More than just a spirit, tequila is a cornerstone of Mexican identity. Nestled amidst the rugged terrain and vibrant culture of Jalisco lies a unique and exhilarating experience. The only vintage train in all of Mexico is the tequila train, formerly known as the Jose Cuervo Express. It runs between Tequila, a Pueblo Mágico (or Magic Town), and Guadalajara, a city in western Mexico.
Aboard Tequila Train
Enter the historic train and travel back in time to enjoy a glitzy train car cocktail party. You may experience agave harvesting, tequila tastings, and classic sightseeing when you take the Jose Cuervo Express. Along with Mexican bingo called Loteria, you’ll also be treated to Mexican delicacies and Jose Cuervo tequila cocktails while on board.
The journey begins at the historic city of Guadalajara, known as the cultural heart of Jalisco. The landscape outside transforms into a mesmerising tableau of rolling hills, verdant agave fields, and quaint villages steeped in tradition. From the fields where the majestic blue agave plants sway in the breeze to the ancient ovens where they are slowly roasted to perfection, every step of the tequila-making process is steeped in tradition and craftsmanship. Visitors witness firsthand the skilled hands of the jimadores as they harvest the ripe agave hearts, and the expert distillers who transform them into liquid gold through age-old techniques passed down through generations.
The 11-hour trip departs from Guadalajara at 9 a.m., with a morning or sunset train option. The remaining portion of the trip is completed by bus. To help you better appreciate what you’re drinking, a master tequilier—a sommelier of tequila—will also lead you through a three-glass sampling along the way.
Here, amidst cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, passengers are invited to embark on a guided tour of the famed Jose Cuervo distillery. Finally, you will visit La Rojeña, the oldest distillery in Latin America, owned by Jose Cuervo.
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Inside The Train
The train has four distinct wagons with unique experiences: the Express, Premium Plus, Diamond, and Elite. For example, the Diamond Wagon’s leather and wood details, together with its embossed ceiling. The most striking is the Elite Wagon, an opulent vehicle with wood panelling, floor-to-ceiling windows, and thoughtfully designed, cosy interiors that provide an excellent vantage point for taking in the passing countryside while sipping tequila. Along with an open bar filled with Jose Cuervo spirits, limited batch Reserva de la Familia Platino, Reposado, and Extra Añejo tequilas, the Elite experience also includes a line of specially made drinks.
The true highlight of the tour awaits at the tasting room, where guests are treated to a curated selection of Jose Cuervo’s finest tequilas. In addition to the cocktails, you’ll be served delectable regional fare to experience a true taste of Mexico and onboard entertainment.
Cost: $111 to $147 for adults; $98 for kids between the ages of 6 and 7; free for kids under 5 who don’t need a seat.
Cover image credits: Instagram/Jose Cuervo Express
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