Tequila Sunset Recipe: How to Make it

What Is a Tequila Sunset Cocktail?

The tequila sunset represents a delightful mixed drink that marries tequila with the tropical notes of pineapple and orange juice.

Typically, the recipe incorporates fresh lime and orange-based liqueur as well. This eye-catching beverage produces a stunning layered effect that mirrors an actual sunset, featuring brilliant hues that shift from pale tones at the surface down to rich crimson depths below.

These cocktails offer a wonderfully refreshing experience, perfect for relaxing after a demanding day or preparing yourself for a night on the town. What makes this particular drink so appealing is its balanced sweetness—it’s pleasantly sugary without being cloying, whilst the tequila contributes a subtle kick.

Compared to the better-known tequila sunrise, the sunset variation presents a distinctive taste combination that numerous cocktail aficionados actually favour for its layered flavours and striking presentation.

The drink gained widespread popularity throughout America, though it wasn’t until the 1990s that mixologists began creating innovative twists on this established recipe.

Bartenders incorporated red food colouring into their grenadine to achieve a more pronounced orange tone, and they garnished the cocktail with orange wedges rather than lemon. The outcome was a beverage whose appearance evoked the sun dipping below the horizon, thus earning its moniker: the tequila sunset!

How Many Calories Does a Tequila Sunset Contain?

A typical tequila sunset holds roughly 200-250 calories, although the exact figure depends on the specific ingredients and measurements employed. Here’s how the calories break down:

• Tequila (60ml): approximately 140 calories
• Fruit juice (60ml): roughly 30-50 calories
• Grenadine (30ml): around 70-80 calories

If you’re looking to lower the calorie count, consider using sugar-free grenadine or reducing the quantity, choosing freshly pressed juices without additional sweeteners, or pouring a smaller measure of tequila. Bear in mind, though, that such adjustments might alter the genuine flavour and visual character of the drink.

Our Olmeca Altos Tequila Sunset Recipe

Discover how to craft our distinctive take on this timeless mixed drink: the Sunset Paloma. This exclusive Olmeca Altos interpretation blends the invigorating characteristics of a classic tequila sunset with the zesty, sharp flavours of a paloma.

What you get is a gorgeously stratified cocktail that highlights the superior quality of Olmeca Altos Plata tequila whilst providing an elegant drinking occasion.

Our bartenders have meticulously balanced the flavours to produce a drink that’s simultaneously eye-catching and remarkably intricate. The Sunset Paloma provides an ideal gateway into the realm of artisan tequila cocktails, whether you’re an experienced connoisseur or simply starting to venture beyond the standard margarita.

What is the difference between Tequila Sunrise and Tequila Sunset?

Are There Tips to Improve this Tequila Sunset?

To make it even more delicious, try these tips!

First, determine the quality of the tequila you’re using. If it’s a premium brand, you can skip the triple sec. However, if the tequila is not as high quality, adding a bit of triple sec can help balance the flavours.

Second, when using fresh peels or fruit slices, cut them into small pieces so they fit neatly in the glass. Avoid letting them float around awkwardly like little boats—it’s not the best look.

Thirdly, for an elegant touch (and to truly impress your guests), consider adding cherry blossoms or mint leaves to the drink. This will elevate its appearance, especially when served in clear glasses.

Don’t hold back on the orange juice, it’s a key ingredient that gives this cocktail its distinct and delicious character. Feel free to use a little more than you normally would for the best flavour.

Go all out with your garnish! Adding a slice of orange or lime to each glass will make your guests feel extra special as they enjoy their drinks.

A Frozen Tequila Sunset with Pineapple

Preparing a Frozen Tequila Sunset Cocktail is simple and quick.

Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice, then add the tequila, pineapple juice, and grenadine. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds to combine the ingredients.

Next, strain the mixture into two glasses filled with ice cubes using a cocktail strainer. For an extra burst of flavour, squeeze some additional lemon juice into each glass. Finally, garnish with an orange slice and serve.

Elevate Your Tequila Sunset Recipe with Olmeca Altos

Whilst any tequila will work in a tequila sunset, the calibre of your spirit makes a substantial difference to the end product. Olmeca Altos Plata Tequila proves an outstanding option for numerous reasons:

1. Artisanal Production – Olmeca Altos employs time-honoured techniques, including the tahona method, whereby a stone wheel crushes the cooked agave.
2. Taste Characteristics – The vibrant, zesty notes harmonise beautifully with the fruit juices in the drink.
3. Refined Quality – Its polished character offers a pristine base that lets the cocktail’s other flavours truly stand out.
4. Environmental Commitment – Olmeca Altos maintains dedication to sustainable manufacturing practices, spanning from agave cultivation through to bottling.

The tequila sunset recipe represents a Mexican mixed drink that’s been savoured for generations. It combines tequila, orange-based liqueur, and grenadine syrup.

But imagine if you could enhance this beloved cocktail? The silky texture of Olmeca Altos tequila introduces a fresh layer of complexity to your go-to beverage. So when you’re next preparing tequila sunsets, give it a go!

Opting for a premium tequila such as Olmeca Altos transforms your tequila sunset from an ordinary mixed drink into an artisan cocktail befitting any upmarket establishment. Explore other top tequila cocktail recipes for additional ideas.