About Us
At VARA, we are inspired by New Mexico’s boundary-pushing culture and the state’s nearly 400-year history of winemaking, which is as rich and storied as the region’s colorful landscapes.
Our winemakers are a passionate circle of professionals who use innovative techniques to craft wines that express a uniquely New Mexican point of view. They are master blenders with a deep understanding of the nuances of each grape variety, and experts at selecting and combining the finest ingredients. They ensure that only the highest-quality grapes are selected for blending and use the best of every vintage or batch to craft exceptional wines that are a testament to their expertise.
They are committed to constantly experimenting with new grape varieties, winemaking techniques, and blending methods to push the boundaries of what is possible in winemaking.
The Team
Laurent Gruet
Partner and Sparkling Winemaker
Laurent began his journey in Champagne with his father, Gilbert Gruet. At 16, Laurent was already making wine, and by 1984, he had planted 60 acres in New Mexico, eventually relocating there to develop his family's new project. Gruet Winery's first harvest was in 1987, and by 1999, production had reached 100,000 cases. After several accolades, including being named the best US winery in London, the Gruet family sold their winery in 2014. Laurent joined VARA in 2020, bringing over 32 years of winemaking experience to explore new varietals and innovate.
Sofian Himeur
Winemaker
Sofian has over 22 years of experience in the wine industry, beginning his career producing sparkling wines at Gruet Winery under the mentorship of his uncle, Laurent Gruet. He later became head winemaker at Iron Horse Vineyards in California's Russian River Valley, where he crafted multiple 90+ point wines and was recognized in Wine & Spirits Magazine's Top 100 wines in the world. Born in Troyes, France, and raised in New Mexico, Sofian grew up immersed in the family wine business founded by his grandfather, Gilbert Gruet. Known for his impeccable standards, he brings his expertise back to VARA, where he is excited to continue making world-class wines.
Louisa Sawyer Lindquist
Partner and Winemaker
Louisa is celebrated as the “First Lady of Albarino” by Tasting Panel Magazine. Her passion for wine began in Yosemite National Park and led her to an internship at Hargrave Winery. She gained experience in various roles, including distribution and sales, and fell in love with Spanish wines. In 2000, Louisa founded Verdad Wine Cellars, focusing on Spanish varietals grown in California's Central Coast. She also served on the board of TAPAS and advocates for biodynamic, organic, and sustainable farming practices, blending her love of Spanish varietals with VARA's mission.
Bob Lindquist
Partner and Winemaker
Bob has been recognized as one of the "World’s 50 Most Influential Winemakers" by Wine & Spirits. His career began in 1975 as a “cellar rat” and evolved through roles at San Martin Winery and a wine shop in Santa Ynez Valley. In 1982, he founded Qupé at Zaca Mesa Winery and later co-founded Clendenen Lindquist Vintners’ Winery. Bob and his wife, Louisa, launched Lindquist Family Wines in 2019. Known for his innovation and passion for Santa Barbara County, Bob brings his extensive expertise to VARA, continuing his legacy of winemaking excellence.
Doug Diefenthaler
Co-Founder, Partner and Board Member
Doug earned his degree in Agricultural Economics from Ohio State University, where his interest in wine began. Starting as a wine sales representative in Colorado, he was recruited by various prominent distributors across the country. In 1989, he co-founded New Mexico Wine Patrol, Inc., with another wine expert in the area. After meeting Xavier Zamarripa in 2009 and engaging in extensive discussions about the pleasures of the table, Doug and Xavier founded VARA in late 2013.