Paul Kushner
The Lagerita Sunrise is a vibrant blend of tequila, orange, and pomegranate with the crisp finish of lager. Layered with tropical flavor and fiery rimmed spice, it’s a bold twist on the classic beer cocktail, perfect for warm evenings or weekend brunch with a kick.
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Tasting Notes
The Lagerita Sunrise brings together the clean strength of tequila, citrus brightness, and a crisp lager finish. The pomegranate juice deepens the flavor while also adding a glowing gradient to the drink. Orange juice and triple sec contribute a light, sweet tang that balances the edge of the tequila, while the lager adds refreshing effervescence and subtle bitterness. The salted chili rim creates a lively contrast, adding a gentle heat that highlights the citrus and complements the cool body of the drink. Each sip is balanced with juicy freshness, mild spice, and a smooth, beer-backed texture.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare a Lagerita Sunrise, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for blending the tequila, juices, and triple sec. A jigger helps ensure accurate measurements, especially for the strong and citrus elements. A fine strainer keeps the drink clear when pouring over fresh ice. Use a small plate or shallow bowl for preparing the chili-salt rim. A bar spoon may be helpful for layering the pomegranate juice cleanly at the end. This cocktail is best served in a hurricane glass, which allows room for plenty of ice, the lager, and the layered juice presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz orange juice
- 0.75 oz triple sec
- 4 oz lager
- 1 oz pomegranate juice
- Sea salt and crushed chili flakes for rimming
- Lime wedge, for garnish
Instructions
- Mix the sea salt and crushed chilis on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a hurricane glass to moisten, then dip into the salt mixture to coat. Set the glass aside.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, orange juice, and triple sec with a handful of ice. Shake until well chilled.
- Strain into the prepared hurricane glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with lager, then slowly pour in the pomegranate juice and let it settle for a layered effect.
- Serve immediately with a lime wedge.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for a cleaner, more balanced taste
- Chill your lager before pouring to avoid excessive foam
- Slowly pour the pomegranate juice down the side of the glass or over the back of a spoon for the best sunrise effect
- Choose a clear, light-colored lager to keep the gradient clean
- Use a high-quality, 100% agave tequila blanco for a smoother finish
- Adjust chili flakes in the rim mix based on your heat preference
- Add extra lime juice if you want more brightness
- For a bolder twist, try using a chili-infused tequila
- Garnish with a dried citrus wheel for extra visual appeal
- Serve immediately so the layered effect stays distinct
When to Serve
The Lagerita Sunrise works well for daytime events, summer parties, and weekend brunches. Its bright color and beer-based refreshment make it a hit at outdoor barbecues, poolside lounging, and warm-weather gatherings. It’s also a fun alternative to a traditional beer or margarita, offering more flavor and complexity without straying too far from casual enjoyment. The presentation makes it an ideal drink for entertaining, and it’s especially appealing when served right after preparing the layers. If you’re looking to serve something unexpected but accessible, this drink is a great way to mix things up.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Tequila
- Espolòn Blanco
- Olmeca Altos Plata
- Cazadores Blanco
- Milagro Silver
- El Tesoro Blanco
Triple Sec
- Cointreau
- DeKuyper Triple Sec
- Bols Triple Sec
- Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
- Combier Liqueur d’Orange
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
- Small plate
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz orange juice
- 0.75 oz triple sec
- 4 oz lager
- 1 oz pomegranate juice
- Sea salt and crushed chili flakes for rimming
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Mix the sea salt and crushed chilis on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a hurricane glass to moisten, then dip into the salt mixture to coat. Set the glass aside.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, orange juice, and triple sec with a handful of ice. Shake until well chilled.
- Strain into the prepared hurricane glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with lager, then slowly pour in the pomegranate juice and let it settle for a layered effect.
- Serve immediately with a lime wedge.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use a light lager for a crisp finish that doesn’t overpower the citrus and pomegranate.
- Pour the pomegranate juice slowly over the back of a spoon for a more defined sunrise effect.
- Adjust the chili-to-salt ratio depending on your spice preference.
