“Wine is not just about taste; it’s a journey through history, culture, and passion,” says Doug Diefenthaler, co-founder and special advisor at VARA Winery. This philosophy has propelled VARA into the national spotlight, securing three gold medals and a coveted double gold at the 2025 Santé Wine and Spirits Competition.
A Legacy Rooted in History
Nestled in the heart of New Mexico, VARA Winery’s story is as effervescent as its acclaimed sparkling wines. Few realize that New Mexico holds a distinguished place in American wine history. “New Mexico is the birthplace of American wine,” Doug shares with a proud smile. “Monks planted Vitis vinifera here in 1629, long before California’s famous vineyards took root.” This fact, often overshadowed by California’s wine prestige, inspired Doug’s mission to honor and revive this rich legacy.
The Birth of VARA Winery
Doug’s passion led to the creation of VARA Winery, a venture that bridges Spanish and American winemaking traditions. Partnering with renowned wine consultants Bob Linquist, Louisa Lingquist Sawyer, and Spanish wine expert Christopher Cananan, Doug crafted a unique approach. “We import fermentation-stable juice from Spain and source exceptional grapes from California’s South Central Coast,” he explains. This innovative blend of cultures and terroirs has become VARA’s signature.
The Sparkling Star: Laurent Gruet
The turning point came with the arrival of Laurent Gruet, a name synonymous with excellence in sparkling wine. “I wanted creative freedom to push boundaries,” Laurent reflects on his decision to join VARA in December 2020 after leaving Gruet Winery. Under his expert guidance, VARA produced its first traditional method sparkling wine in February 2021, debuting to critical acclaim in the fall of 2023.
“Working with VARA allowed me to experiment and refine techniques,” Laurent shares. His meticulous craftsmanship and innovative spirit have been instrumental in elevating VARA’s sparkling wines to award-winning status.
A Toast to Triumph at the 2025 Santé Competition
VARA’s dedication bore fruit at the 2025 Santé Wine and Spirits Competition, where their sparkling wines dazzled judges, earning three gold medals and a prestigious double gold. “These awards validate our commitment to quality and innovation,” Doug remarks. “But more importantly, they highlight New Mexico’s rightful place in America’s wine story.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding Horizons
At 69, Doug remains deeply involved, mentoring VARA’s team and steering its growth. “Our goal is national distribution,” he states. “But beyond that, we want people to experience our wines and discover the history in every glass.”
As VARA Winery continues to blend the old with the new, its sparkling wines serve as more than just a delightful sip—they are a celebration of history, craftsmanship, and an enduring passion for excellence.
2025 Santé Wine and Spirits Competition Results for VARA Wines
| PRODUCT | SCORE x/5 | AWARD |
| VARA xLG Blanc de Blancs Signature Series | 4.60 | DOUBLE GOLD |
| VARA Silverhead Brut | 4.80 | GOLD |
| VARA 2023 New Mexico Sparkling Brut | 4.00 | GOLD |
| VARA Silverhead Zero Dosage | 3.60 | SILVER |
| VARA Siverhead Brut Rosé | 4.40 | GOLD |
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