About Us
Welcome to our spirited world. Grounded in tradition, we thrive on trying new things, pushing boundaries, and discovering the extraordinary. We love to riff off our roots, exploring uncharted territory while paying homage to the rich history that defines us.
We’re the perfect blend of old and new, a harmonious fusion of heritage and innovation. Come with us on a journey where every sip is a celebration of our boundless spirit.
Martin Ulloa
Head Distiller
Martin Ulloa
Martin has lived in the Land of Enchantment for over 30 years and calls it home with his wife and 2 little boys. He has been brewing and distilling for almost 14 years and is passionate about creating exciting new flavors and beverages. When he is not distilling or blending spirits, he loves to ride bicycles or play sports with his family.
Djuna Benjamin
Production Manager
Djuna Benjamin
Born and raised in Albuquerque, Djuna spent years honing her skills in the world of fine dining and developed a deep appreciation for the art of gastronomy and well-crafted beverages. She joined VARA in 2019, eventually becoming Production Manager and Assistant Winemaker. When she’s not crafting fine wines and spirits, Djuna enjoys hiking, hanging out with her animals, and playing or seeing live music.
Ayisha Mares
Distiller Assistant
Ayisha Mares
Born and raised in Las Vegas, New Mexico, Ayisha has been at VARA for over 2 years. VARA was their first job in this industry. They started as a Cellar Worker and eventually moved over to work on the distillery side, which they love. They love it so much that they are currently studying Distilled Spirit Technology at CNM. When Ayisha is not crafting your favorite VARA spirits, they make 3D art on their computer and cuddle their dog, Sprout.
Aspire to inspire
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