What additional step is taken when serving a Tequila Sunrise compared to other highball drinks?

When preparing a Tequila Sunrise, the characteristic visual appeal is created by the way grenadine is added to the drink. This method involves slowly pouring or swirling the grenadine down the sides of the glass after the other ingredients—tequila and orange juice—have been combined. This technique allows the grenadine to settle at the bottom, creating a vibrant gradient effect that resembles a sunrise, with the deep red at the bottom and the bright orange at the top.

This attention to the presentation is a hallmark of a Tequila Sunrise, distinguishing it from standard highball cocktails where the ingredients are typically mixed more uniformly without specific visual layering. While other drinks may involve different techniques or ingredients, the swirling of grenadine is unique to this cocktail’s preparation method, making it essential for achieving the classic appearance associated with a Tequila Sunrise.