Tequila

Tequila is today learning to surf on the wave of serious mezcal interest that has only emerged in the past 20 years. Long the only mezcal of any respectability, today Tequila's century of experience has given the region a strong hand at navigating this only recently resurgent competition. The results are just what you'd expect: better tequilas in more artistic varieties, with more care put toward really delivering the best product. 

Tequila is a sophisticated, refined, and subtle spirit. It's also one that comes with a full range of traditions, artistry, and know-how that you simply won't find on any of the newer, much younger mezcal tours around Mexico. And the little town of Tequila is the center of it all. 

You're invited. The town at the center of the region, and obviously, the world center of blue agave Tequila production, is also a celebrated site for the spirit, and everything that goes into it. Distilleries will have you in for tours and tastings. Museums will educate you on the entire process from cultivation to bottling and serving. But people come to stroll the whimsical streets, and for the experience of the wind calling over the utterly graceful fields of the famous spiky blue plants. There are dozens of other things to do, explore, learn about, and enjoy. And it is a very family friendly environment, too.

Nearly all the food served is meant to be paired with the famous cocktails or fingers of straight, neat tequila. Artistry starts with the drink, but extends into the oak barrels, and the reverence with which the stories of the town and region are told. 

Most visitors to Tequila are going to arrive after a visit to, or at least a stop in, Guadalajara. Bus service is frequent and usually takes about two hours, although a car or even a taxi will make the trip in less than an hour (depending on traffic). The Tren Tequila Express departs daily from very nearly in the center of Guadalajara, but only on Friday through Sundays. They offer a variety of service classes and tour packages, and all tickets are round trip for the same day. If you're planning to stay a few days, and many people will hope to, it's best to arrive by car or bus.