A Memorable Evening with Seis Soles Wine Co.

At the recent Napa “La Cosecha” hosted by the Mexican American Vintners Association (MAVA), I was fortunate to secure an incredible prize through their silent auction — a wine tasting for ten courtesy of Seis Soles Wine Co.

La Cosecha (literally meaning “the harvest”) not only celebrates the winemaking harvest season but also the contributions of Mexican-American vintners to the industry. MAVA, established in 2011, is dedicated to promoting the wines and contributions of Mexican-American vintners and supports its members by advocating for quality standards and providing scholarships for aspiring students in viticulture and enology. With 17 member wineries in California and growing, MAVA plays a crucial role in fostering growth and inclusivity within the industry.

Seis Soles Wine Co. and Chris Rivera

MAVA member Seis Soles Wine Co. is a beacon of innovation and cultural pride. The name “Seis Soles” — or “Six Suns” — is inspired by Aztec mythology, symbolizing a new era of cultural growth and integration, echoing owner Chris Rivera’s commitment to creating wines that are both expressive and accessible.

Chris’s journey into winemaking was unexpected but destined. His first encounter with wine during college ignited a curiosity that led him to a cellar job, where he discovered the intricate craft of winemaking. With guidance from mentor Joseph Smith, winemaker at Klinker Brick Winery, Chris honed his skills and developed a philosophy centered on inclusivity and collaboration.

Chris is not just a winemaker but a storyteller with an infectious personality. His charm and humor made the wine tasting a memorable experience, as he shared his passion for making wine approachable, especially for those in the Latino community who may be new to wine. Chris is a firm believer that the wine market for Latinos in America is just starting and making wine that is approachable, with familiar undertones, is just the way to ignite it.

The Wines and Their Stories

Chris’ wines hail from Lodi, CA, a region renowned for its rich viticultural heritage and diverse terroir. Known as the “Zinfandel Capital of the World,” Lodi offers a Mediterranean climate with warm days and cool nights, ideal for growing a variety of grape varietals. The sandy loam soils and unique microclimates contribute to the production of wines with distinct character and complexity.

Chris presented five wines, none of which were Zin(!), but each a unique story and flavor profile that didn’t break the bank — reflecting Chris’ dedication to making wine an enjoyable experience for all.

2021 Grenache and Mourvèdre Rosé ($19)

This Rosé captivates with its pale pink hue and aromatic bouquet of tropical fruit and strawberry. On the palate, it’s light and zippy, with a refreshing off-dry finish that complements its vibrant acidity. This wine pairs beautifully with spicy street tacos and savory pizzas, making it a versatile choice for various cuisines.

2022 ‘Colibri’ Lodi Carignane ($30)

The ‘Colibri’ Carignane is a standout with its light, smooth character, best enjoyed chilled. This wine, from the historic 127-year-old Rauser vineyard, offers delicate notes of underripe cherry and strawberry, finishing with a hint of vanilla oak. Here, Chris departed from his usual style and focused entirely on natural fermentation, allowing the vineyard to express itself. Chris’ artistic touch is also evident in the label design, adding a personal flair that we hope to see more of on future bottles.

2022 Red Blend ($23)

This Red Blend is crafted from Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, offering a harmonious balance of smooth texture and aromatic depth. The blend’s approachable nature makes it appealing to new wine lovers, while its structured complexity is appreciated by seasoned connoisseurs. It’s an ideal companion for hearty dishes.

2020 Tempranillo ($30)

This Tempranillo is a rich tapestry of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and earthy notes, with hints of leather and tobacco. Its robust structure is complemented by firm yet integrated tannins, leading to a long, smooth finish. The label, “Nirvana Reflections” by LR Kreations, beautifully represents the wine’s depth and sophistication. Another naturally fermented, single vineyard wine from Chris, this wine is a true expression of Potrero Vineyard — a Mexican-American owned vineyard.

2021 Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($35)

Drawing inspiration from Bordeaux, this Cabernet Sauvignon blends dark, mature fruit with the elegance of French oak. Its bold flavors and supple tannins create a wine that is both fruit-forward and balanced, offering a satisfying experience for red wine enthusiasts.

Visit Wine & Wax

Chris Rivera is not one to rest on his laurels. His current exploration involves venturing into California wine regions outside of Lodi to craft wines that showcase the diverse terroirs of the state. A particular interest of his is producing a cool-climate Pinot Noir, an endeavor that could highlight the elegance and complexity of this varietal for newbies to wine.

Winegrowers in areas like Sta. Rita Hills and Santa Maria Valley (famed for cool-climate pinots) may want to take note and snag a partnership with Chris before it’s too late.

And if you’re interested in giving Seis Soles a try in person, head over to Wine & Wax (146 S Glassell St, Orange, CA). Chris has recently set up a tasting room that’s open Wednesdays through Sundays (11 AM to 9 PM) that will be sure to please. Chances are you’ll find Chris pouring for you and sharing stories and laughter.

Chris and Seis Soles Wine Co. exemplify the transformative power of wine to bring people together, celebrate culture, and create new experiences — all at a price point which stays true to his desire to make wine approachable to all. Chris’ dedication to quality and accessibility makes him a standout figure in the industry, encouraging us all to embrace wine as a part of life’s journey.