Savannah Sunrise

I love Savannah, and the Savannah sunrise cocktail is a tribute to everything that makes it magical: slow mornings, sweet peaches and a little Southern drama. This drink takes the best parts of a tequila sunrise and a peach Bellini and gives them a Georgia twist, with rich peach nectar, a splash of orange juice, blanco tequila, a topper of Prosecco and a drizzle of crème de cassis.

This drink is layered, fizzy and dangerously easy to sip. It’s quickly become my go-to for brunch, book club or when I need an excuse to pop a bottle of Prosecco.

Savannah Sunrise Ingredients

• Blanco tequila: Blanco tequila is crisp and unaged with a clean agave flavor. It cuts through the sweetness of juice, which is why many people think it’s the best tequila for margaritas. It keeps the drink bright and balanced without the oaky or caramel notes of aged tequilas.
• Peach liqueur: Peach liqueur adds rich, concentrated peach flavor that enhances the nectar without watering it down. It gives the drink that signature Southern fruitiness and a smooth, slightly syrupy body.
• Orange juice: A splash of orange juice adds acidity and citrus zip, rounding out the richness of the peach flavors. It helps balance the cocktail and mimics the sunny taste of a traditional tequila sunrise.
• Peach juice or nectar: Peach is the heart of the drink. It gives a lush, velvety texture and natural sweetness. Nectar is thicker and more decadent, while juice is lighter. Either works, depending on what you’re in the mood for.
• Crème de cassis: Inspired by the berry kiss of a Kir royal, we use crème de cassis as the darkest layer of our sunrise. This deep purple black currant liqueur sinks to the bottom of the glass for a striking visual effect.
• Prosecco or dry sparkling wine: Prosecco adds effervescence and a refreshing finish that keeps the drink light and sippable. Go for a brut or dry variety to balance out the fruit and liqueur.
• Peach or orange slice: A slice of fresh peach or a twist of orange makes the drink feel extra polished. It’s a simple finishing touch that adds visual appeal and a fresh aroma.

Directions

Step 1: Fill your glass with ice

Fill a tall glass, like a highball or a Collins glass, with ice cubes.

Step 2: Add the spirits and juices

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Pour the tequila, peach liqueur, orange juice and peach juice or nectar into the glass, in that order.

Step 3: Add the crème de cassis to create layering

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Drizzle the crème de cassis over a barspoon or down the side of the glass so it flows to the bottom.

Step 4: Top it off with bubbles

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Top with a splash of Prosecco or dry sparkling wine.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Garnish with a peach or an orange slice and serve immediately.

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Savannah Sunrise Variations

• Change the berry to cherry: Swap the crème de cassis for traditional grenadine and use blood orange juice for a duskier hue.
• Swap out the spirit: Use vodka or gin in place of tequila for a different spirit base that still plays well with fruit. For a smoky, earthy flavor, give mezcal a try.
• Make it a mocktail: Skip the alcohol and combine peach nectar, orange juice and a drizzle of berry syrup. Top the drink off with sparkling water or nonalcoholic Prosecco.

Can you make Savannah sunrises ahead of time?

The ideal layering effect requires each cocktail to be made fresh and individually, but if you’re just going for flavor, making a batched cocktail for the crowd is the way to go. Mix the tequila, peach liqueur, orange juice and peach juice or nectar in a pitcher and chill beforehand. When you’re ready to serve drinks, pour the mixture into individual glasses over ice, drizzle in the crème de cassis for that layered look, and finish each glass with Prosecco.

Savannah Sunrise Tips

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What’s the best type of glass for a Savannah sunrise?

A highball or Collins glass is ideal to show off the layers and keep the bubbles contained. If you’re aiming for a rustic vibe, vintage Mason jars will earn you bonus points.

What can you serve with a Savannah Sunrise?

A Savannah brunch should feel easy, a little indulgent and full of Southern charm. Pair your Savannah sunrise with classics like shrimp and grits, buttery biscuits and crispy fried green tomatoes. A peach French toast wouldn’t be a bad idea, either!