desparada wines
Photo Credit Julia Perez
Meet Vailia From, proprietor and winemaker of Desparada Wines. Early in her life, Vailia was influenced by her grandmother who had nurtured her independence, artistic talents, self-confidence and sense of adventure. These characteristics are seen today in the wines that she produces. She has developed her own opinions about what a wine could be... Desparada style.
Vailia is a relatively new transplant and new winemaker to our area; however, she has been employed in the wine industry in various capacities in both the United States and Canada since the age of 18. Her wine education began while working with a sommelier who inspired her to expand her knowledge of fine wines from around the world. She studied for the Wine and Spirit Education Trust exams, pursuing her Masters of Wine at age 23. During her stay in Canada, Vailia learned about the sales and distribution of wines but soon realized that she was meant to produce her own wines.
​
In 2007, Vailia decided that the perfect area to begin her own journey as a winemaker was in Paso Robles. It was at Pine Hawk vineyard on the east side of Paso where Vailia sourced her fruit to make her first wines under the mentorship of owner, Kathy Gambino. Vailia also worked for a large local co-op facility, Paso Wine Services. It was here that Vailia had the opportunity to observe and learn about the many winemaking practices and styles of the other winemakers and where she began to define her own style. In 2009, Vailia made her own first four barrels of wine, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, Grenache, and Syrah.
Photo Credit Julia Perez
