National Tequila Day – Enjoy a TEA-quila Sunrise!

TEA-quila Sunrise Cocktail

 Whether you’re enjoying a nice dinner or relaxing poolside, a Tequila Sunrise is perfect for any occasion. The first version of the Tequila Sunrise originated in Arizona and is a perfect representation of the vibrant Southwestern skies. In honor of National Tequila Day, we’ve made a TEA-quila blend based on this classic tequila cocktail complemented by S&V herbal “tea.” This beverage not only turned out aesthetically pleasing, but also a delicious tropical treat!

A classic tequila sunrise includes: Grenadine, Orange Juice, and Tequila 

Our “tea” twist was to substitute the grenadine for our Simpson & Vail Orange Cranberry Herbal Tisane and a bit of hibiscus to create a Simple Syrup. 

Simple Syrup Ingredients:

•   1/2 cup water
•   1/2 cup sugar
•   2 tbsp (t-sacs) of Orange Cranberry Herbal Tisane
•   1 tbsp (t-sac) of Hibiscus

Instructions:

Heat the ingredients in a small sauce pan over high heat for til boiling. I put the herbs in three t-sacs, but they can be put in straight and strained out. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until all the sugar dissolves. Remove the herbs. Let the mixture completely cool.

This simple syrup can be sealed and refrigerated for up to a month!

Now on to the most important part – turning  the syrup into a cocktail!

Ingredients: 

• Orange Cranberry Herbal Tisane and Hibiscus Simple Syrup
• Orange Juice
• Tequila (I used Patron Silver)
• Optional: Orange or Maraschino Cherries

Instructions: 

1. Over ice, fill your glass about 3/4 of the way with orange juice and 2 oz of tequila .
2. Pour your orange juice and tequila into a shaker with ice or stir generously for approx. 15 seconds.
3. Pour a shot of your cooled simple syrup slowly down the inside of the glass. I used an upside down spoon to guide the liquid. It will sink to the bottom.
4. Optional: Apply garnish.
5. Stir up the drink with your straw and enjoy!

After the cooling process of the simple syrup, it took about 5 minutes to make this drink, making it a quick and easy creation. I believe this drink would taste good with straight hibiscus simple syrup, or to add a fruitier flavor, Burgundy Blast simple syrup. Overall, substituting out the grenadine for a homemade herbal tea simple syrup created a sweeter taste throughout, but still maintained a subtle tart taste. I would highly recommend pairing this drink with grilled seafood, fish or pork tacos, steak fajitas, or any recipe with citrus notes.