sunrise?
A Mexican Sunrise typically contains tequila, orange juice, and grenadine.
Is a Mexican Sunrise the same as a Tequila Sunrise?
Essentially, yes. The names are often used interchangeably, referring to the same core recipe and visual presentation.
Why is it called a Mexican Sunrise?
The "Mexican" part likely references the tequila, which is a spirit primarily from Mexico. The "Sunrise" part refers to the visual effect of the grenadine sinking through the orange juice, resembling a sunrise.
Is a Mexican Sunrise strong?
It's moderately strong, typically around 12-13% ABV with a standard pour, which is stronger than a typical beer.
What kind of tequila is best for a Mexican Sunrise?
Blanco (silver) tequila is generally preferred for its clean flavor that allows the fruit components to shine without interference.
Do you stir a Mexican Sunrise?
No, you do not stir a Mexican Sunrise. The layered effect created by the grenadine sinking is a key visual element of the drink.
What glass do you use for a Mexican Sunrise?
A highball or collins glass is the standard choice, as its height allows for the best display of the layered colors.
Can you make a non-alcoholic Mexican Sunrise?
Yes, you can easily make a virgin version by simply omitting the tequila. Mix orange juice with a splash of grenadine for the same look and a similar sweet, fruity taste.
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