Paul Kushner
Tequila Rainbow is bold, bright, and made to stand out. This layered drink starts with smooth tequila and fresh orange juice, then adds a splash of grenadine and a pour of black grape juice for a fun color shift. The result is a drink that looks just as good as it tastes. Every layer brings something different citrusy, sweet, and a little bit juicy. Topped with a slice of orange, it’s the kind of cocktail that catches eyes and keeps things light. Whether you’re out with friends or just keeping it casual, this one’s an easy pick for good vibes.
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Tasting Notes
The Tequila Rainbow is bold, fruity, and colorful. You’ll taste the bright citrus of orange juice up front, followed by the smooth, earthy heat of tequila. The grenadine adds a hint of sweetness and helps create a layered look. Black grape juice floats at the top with a deep, dark finish that contrasts well with the orange base. Each sip blends these layers more and more, changing the flavor slightly as you go. The orange slice garnish adds a fresh aroma that works nicely with both the grape and the citrus. It’s fun to look at and easy to drink.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a jigger, spoon, and a chilled lowball glass for this drink. A bar spoon or the back of a regular spoon helps layer the juices properly. Chilling the glass ahead of time makes a big difference, especially since this drink doesn’t use ice in the build. A citrus knife or small paring knife is helpful for slicing the garnish. You won’t need a shaker or strainer here it’s built directly in the glass. If you want to get the layers just right, pour each ingredient slowly and carefully.
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila
- 3 oz orange juice
- 0.5 oz grenadine
- 1 oz black grape juice
- Orange slice, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill the rocks glass with ice.
- Pour the tequila and orange juice into the glass and stir gently.
- Slowly add the grenadine by pouring it down the side or over the back of a spoon, it should settle at the bottom.
- Gently float the black grape juice on top.
- Garnish with an orange slice.
Pro Tips
- Use chilled juice and tequila so the layers stay separate longer.
- When adding the grenadine, pour slowly and don’t stir this helps it sink to the bottom.
- To layer the black grape juice, use a spoon and pour gently.
- If the grape juice is too heavy, dilute it slightly with water so it floats better.
- Fresh-squeezed orange juice gives a sharper citrus note, but bottled is fine for consistency.
- Want a little fizz? Add a splash of soda water before the grape juice for a soft sparkle.
- Always chill the glass to help keep the drink cold without needing ice.
When to Serve
The Tequila Rainbow is perfect for parties, cookouts, and happy hour. Its look alone makes it a fun choice when you want something a little more eye-catching. It’s light enough to enjoy in warm weather but still strong enough to feel like a proper cocktail. Serve it as a welcome drink, during a round of appetizers, or when you want a colorful drink to start the night. Because of the layered effect, it’s best enjoyed right after making it—wait too long and the layers will mix on their own.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Go with a smooth blanco tequila like Espolòn, El Jimador, or Cazadores. You want something clean that plays well with the fruit juice.
- For orange juice, choose a fresh-squeezed or cold-pressed version with a clean taste and little to no pulp.
- Use real grenadine like Liber & Co. or make your own for a cleaner finish.
- Black grape juice should be 100% juice Welch’s or similar brands work fine.
- Make sure everything is cold before pouring.
- If you want to make it ahead of time, mix the tequila and orange juice first and store it chilled until ready to build.
Similar Cocktails
- Lychee Sunrise Spritz
- Lazy Daze
- Rose Long Island Iced Tea
- Peach Tequila Sunrise Punch
- Tequila Sunrise
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila
- 3 oz orange juice
- 0.5 oz grenadine
- 1 oz black grape juice
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions
- Fill the rocks glass with ice.
- Pour the tequila and orange juice into the glass and stir gently.
- Slowly add the grenadine by pouring it down the side or over the back of a spoon, it should settle at the bottom.
- Gently float the black grape juice on top.
- Garnish with an orange slice.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For clean layers, make sure the grape juice is poured slowly and the glass is still.
- You can chill each juice before building to keep it cold without ice.
- If black grape juice isn’t available, try a mix of concord grape juice and a splash of cranberry.
