Solis Ortus — Latin for “rising sun” — is our tangy, tantalizing tribute to daybreak in a glass. Built on reposado tequila and finished with a curl of smoked rosemary, it is a sophisticated agave cocktail that captures the theatre we love at Apex Aqua Vitae in Apex, North Carolina.
Sunrise, refined
Libelula reposado tequila brings soft, oak-aged agave warmth. We balance it with an acid-adjusted blanc vermouth for a dry, wine-like backbone, then fold in a bright orange sorbet oleo-saccharum — a citrus-oil syrup that adds concentrated, tangy sweetness. Smoked rosemary crowns the glass, releasing its aroma with the first sip.
The drink is citrus-forward and dry rather than sweet, with a savory herbal finish. It is the kind of cocktail that reveals something new as it warms, rewarding the drinker who slows down to notice.
Who it is for
Solis Ortus is ideal for tequila and mezcal lovers, margarita drinkers ready to graduate to something more nuanced, and anyone who appreciates a smoky, aromatic finish. It makes a memorable first round for a celebration or a thoughtful nightcap.
Pair it with our Crab Cake Bites or Chicken Quesadilla Cornucopias for a bright, zesty counterpoint.
A study in smoke and citrus
The finishing flourish on Solis Ortus — that curl of smoked rosemary — does more than look dramatic. Its aroma hits before the first sip, priming the palate for the savory, citrus-driven cocktail beneath. Pairing it with an acid-adjusted vermouth keeps the whole drink bright and wine-like rather than sweet.
It is one of the most nuanced agave cocktails in Apex, NC, and a natural next step for anyone who has worked their way through margaritas and palomas. If you love it, our tequila and mezcal library runs deep — ask for a sipping recommendation to keep the exploration going.
Good to know
- Bar: Apex Aqua Vitae — Liquid Luxury & Bar
- Category: Signature Cocktails
- Where: Apex, North Carolina, in the heart of the Raleigh–Durham–Cary Triangle
- Easy to reach from: Cary, Raleigh, Morrisville and Holly Springs
- Explore or reserve: lightpink-chamois-855074.hostingersite.com/ or call 919-267-4246
- Follow along: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for new pours and events
Frequently asked questions
What tequila is in Solis Ortus?
Libelula reposado tequila, balanced with acid-adjusted blanc vermouth, orange sorbet oleo-saccharum and smoked rosemary.
Is Solis Ortus a sweet cocktail?
No, it is tangy and dry with a savory, herbal finish rather than a sweet one.
Where can I order Solis Ortus in Apex, NC?
At Apex Aqua Vitae, where it anchors our handcrafted signature cocktail menu.
Visit Apex Aqua Vitae — Liquid Luxury & Bar in Apex, North Carolina. Explore the full menu at lightpink-chamois-855074.hostingersite.com/ or call 919-267-4246. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Complete the tour under Handcrafted Cocktails.
