AFTER nine years away, a unique tequila train has finally restarted.
The Tequila Express in Mexico allows passengers to drink all-they-can, whilst whizzing through Jalisco’s UNESCO-listed countryside.
The Tequila Express returned last year, after a nine year hiatus.
Originally created in 1997, the original Tequila Express train journeyed from Guadalajara through Jalisco’s countryside.
However, the service was then abandoned in 2015 as it couldn’t compete with two other tequila trains – Jose Cuervo Express and the Herradura Express.
The Tequila Express returned following $9million (£6.6million) in investment by local governments, tourism and railroad companies.
Onboard, passengers are served food and of course, tequila, throughout the journey.
Visitors can alternatively choose to go on the Jose Cuervo Express, which runs between Guadalajara and Tequila on one-way, pre-curated itineraries.
Passengers can opt for either a sunrise or sunset tour, with four different cabin classes.
Included in the ticket, is time in Tequila itself – with opportunities to explore Mundo Cuervo facilities including the Juan Beckmann Gallardo Cultural Centre and La Rojeña Distillery.
In the basic Express class, there is a tequila tasting and tour.
On the other hand, the Elite package includes seating in the train’s most opulent cabin, with Mexican cuisine, tequila tasting and more activities.
The Herradura Express is then also similar, heading from Guadalajara to Tequila.
There are several cabin options are available as well as a Wagon Bar – an intimate Wagon Intermedio for small groups.
One visitor shared on Tripadvisor: “It is an unforgettable experience.”
Another added: “Great opportunity to learn about the tequila production process from field to glass, with tutored tastings and a tour of the distillery.
“The sunset train journey back was superb with wonderful food and non-stop, freshly made cocktails.
“Will remember the day for a lifetime.”
Today, Jalisco is home to around 150 registered distilleries and 20 of which, are in Tequila.
Whilst some of the train experiences available include a visit to a distillery, Tequila is also home to El Tequileño/Casa Salles – the only distillery on Tequila, where you can also stay.
The Casa Salles, El Tequileño’s boutique hotel offers a spa experience and is within walking distance of the city centre.
The venue also offers distillery tours and tastings, a restaurant and hiking and city tours via the hotel.
Tequila, to legally be tequila, mist be produced in Jalisco or one of the designated tequila municipalities located in four other states.
There is also a hidden bar in England named one of the world’s best – the only one in the UK to make the list.
Plus, you can now stay in a Tequila hotel where you can drink all the booze you want – and sleep in a barrel.
