Last Updated on June 8, 2024 by Lydia Martin
The Tequila Sunrise cocktail, blending grenadine, tequila, and orange juice, can be easily crafted at home. Yet, for an elevated experience, using the best tequila is crucial.
So, to help you make a Tequila Sunrise perfectly, we’ve compiled the best tequilas for Tequila Sunrise recipes. We mixed and tasted these concoctions and partied hard to enjoy these drinks.
Check them out below!
Top 15 Tequila Bottles For Tequila Sunrise Cocktail
15. Jimador Blanco
Average Price: approx. $19-$22/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: For a budget-friendly Tequila Sunrise drink, opt for Jimador Blanco Tequila. It exhibits an initial aroma of medicinal alcohol intertwined with agave notes, notable pepper hints, fruity flavors, and a lingering agave aftertaste.
“The perfect sunrise begins with the best tequila in hand.” – Liquor Laboratory
Although this is not the top tequila among this selection of the best tequilas, Jimador Blanco is a decent choice for cocktails, especially a good Tequila Sunrise, given its affordability.
14. 1800 Silver Tequila
Average Price: approx. $27.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: Opening with a mellow agave scent, followed by black pepper, citrus, and subtle notes of alcohol. It’s smooth, offering a pleasant sweetness with agave, citrus, and black pepper hints on the palate.
Besides, we like the sweetness and the gentleness of black pepper on the finish. The 1800 tequila is not overtly bold or intricate, rendering it well-suited for cocktails like Tequila Sunrise.
13. Espolòn Blanco Tequila
Average Price: approx. $29.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: The abundant flavors of Espolòn Blanco Tequila enchant our senses. Its floral and fruity aromas combine with delicate notes of lime zest and white pepper.
Bright agave, spice, and vanilla further invigorate a Tequila Sunrise or Tequila Sunset drink. Besides, it’s an excellent value for money while enhancing your favorite cocktails, including the timeless Tequila Sunrise.
12. Milagro Silver
Average Price: approx. $29.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: Whenever we feel like drinking a Tequila Sunrise with minimal tequila taste, Milagro Silver Tequila is our go-to bottle. It melds earth and spice scents with dominant sweetness and fruitiness, blending seamlessly with orange juice and grenadine syrup.
While citrus flavors shine through, tropical fruit hints enhance the drink’s refreshing nature. We like the remarkable smoothness of Milagro Silver, which we also recommend sipping straight.
11. Tapatio 110
Average Price: approx. $65.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 55% ABV
Why We Like It: At 110 proof, Tapatio stands as a high-proof Tequila, perfect for those craving a bold Tequila Sunrise. Despite the high proof, it’s remarkably smooth, making it an exceptional option to make a Tequila Sunrise or any cocktails at home.
We like the noticeable alcohol aroma with nuances of cooked agave, black pepper, and grapefruit, which works well with grenadine syrup and orange (or pineapple) juice in a Tequila Sunrise drink.
10. Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver
Average Price: approx. $25.86/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: For a Tequila Sunrise with a twist, try a bottle of Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver. The smoothness and distinct character of Jose Cuervo adds flair to this classic cocktail.
The crisp, silver tequila harmonizes with the orange juice and grenadine, creating a vibrant and refreshing experience. Serve it in a chilled highball glass and garnish with an orange slice; you’re good to go!
9. Casamigos Blanco
Average Price: approx. $52.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: We like Casamigos Blanco for its remarkable smoothness and pleasing finish. Its citrus flavors seamlessly meld with the orange juice in a Tequila Sunrise, while the subtle peppery essence adds a delightful touch.
Casamigos Blanco also has a delightful hint of vanilla, harmonizing flawlessly with the spirit’s natural fruity flavors and ice.
8. Clase Azul Reposado
Average Price: approx. $179.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: Clase Azul Reposado stands as a premium choice, justifying its higher price point. We like its versatility, whether you sip it solo or mixed into beloved cocktails.
This variation leans towards sweetness, harmonizing with a summer-themed Tequila Sunrise recipe. It exudes an aged essence, boasting a distinctive complexity, making it one of the best tequilas.
7. El Tesoro Paradiso Extra Añejo Tequila
Average Price: approx. $169.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: For an elevated Tequila Sunrise recipe experience, consider using a bottle of El Tesoro Paradiso Extra Añejo Tequila. We like its refined and aged character bringing a new level of depth and complexity to the cocktail.
While most tequilas bring rich flavors and smoothness, El Tesoro Paradiso enhances the Tequila Sunrise with sophistication and indulgence. Besides, it’s a versatile spirit you can sip neat or over ice.
6. Don Julio Blanco
Average Price: approx. $53.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: With a smooth and crisp profile, this tequila, derived entirely from Blue Weber Agave, gives refreshing citrus notes that harmonize with the orange juice and garnish in your Tequila Sunrise.
Actually, Don Julio Blanco is one of the best tequilas for Tequila Sunrise, among other expressions from the brand. Besides, this bottle is an affordable option for making cocktails instead of using Don Julio 1942.
5. Tequila Ocho Plata
Average Price: approx. $51.61/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: With delightful tropical fruit notes and a focus on agave’s natural flavors, this tequila boasts a complex yet approachable profile with earthy undertones.
Opting for Tequila Ocho Plata can add dynamism to your Tequila Sunrise or any mixed drinks. We suggest adding freshly squeezed orange juice and orange slice garnish to enjoy its potential fully.
4. Milagro Select Barrel Reserve Añejo Tequila
Average Price: approx. $69.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: The rich and complex tasting notes of Milagro Select Barrel Reserve Añejo Tequila bring depth and sophistication to the cocktail [1], enhancing the overall taste experience.
With its smoothness and refined character, a bottle of Milagro Select Barrel Reserve adds a touch of luxury to your Tequila Sunrise. It’s a great pour, given its balanced vanilla and pepper hints.
3. Lunazul Blanco
Average Price: approx. $22.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: Lunazul Tequila Blanco may not be ideal for sipping with its pepper flavor and warm finish. However, it excels in creating accessible and budget-friendly homemade cocktails like Tequila Sunrise.
The initial sip uncovers agave notes and a subtle taste of black pepper, cinnamon, mint, and citrus. The finish persists with moderate warmth, bitterness, and an extra burst of black pepper.
2. Maestro Dobel Diamante
Average Price: approx. $48.99/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: We find Maestro Dobel Diamante the pinnacle of smoothness, and it showcases a flawlessly transparent appearance. Not only is it exceptionally crisp and effortlessly enjoyable, but we also like its lively and vibrant flavor.
This is one of the best tequilas for making cocktails, explicitly adding an extra punch to your fruity Tequila Sunrise or the contemporary Tequila Sunset [2], blending well with soda water and ice.
1. Olmeca Altos Tequila Plata
Average Price: approx. $30.09/750ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: Olmeca Altos Tequila Plata gives a herbal aroma, imparting a grounding element to classic Tequila Sunrise recipes. It balances the sweetness of orange juice and grenadine in this delicious cocktail.
“I saw Tequila Sunrise as a romantic picture with complex, bigger-than-life characters.” – Conrad Hall, American Cinematographer
Olmeca’s cooked agave imparts a citrus taste that complements the cocktail’s fruity flavors. If you want a smokier and bolder drink, try the Olmeca Altos Reposado.
*Average prices are based on Drizly online. Prices may vary in local liquor shops.
FAQs Related to Best Tequila for Tequila Sunrise
What type of tequila is typically used in a Tequila Sunrise?
A Tequila Sunrise cocktail typically calls for blanco (silver) tequila, although some variations may use reposado (aged) tequila for added depth of flavor. At Trident Bar, aficionados enjoy Cazadores Blanco Reposado Tequila, aged in oak barrels to marry all the flavors, ensuring each sip captivates like a Mick Jagger performance, leaving a lingering satisfaction at the bottom of the glass.
What flavor profile should I look for in a tequila for a Tequila Sunrise?
Look for a tequila with smooth and vibrant flavors, as well as subtle citrus and herbal notes that complement the other ingredients in the cocktail.
When crafting the perfect Tequila Sunrise, Bobby Lozoff suggests slowly pouring Tequila Blanco to achieve a layered effect, then adding grenadine and orange for the sunrise effect, finishing with a fresh cherry garnish; stir with a spoon to incorporate all the flavors for a delightful twist on classic margaritas, accentuated with maraschino for extra flair.
Should I use 100% agave tequila for a Tequila Sunrise?
Yes, it’s recommended to use 100% agave tequila for a Tequila Sunrise to ensure the best quality and authentic flavor profile.
Can I use a budget-friendly tequila for a Tequila Sunrise?
Yes, you can use a budget-friendly tequila for a Tequila Sunrise, as the other ingredients in the cocktail, such as orange juice and grenadine, also contribute to its flavor.
Are there any specific brands of tequila recommended for a Tequila Sunrise?
Some recommended brands of tequila for a Tequila Sunrise include Jose Cuervo, Espolòn, Sauza, El Jimador, and Herradura. These brands offer good quality tequilas with vibrant flavors.
Is reposado tequila a suitable option for a Tequila Sunrise?
Yes, reposado tequila can add depth and complexity to a Tequila Sunrise, making it a suitable option for those looking for a richer flavor profile in the cocktail.
Can I experiment with flavored tequilas in a Tequila Sunrise?
While traditional Tequila Sunrise cocktails use classic tequila, you can experiment with flavored tequilas like mango or pineapple-infused tequila to add a unique twist to the cocktail. Billy Rice, during his Tequila Sunrise tour, experimented with infusing Tequila Blanco with the essence of maraschino cherry and the zest of orange wheels, crafting a unique twist on the classic Margarita that even the Rolling Stones would applaud.
Experimenting with flavored tequila, Bobby Lozoff recommends slowly pouring the spirit to achieve a layered effect, then adding grenadine and orange for the sunrise effect; garnish with a fresh cherry and stir gently for a delightful twist on margaritas, enhanced with maraschino for a burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to the best tequila bottles for Tequila Sunrise, Olmeca Altos Tequila Plata stands out among other tequila bottles. Its pronounced earthy and vegetal taste captures the essence of sweet agave perfectly.
We like its smoothness, tasting notes, versatility, and fair price point, perfect for crafting exceptional cocktails.
Olmeca Altos Tequila Plata guarantees a delightful and satisfying experience, whether in a traditional Tequila Sunrise or other mixed drinks.
References:
- 5 Things You Didn’t Know About Cocktails and Bartending
- Tequila Sunrise
- What’s the Difference Between Gold and Silver Tequilas—And Which Should I Drink?
- Tequila Meaning
