Sipping Tequila in Style: Why the Herradura Express Train is a Must-Try Experience

For those seeking a unique and luxurious tequila experience, the Herradura Express Train is an absolute must-try. This train journey will take you on a scenic tour of Mexico’s Jalisco region, home to the world-renowned Herradura tequila distillery. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the countryside and traditional Mexican music and dance performances. But the real highlight of the journey is the opportunity to sample some of the finest tequila in the world, all while sipping in style aboard the beautifully restored train. With expert guides and top-notch food and entertainment, this experience is not only indulgent but also educational. Whether you’re a tequila aficionado or simply looking for a unique travel experience, the Herradura Express Train is sure to exceed your expectations. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!

The state of Jalisco is the birthplace of two of our most favorite things: tequila and mariachi music!!

I know, I know, you may be wondering, why would you want to visit any other part of Mexico… but trust us, there are so many incredible things to see and do — you won’t want to miss it!

When you come to Jalisco, Mexico, you’re visiting the heart of Mexico and you can’t leave without fully enjoying tequila.

History of Herradura Tequila

Herradura is a tequila brand that has been around for over 150 years. It was founded in 1870 by Félix López, who named the brand after the horseshoe (herradura in Spanish) that hangs above the entrance to the distillery. The horseshoe is believed to bring good luck and has become an iconic symbol of the brand. Herradura is known for its high-quality tequila, which is made using traditional methods and 100% blue agave. The agave is grown on the brand’s own estate, ensuring that only the best quality plants are used. Also, we were delighted to learn Herradura was the home to the first female Master Tequila Distiller — Master distiller Teresa Lara López — who is now retired, elevated the craft of distilling tequila for 30 years.

Today, Herradura is owned by Brown-Forman, a company that is committed to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. The brand has won numerous awards for its tequila, including the prestigious Double Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

What makes the Herradura Express Train unique

The Herradura Express Train is a unique tequila experience that combines luxury travel with the opportunity to learn about the tequila-making process. The train is beautifully restored and features elegant carriages with comfortable seating and panoramic windows that offer stunning views of the countryside.

One of the most unique aspects of the Herradura Express Train is the opportunity to visit the Casa Herradura distillery. Guests are taken on a tour of the distillery, where they can see the tequila-making process up close and learn about the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

The Herradura Express Train experience

The Herradura Tequila tour leaves from the Guadalajara Ferromex train station every Saturday. The train departs in the morning and takes guests on a scenic tour of the Jalisco region.

Guests are greeted with a welcome cocktail upon boarding the train.

You have three types of train cars to choose from. We were in the club car, which boasts a lovely bar with stool seating, lots of comfortable lounges and huge wall televisions.

The journey from Guadalajara to Casa Herradura

The journey from Guadalajara to Casa Herradura is a scenic tour of the Jalisco region, offering stunning views of the countryside. The train passes through traditional Mexican villages and past fields of blue agave, giving guests a glimpse into the tequila-making process.

We sat with a very fun group and enjoyed their company, as we sipped delicately mixed Herradura cocktails and traveled through Agave fields. A bus transported us to the Herradura hacienda, where we broke up into small tour groups.

Touring Casa Herradura and learning about the tequila-making process

The visit to Casa Herradura is a highlight of the Herradura Express Train experience. Guests are taken on a tour of the distillery, where they can see the tequila-making process up close and learn about the brand’s commitment to sustainability. The tour includes a visit to the barrel room, where the tequila is aged, and a tasting of some of the brand’s finest tequilas. The expert guides provide information about the different types of tequila, the aging process, and the flavor notes. Guests also have the opportunity to see the agave fields and learn about the harvesting process. The tour provides a comprehensive overview of the tequila-making process, from the agave plant to the finished product.

We really enjoyed learning — and seeing — the various steps it takes to produce the potent elixir that makes people’s clothes fall off… so we hear. The Herradura family has been making tequila for generations, and we were able to see the old ovens and grinder that they used to create the tequila.

Curtiss tried his hand at harvesting an agave plant… I think the plant won that round. ;-)

Once the tour was over, we were hungry and ready for a refreshing drink — you bet your bippy, there was tequila in that drink!

We were seated at long tables with people in our group. Cold drinks we served and an incredible three-course meal, that was thoroughly enjoyed!

After dessert was cleared, the entertainment started!

There was dancing and of course, boisterous mariachi!

The train ride back to Guadalajara passed as if in a dream. We sat with the same group, and I think everyone was full of good food, good drink and happy to be relaxing after a long day.

Other activities and attractions in the area

The Jalisco region offers a number of other activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. The city of Guadalajara is known for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums and historical landmarks to explore.

The region is also home to the town of Tequila, which is named after the famous drink. Visitors can take a tour of the town and learn about the history of tequila, as well as sample some of the local varieties.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the countryside on horseback or take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of the landscape. The region is also known for its delicious cuisine, with numerous restaurants serving traditional Mexican dishes.

We can’t rave enough about the Herradura Tequila Train tour! Whether you’re visiting Guadalajara for a few days or have lived in the area for years (I’m talking to you folks, living in Ajijic!) this incredible day trip!

Thank you, Herradura for this wonderful experience, and for helping us check this off our bucket list!

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