VARA Winery & Distillery

Nice flight of Spanish style bubbles and a tapas plate. Attentive and helpful staff, relaxed vibe with an older crowd.

I came here for a bachelorette dinner with a group of friends. The atmosphere is nice for a quiet meal with drinks. We sat in the inside area and got the popcorn, spinach salad, tapas board, papas bravas, grilled asparagus, and the chicken pintxos. When I made the reservation I was informed that there was a limited menu due to there being only one chef in the kitchen, but you really couldn't tell. The food came out quickly and was so delicious. The group ordered several different cocktails and the bar even offers Bubly and some of their cocktail as mocktails- which was great for our group because half the ladies don't drink and I'm pregnant, so it was nice to get to order something besides water. The staff was polite and welcoming. I like the gift shop at the front as well and the outside seating looked very peaceful. I don't live in ABQ, but I would come here again when I visit. Just FYI they do not have high chairs, so be prepared to hold your smaller kiddo/s if you happen to bring them with you. I brought my 1.5 year old daughter and she sat on our laps which wasn't a problem for us.

This was our first visit here. We enjoyed our selves. We had drinks and food. The wait staff was very frendly. It is a small venue and was very pleasant.
The food was tasty although portions were small (tapas size). We decided to order the paella, it is a 55min wait, but drinking with friends made the time go fast. The flavor was good, although slightly salty. We enjoyed the meat balls, the papas, the chicken skewers and the tapas platter.
They do have drinks other than wine (which we were told are all dry). They have brandy (aged and young) and whisky (no other alcohols).
For 2 people with drinks and food we spent about $130. We gave it 4 stars because we did enjoy it, but the limited spirit selection and slightly salty paella kept us out of the "love it" rating. We will be returning.

I came with my mother for the Spanish Tapas Brunch it was wonderful. We had a full wine tasting and some great tapas. There was live music outside and plenty of shade and tables to sit at. The person who did our tasting gave us the Vara story and explained so much about the different wines. This is a new place but with vision. The wines were all excellent. Highly recommend coming.