Berry Bomb
The Berry Bomb is sweet and fruity with a fizzy kick from the Sprite. The raspberry vodka adds a tart berry flavor that's balanced by the soda's sweetness. It's a light and effervescent drink that goes down easily.
Kentucky Sunrise Cocktail Recipe
Jump to Recipe ⬇️
Kentucky Sunrise Nutrition Facts
Calories:150
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol content:10%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 16, 2024
Contents
History
The Kentucky Sunrise is a cocktail that hails from the southern United States, a region known for its rich bourbon heritage. This drink is a delightful twist on the classic Tequila Sunrise, substituting bourbon for tequila, which gives it a distinctly American character.
- Who Would Like It?
- Bourbon enthusiasts
- Fans of citrus-flavored cocktails
- Those who enjoy sweet drinks with a hint of tartness
How Kentucky Sunrise Tastes?
The Kentucky Sunrise offers a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors. The bourbon provides a warm, oaky backbone, while the orange juice adds a fresh, fruity zest. The grenadine delivers a syrupy sweetness that rounds out the drink, making it both refreshing and indulgent.
Interesting facts about Kentucky Sunrise
- The Kentucky Sunrise is often enjoyed during brunch or as a leisurely evening cocktail.
- It's a popular choice for Derby Day celebrations.
- The visual appeal of the sunrise effect makes it a favorite for Instagram-worthy cocktail photos.
Ingredients
- Grenadine: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Jim beam bourbon: 1 oz(30ml)
- Orange juice: 3 oz(90ml)
- Maraschino cherry: 1
- Orange wheel: 1
Detailed Ingredients Explanation
Emma Rose
#
Alex Green
Grenadine (0.5 oz)
This sweet, red syrup adds a touch of fruity flavor and creates the beautiful sunrise effect in the drink. If you use too much, the drink can become overly sweet, while if you use too little, the visual effect won't be as pronounced. A pomegranate syrup is an alternative that offers a similar color and tartness.
Mary Mitkina
#
Emma Rose
Jim Beam Bourbon (1 oz)
As the main spirit, bourbon provides a robust foundation with notes of vanilla and caramel. Using less will make the drink weak and overshadowed by the other flavors; more will overpower the subtleties of the grenadine and orange juice. If bourbon's not your thing, a milder whiskey might do the trick, though the drink will lose some of its signature kick.
Alex Green
#
Mary Mitkina
Orange Juice (3 oz)
Fresh is best here—it’s bright, slightly tart, and zesty, which counteracts the sweetness of the grenadine and complements the warmth of the bourbon. Too much juice and your cocktail becomes a morning beverage; too little and you'll miss out on the 'sunrise' experience. A mango juice could be an exotic twist, adding tropical flair.
Emma Rose
#
Alex Green
Maraschino Cherry (1)
Adds a festive garnish and a subtle almond-like flavor once you reach the bottom of the glass. Leave it out, and you deny yourself a tiny treat after finishing the drink. Luxardo cherries could be used for a richer, more indulgent twist.
Mary Mitkina
#
Emma Rose
Orange Wheel (1)
The orange wheel offers an aromatic garnish that signals the citrus flavors within and adds to the visual appeal. Without it, the presentation suffers but the flavor remains largely the same. A lemon twist would offer a sharper scent if you're looking for a zesty edge.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Kentucky Sunrise Drink
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Pour 1 oz of Jim Beam Bourbon over the ice.
- Add 3 oz of fresh orange juice.
- Slowly pour 0.5 oz of grenadine into the glass; it will sink and gradually rise to mix with the other ingredients, creating a 'sunrise' effect.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange wheel on the rim of the glass.
Pro Tips
- To enhance the 'sunrise' effect, pour the grenadine over the back of a spoon to slow its descent.
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for a brighter, more authentic flavor.
- Chill the glass beforehand to keep your cocktail cooler for longer.
Perfect Pairings
Pairing Suggestions for Kentucky Sunrise
Brunch Foods
The citrus notes of the cocktail pair wonderfully with breakfast staples such as pancakes, French toast, or a classic bacon and eggs platter. It's like a morning hug for your taste buds.
Barbecue
The smoky flavor of Jim Beam Bourbon finds its soulmate in barbecued meats. Ribs or pulled pork alongside a Kentucky Sunrise is a match made in heaven.
Spicy Foods
The sweetness of the grenadine and citrus from the orange juice can help balance the heat from dishes such as buffalo wings or jalapeño poppers.
Desserts
For a sweet finish, this cocktail goes well with apple pie or caramel-flavored desserts, complementing the caramel notes present in the bourbon.
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What you could change in Kentucky Sunrise
- Bourbon: If Jim Beam is not available, any good quality bourbon like Maker's Mark or Buffalo Trace can be used.
- Grenadine: In a pinch, raspberry syrup or pomegranate juice can substitute for grenadine, though the flavor profile will slightly change.
Explore all drinks starting with K here
And of course - twists🍹
Creative Twists on Kentucky Sunrise
Tropical Sunrise
Replace orange juice with equal parts pineapple and mango juice. The result is a more exotic, tropical drink that makes you want to sip it on a beach somewhere.
- Ingredients: 1 oz Jim Beam Bourbon, 1.5 oz Pineapple Juice, 1.5 oz Mango Juice, 0.5 oz Grenadine, 1 Maraschino Cherry, Pineapple Slice
- Taste: Sweeter and more tropical than the original, with pineapple providing a tangy kick.
Bluegrass Sunset
Swap grenadine for blackberry liqueur, which adds a deeper, more complex fruitiness. Ideal for those looking for a tangy and less sweet alternative.
- Ingredients: 1 oz Jim Beam Bourbon, 3 oz Orange Juice, 0.5 oz Blackberry Liqueur, 1 Blackberry, Orange Wheel
- Taste: Less sweet, with a berry-forward flavor that complements the bourbon nicely.
Amber Gold
Mix in a splash of apple cider to both the bourbon and orange juice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for an autumnal twist.
- Ingredients: 0.75 oz Jim Beam Bourbon, 2 oz Orange Juice, 1 oz Apple Cider, 0.5 oz Grenadine, Cinnamon Stick, Orange Wheel
- Taste: The apple cider adds a seasonal sweetness and depth that pairs beautifully with the bourbon's vanilla notes.
In case you forgot basics how to make Kentucky Sunrise
Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!
Frequently Asked Questions on Kentucky Sunrise
What type of glass should be used for a Kentucky Sunrise?
A highball glass is typically used for a Kentucky Sunrise to accommodate the ice and the volume of the drink.
Can Kentucky Sunrise be made in a large batch for parties?
Yes, you can multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix the bourbon and orange juice in a large pitcher. Add grenadine individually to each glass to achieve the sunrise effect when serving.
How important is the quality of the bourbon in a Kentucky Sunrise?
The quality of the bourbon can significantly affect the taste of the cocktail. Higher-quality bourbon will provide a smoother, more complex flavor profile.
Is it necessary to use fresh orange juice for a Kentucky Sunrise?
While bottled orange juice can be used, fresh orange juice is preferred for its brighter, fresher flavor that enhances the overall quality of the cocktail.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of a Kentucky Sunrise?
Yes, simply omit the bourbon and increase the orange juice, or use a non-alcoholic bourbon substitute for a similar flavor profile.
What are some common variations of the Kentucky Sunrise?
Variations may include adding a splash of club soda for fizz, using a different type of citrus juice, or incorporating flavored syrups or bitters.
How should I store unused grenadine?
Grenadine should be stored in a cool, dark place, or refrigerated after opening to maintain its flavor and prevent spoilage.
More similar recipes to Kentucky Sunrise!
Explore new cocktails you'd love!
highball glassPin It
Strawberry Blonde
The Strawberry Blonde cocktail offers a delightful blend of sweet and sour notes, with the freshness of strawberries shining through. The vodka provides a clean, crisp base, while the lemon juice adds a zesty tang. The simple syrup rounds out the drink with a touch of sweetness, and the club soda introduces a fizzy element that makes the cocktail light and refreshing.
Alpine Mule
The Alpine Mule offers a harmonious blend of spicy and sweet, with a botanical undercurrent. The Old Tom Gin provides a slightly sweeter base than typical gins, while the Génépy contributes a complex herbal profile. The lime juice adds a necessary tartness, and the ginger beer brings a peppery fizz that makes the drink both invigorating and comforting.
Margarita
The Margarita is a well-balanced cocktail with a bright, citrusy flavor. It is both sweet and sour, with the tanginess of lime juice complementing the sweetness of the orange liqueur. The tequila adds a strong, earthy backbone, while the salt rim enhances the overall taste and adds a savory touch.
Screwdriver
The Screwdriver cocktail offers a bright, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The smoothness of the vodka is complemented by the tangy and refreshing taste of the orange juice, making it a well-balanced and easy-to-drink cocktail.
Kamikaze
The Kamikaze cocktail has a refreshing, tangy taste with a hint of sweetness. It is a well-balanced mix of sour, sweet, and strong flavors, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy citrus-based cocktails.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned has a rich, complex taste that is both sweet and bitter. The whiskey provides a strong, warming base, while the sugar and bitters add a touch of sweetness and a hint of spice. The orange and cherry garnish add a subtle fruity note.
Mint Julep
The Mint Julep has a refreshing, sweet, and slightly minty taste. It is a well-balanced cocktail with a strong bourbon backbone and a cooling, herbal finish.
Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a complex and well-balanced cocktail, with a rich and bold taste. It has a bitter-sweet profile, with the bitterness of Campari complementing the sweetness of the vermouth. The whiskey adds warmth and depth, making it a perfect drink for sipping.
Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary is a savory, spicy, and tangy cocktail with a strong tomato flavor. The vodka adds a subtle kick, while the Worcestershire and hot sauce provide a complex depth of flavor. The lemon juice adds a touch of acidity, and the celery salt and black pepper give it a slight earthiness.
Bellini
The Bellini is a light, refreshing, and slightly sweet cocktail with a hint of tartness from the peach puree. The bubbles from the Prosecco add a pleasant effervescence, making it a perfect drink for warm weather and celebrations.
Mimosa
The Mimosa has a refreshing, light, and fruity taste. It is slightly sweet with a hint of tartness from the orange juice, and the sparkling wine adds a bubbly effervescence.