Discovering the Soul of Tequila: A Journey Through Jalisco's Distilleries

Forget about Napa Valley! If you're passionate about tequila, your next trip should be to Jalisco, Mexico, the birthplace of this legendary spirit. While some flock to California or France for wine, true tequila aficionados know the real magic happens where the agave grows and the distilleries hum. The town of Tequila, nestled about 1.5 hours from Guadalajara (easily accessible via direct flights from major US cities like Dallas, Los Angeles, Chicago and Phoenix), is the epicenter of tequila production. With over 50 distilleries in the region, offering tours and tastings, it's a must-visit destination.

I recently organized a milestone birthday trip for a group of friends, centered around exploring the world of tequila. Here's a recap of our unforgettable experience:

Our first stop was La Rojeña, Casa Cuervo's main distillery (they have two other facilities nearby), where their premium brand, Reserva de La Familia, is produced and aged. We opted for the Reserva de la Familia packaging experience, a comprehensive tour that walked us through the entire tequila-making process. From learning about agave cultivation (including the years it takes for the plants to reach optimal sugar levels) to witnessing the intricate distillation process, we gained a deep appreciation for the craft.

A highlight of the tour was our tasting in the aging cave. You are surrounded by barrels of tequila, where you also learn about the rich history of the Jose Cuervo brand. The real treat? We got to fill, label and seal our own bottles of Reserva de la Familia — a truly unique souvenir! The day culminated in a private lunch at the nearby Centenary Estate and Hacienda. It was complete with a live mariachi band – pure Mexican magic!

Our second day offered two contrasting distillery experiences. First, we visited La Fortaleza, an artisanal distillery committed to preserving traditional tequila-making methods. It was fascinating to see how tequila was made 100 years ago, with mostly manual processes and handcrafted bottles and bottle toppers. Their premium tequila was exceptional, and the glimpse into their dedication to tradition was truly inspiring.

Our second visit was to El Tequileño, a distillery that blends artisanal techniques with more modern practices. This tour provided a valuable perspective on the spectrum of tequila production. We enjoyed a tasting of three of their flagship tequilas, further refining our palates.

Where to Stay in Tequila

If you prefer to stay in the town of Tequila, I recommend these hotels:

• Real de Animas (adjacent to La Rojeña)

• Casa Salles (adjacent to El Tequileño)

• Matices Hotel de Barricas (offering unique rooms inside wine barrels!)

Our trip also included a visit to Tlaquepaque. It is a beautiful colonial town that was once a popular getaway for Guadalajara's elite families in the 1800s. Today, the historic houses have been transformed into charming shops, restaurants and art galleries. Tlaquepaque is also renowned for its talented glassblowing and ceramics artists.

Sweet treats and tequila heaven in Guadalajara

Don't miss Nuestros Dulces, a candy store with several locations in Guadalajara. The Reforma Street branch features a candy workshop where you can learn about and sample handmade treats. Their Juarez Street location is a tequila lover's paradise, boasting over 2,000 different tequila brands!

Pack up and head home after an extraordinary tequila adventure.

Guadalajara restaurant recommendations:

• Rio Viejo

• Bruna

• La Docena

• Xocol

• Octo

• Quelite