Walking backwards upside down... in plum pumps, chocolate chalk tights, cassis casket, licking the hand that feeds you, electric exhale, Idris Elba: write me a song.

Truly blended in the cellar... versus the destination being determined in the vineyard as so many of the other wines are. Each barrel is tasted, graded, tasted again... and then again... Knowing when to stand back, accompany and complement, this blend feels sultry, comfortable, and balanced...  Blend: 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Petit Verdot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petite Sirah.

Vailia From might just be the best penname of all time. It also happens to be the actual real-life name of proprietress and winemaker of Desparada wines, who was named after her grandmother. Vailia’s grandma had pluck, and taught her the importance of “packing light, keeping your friends close, and following your heart.” Vailia has pluck, too. The Desparada brand is named after the lawless, Wild West figure of the desperado, but in the feminine. Vailia is a bit of an outlaw herself, willing to take winemaking risks just to try out different techniques herself, with her own hands. She sources fruit from over 17 of the Central Coast’s most important vineyards. She considers winemaking one part magic, one part instinct, and one part site.