Vodka Sunrise

By Melissa Search Jump to Recipe

Bold flavors of orange and pomegranate taste like pure sunshine in this splendid Vodka Sunrise.

I’ve heard that any day the sun rises is a good day, but I say any day with a Vodka Sunrise is an even better day! While the sun still rises daily, it is COLD in New York right now, and my friends have recently been participating in Dry January. But, with the days getting longer and February now here to stay, the vodka sunrise is the perfect drink to warm up the vibe.

Speaking of warm vibes and sunshine, the Vodka Sunrise was born in California. Kind of. I can’t find the pivotal moment the Vodka Sunrise was born, but the classic Tequila Sunrise that it’s based on has a badass story. Legend has it that the cocktail was invented at the Trident Bar in Sausalito, California at a kick-off party for the Rolling Stones tour. Supposedly, Mick Jagger loved the cocktail and enjoyed it throughout the tour, which was appropriately designated “The Cocaine and Tequila Sunrise Tour.” While this story is amazing as is, I’m just going to suggest that one day someone replaced the tequila with vodka and created the Vodka Sunrise.

The Vodka Sunrise is an ideal cocktail for drinkers who prefer fruity and sweet or have a less developed taste for alcoholic beverages. It is comparable to a combination of a Screwdriver Cocktail and a Shirley Temple, minus the effervescence. Orange juice has a bold citrusy taste that almost masks the vodka, while the pomegranate-rich, syrupy sweetness of the grenadine adds a candy-like flavor.

The Art of Layering Cocktails

Layering cocktails, if you have never done it, may seem intimidating. However, the Vodka Sunrise makes it easy since the layers happen organically. Not to get too sciencey, but the ingredients with the lowest amount of density are the lightest and will float to the top. Those which are more dense are heavier. In the Vodka Sunrise, the grenadine is the heaviest, which is why it travels to the bottom of the glass, while the vodka and OJ float to the top.

For many other layered cocktails, you will use a spoon to layer. For example, a Buttery Nipple Shot involves layering butterscotch schnapps and Irish Cream. To create the layered effect, pour your bottom spirit first, then pour the top spirit over it on the back of a spoon. This will slow down the pour and help disperse it evenly over the bottom layer. It’s like a little work of art.

What Is The Best Alcohol To Use To Make A Vodka Sunrise?

For the Vodka Sunrise, I prefer Tito’s or Ketel One. They are both considered premium with a price range around $20 to $30. These vodkas are smooth, with a neutral taste which almost disappears when mixed with bold flavors. You can even get away with using a cheaper vodka since the mixers cover the alcohol bite. I wouldn’t use something too high-end, since the quality would get lost in the mix.

WHAT GLASSWARE AND GARNISH TO USE?

Serve the Vodka Sunrise in a highball glass which shows off its vibrant colors. It is then garnished with an orange slice and maraschino cherry to match.

WHEN SHOULD YOU SERVE A VODKA SUNRISE?

This drink is great for a brunch party. Its vibrant colors also pair well with a summer bash or backyard BBQ.

Similar Drinks To The Vodka Sunrise

Naturally, any drinks with orange juice, like a Vodka Sunrise, are great with brunch. They are also refreshing and pleasant enough if you need some “hair of the dog.” If you like the idea of sipping on a morning cocktail, possibly on vacation, or for an early afternoon celebration, here are some other ideas from Twist and Toast you are sure to love.

• Pineapple Mimosa – A sweet, refreshing twist on the staple brunch cocktail.
• Blood Orange Margarita – Turn it up and get the party started early with this vibrant, tangy cocktail.
• Sex On The Beach – The fruitiest of the daytime drinks, this peachy vodka mixture is the perfect addition to a fun afternoon.
• Virgin Mojito – If you vowed to never drink again after a wild night or choose to pass on booze, say yes to this minty fresh mocktail.