This Tequila Sunset cocktail is a delightful variation on the Tequila Sunrise. And a pretty strong argument could be made that the Sunset version of this classic is a far better drink. By swapping tangy grapefruit juice in place of the sweet orange, the result is a sweet-tart spin on the classic that is actually much more balanced in flavor. This cocktail is beautifully layered and deliciously bittersweet...just like a good sunset itself.

Tequila sunset served in a tall etched glass garnished with two maraschino cherries skewered on a pink drink umbrella and sitting on an outdoor wooden table in front of some shrubs.

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Ingredients for tequila sunset
Instructions for tequila sunset
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📖 Recipe

Ingredients for tequila sunset

grapefruit juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
tequila
grenadine
maraschino cherry, to garnish (optional)

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions for tequila sunset

Fresh grapefruit being juiced on a yellow plastic juicer next to half a grapefruit sitting on a small white plate.

Juice the grapefruit.

Tall etched glass full of ice cubes next to an ice cube tray with a light blue lid.

Toss a generous amount of ice into a tall glass.

Pale pink liquid being poured into a tall etched glass full of ice next to half a grapefruit sitting on a small white plate.

Add the grapefruit juice.

Pale pink liquid being stirred in a tall etched glass with a steel bar spoon next to a bottle of tequila.

Add the tequila, and then give it a quick stir.

Dark red liquid being poured from a steel measuring jigger into a tall etched glass containing pale pink liquid next to a bottle of grenadine.

Slowly add the grenadine along the side of the glass.

Garnish with a maraschino cherry, if desired, and enjoy.

Hint: If you don't have the time (or inclination) to freshly squeeze your grapefruit juice, this cocktail will still be plenty enjoyable with some quality bottled stuff.

Looking for more fruity cocktails? Try these: