Sparkling Tasting Hosted by Laurent Gruet

November 25, 2025

Join us for an extraordinary celebration of sparkling wine as we welcome legendary winemaker Laurent Gruet for two unforgettable nights in New Mexico.

Experience a guided tasting of VARA’s six beautifully crafted sparkling wines, each introduced with Laurent’s signature stories, expertise, and passion for the craft. Every tasting is paired with a curated charcuterie plate designed to complement each pour.

What’s Included at Both Events

Guided tasting of VARA’s family of six sparkling wines
Insights, stories, and Q&A with VARA’s Master Winemaker Laurent Gruet
Curated charcuterie plate
An evening of celebration, learning, and exceptional bubbles

A sparkling evening awaits—choose your location and join us for a night you won’t want to miss.

December 5th — Santa Fe Tasting Room

Time: 6:00 PM
Location: VARA Santa Fe Tasting Room

Enjoy an intimate evening with Laurent Gruet in the heart of Santa Fe. Sip, learn, and celebrate in our warm, welcoming tasting room.

December 6 — Balloon Fiesta Park Tasting Room in Albuquerque

Time: 6:00 PM
Location: VARA Balloon Fiesta Park Tasting Room

Join us in Albuquerque for a lively night of bubbles at our Balloon Fiesta Park location, featuring the same guided tasting and charcuterie pairing experience.

Postcards from Grandma | New recipe from Rome!

Ciao, my dear!

Rome is lovely in the fall—cool breezes, golden leaves, and quieter streets. I wandered through Piazza Navona today and found a little stall serving mulled wine. It was wonderfully fragrant—full of cinnamon, orange peel, and just a touch of sweetness. I wrapped my hands around the warm cup and enjoyed every soothing sip.

Sending love from this beautiful city.

With Love,
Grandma

Postcards from Grandma | New recipe from Goa!

Dear ones —
The sun in Goa is relentless, and the air smells of spice and sea. Yesterday I wandered through the old Latin Quarter and found a shaded café where sailors and merchants swap stories.
There I met a dashing traveler who shared the secret to surviving these sweltering days: gin and tonic, its bitterness softened with lime. They say it keeps the mosquitoes (and fever) away—but I think it keeps the spirits high. I sipped, listened to the waves, and felt the world open wide. Who knew medicine could taste like adventure?

Love you,
Grandma