Brand Story

Founded by winemaker Kira Malone, Pars Fortuna is a boutique wine brand dedicated to producing cool-climate wines from Santa Barbara County. Using a meticulous, minimally invasive approach, Kira handcrafts wines that are expressive, vibrant, and sophisticated, authentically capturing the true essence of Santa Barbara’s coastal regions.

Growing up in a fourth-generation farming family in California’s Central Valley, Kira always felt a deep connection to the land and the life that flourishes from it. But it wasn’t until a chance viticulture class at Cal Poly that her path took an unexpected turn, sparking a passion for winemaking and inspiring her to become one of the first graduates of the university’s Wine and Viticulture program. After graduation, Kira spent the next 15 years working behind the scenes with many renowned names on the Central Coast, including Halter Ranch in Paso Robles, Kenneth Volk in Santa Barbara County, and the nonprofit vineyard team that founded SIP Certified. Yet, the dream of creating something of her own always lingered in the back of her mind. Determined to craft her own wine before turning 40, Pars Fortuna is the realization of that vision—an embodiment of her dedication, courage, and belief in forging her own path.

The name “Pars Fortuna,” also known as the Part of Fortune, is an esoteric point in an astrological birth chart that reveals one’s hidden talents and the path to success through perseverance and fortitude. Calculated using the sun, moon, and rising signs, the point is represented by a circle with an “X” in the middle, and signifies the perfect alignment of Kira’s passion and skills in winemaking. The roadrunner, with its distinctive X-shaped footprints, symbolizes the spirit of Pars Fortuna. Known for being inquisitive, serious, playful, and fearless, the roadrunner, when seen crossing from left to right, is said to bring good luck. 

Pars Fortuna is Kira harnessing her fate, embracing the auspicious roadrunner's adventurous spirit to create wines that reflect her journey and the exquisite terroir of Santa Barbara’s cool growing regions. 

Read more about Kira’s journey!