As one of the famous Food Blogs In India, I have spent many an evening swinging back tequila shots with lime and salt. But my writing of travel blogs about alcohol took me to the exact focal point of the existence of this drink. Taking the liberty of being one of the Famous Travel Blog in India really helped in planning a trip with Mexico Tourism Board. I take you around Mexico in a tequila trail to discover the rich cultural heritage behind the drink. My research leads me to some of the most beautiful blue agave plantations all over Mexico. The Tequila Trail is one of the best ways to explore the Mexican countryside and explore essential parts of their cuisine. So, pack up your livers and come along.
The origins of the first Tequila is shrouded in mystery. Theories abound whether it’s production started in the town of Tequila or in the valley of Amatitan. But what we do know that is Tequila production is limited to the state of Jalisco and a few neighboring areas. The particular agave plant from tequila can be manufactured is the Weber Blue Agave, farms of which dot the Jalisco countryside serving more than 50 distilleries.
The journey begins
Our tequila trail starts in Guadalajara, about 550 kms west of Mexico City. The whole city along with the old haciendas and the agave fields have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Our first destination is the EL Lano distillery. A family which has been making tequila for 5 generations, the Orendain family are proud owners of Arette and Tres Agaves brands. I am lucky enough to witness the production of tequila in all it’s glory. I try to understand the complex nuances behind the drink that has become the lifeline of Mexico.
Casa Suaza
The Casa Suaza distillery is next on our itinerary. We pay respects to the U.S Tequila godfather before moving deeper into the hacienda. There is a serenity in the place that befuddles anyone coming from the cities. Beautiful tree lined pathways lead us to the agave fields. Fields dotted with blue agave plants spread out in all directions as a Jimador (Agave Farmer) shows me how to harvest the plant and find the central portion of the plant. I walk back to “The Perseverance” or the distillery. A sweet smell hangs in the air as the agaves are roasted and then all the sugars extracted from them before starting the fermentation.
Train Marathon: Jose Cuervo Express
Our last stop is to this magical town of Mexico. The Jose Cuervo Express is my next destination as I hop onto the train at 9 o clock in the morning. The first order of things is another master class that gives us a short blow up of the history and process of making tequila. La Rojena distillery is the oldest of the lot. The distinctive crow marks the entrance of the distillery as I descend into the dark cellar of the Cuervo family. It is a place which highlights the hard work and simplicity of the Mexicans. The silence and the darkness of the moment envelopes me as I close my eyes and draw in a lung full of the woody aromas.
I came to Mexico to learn about tequila, I am leaving with a piece of the country’s history.Please read our blog Salt And Sandals for exciting Travel stories around the globe. (Indian Travel Blogs).
