Introducing Chris Wachira: A pioneering Kenyan Winemaker in California

Chris Wachira is the founder and CEO of Wachira Wines, the first Kenyan-American winery in the United States, which she established in 2017.

Originally from Kenya, Wachira moved to the U.S. in the 1990s to pursue a degree in healthcare. She later earned a Master’s in Public Policy and a doctorate. Despite her achievements in the corporate sector, Wachira was drawn to a new passion – winemaking. What began as a personal interest as a wine enthusiast evolved into a mission to create her own wines.

Starting Wachira Wines marked a deliberate yet unexpected shift in her career. Every decision and investment was fueled by her desire to fill a gap in the wine industry and highlight the importance of representation for Black people, especially women, in winemaking.

“My motivation was simple and personal,” Wachira explained. “I wanted to create a wine that would pair well with my mother’s dishes. I couldn’t find a wine that complemented the Kenyan cuisine she prepared.”

Wachira emphasized the underrepresentation of people of color in the wine industry, noting that they make up only 0.1 percent in the U.S. “Creating a space where we can showcase our talents and feel welcomed and included is central to who I am,” she added.

Image credit: Wachira Wines

Wachira personally handcrafts her wines, carefully selecting those that pair perfectly with her mother’s favorite dishes. For example, The Rhino, a Cabernet Sauvignon made from Napa, Lodi, and Paso Robles grapes, pairs beautifully with her mother’s lamb stew. She describes the bubbles as “the lion of the Wachira Safari,” which she says pairs perfectly with her mother’s vanilla lemon cake.

The wine selection features several collections. The Black Label Collection, also known as The Big Five, includes a Chardonnay (Buffalo), Cabernet Sauvignon (Rhino), Zinfandel (Elephant), Muscat (Leopard), and a Sparkling White (Lion). The Rose Gold Collection features a Rosé (Impala), while The Queens Collection includes natural wines like a Pinot Noir and a White Blend.

Running a Black-owned and woman-owned winery comes with challenges. Wachira faced obstacles such as limited financial resources, production facility constraints, and market skepticism. However, she views these challenges as learning experiences that have strengthened her resolve. Through resilience and innovation, Wachira Wines has reached significant milestones, secured key partnerships, and received positive feedback from early supporters.

Building on her success, Wachira has launched a wine incubator program to mentor others aspiring to enter the industry.

“For me to be in this position today, where another young woman or man can see themselves reflected in me as a Black immigrant woman, allows them to believe they can achieve their dreams,” Wachira said.