Beyond Hollywood: A Life Rooted in the Vineyards
Max Thieriot may be best known to millions for his gripping performances in Bates Motel, SEAL Team, and Fire Country, but few realize that the actor-producer is also deeply invested in something far removed from red carpets and studio sets: winemaking.
Born and raised in Sonoma County, California — one of the world’s premier wine regions — Thieriot is more than just a celebrity vintner. He is a co-founder and hands-on partner of Senses Wines, a boutique wine label that has quickly become a respected name in the high-end wine world.
For Thieriot, winemaking isn’t a hobby or a branding gimmick. It’s a tribute to his roots, his family, and the community that shaped him.
The Origins of Senses Wines
Senses Wines was born from friendship. Max teamed up with two of his childhood best friends, Chris Strieter and Myles Lawrence-Briggs, to start the winery in their early twenties. What began as a small project driven by passion has since grown into a brand recognized by sommeliers, chefs, and collectors around the globe.
The trio launched their first vintage in 2011, sourcing grapes from renowned vineyards in the Sonoma Coast. Their vision was simple: to craft wines that reflect the terroir they love — complex, balanced, and expressive of their unique origin.
Today, Senses produces acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that are served at Michelin-starred restaurants and featured in top-tier wine publications.
A Deep Connection to the Land
While his fame might draw attention to the label, Thieriot’s involvement with Senses goes far beyond lending his name. He is actively engaged in vineyard decisions, wine blending, and even marketing. He frequently visits the vineyards during harvest season — a time he describes as “spiritual and grounding.”
“Being back in Sonoma, walking through the vines where I grew up — it’s real. It reminds me who I am, where I came from,” he shared in a 2023 interview with Wine Enthusiast.
His commitment to sustainability and local farming also plays a major role in how Senses operates. The team works with family-owned growers, practices organic farming methods, and prioritizes environmental stewardship.
Balancing Two Worlds
Balancing his demanding career in television and the wine business isn’t easy. Between filming Fire Country and managing production timelines at the winery, Thieriot has had to master the art of switching gears — from actor to entrepreneur.
Yet, he insists that the two roles inform each other. Acting and winemaking, in his view, are both about storytelling.
“A good wine, like a good character, tells a story. It evolves, it surprises you, it lingers. That’s what I love — that emotional arc, whether it’s in a glass or on the screen.”
A Family Affair
Max’s commitment to family runs through everything he does — including winemaking. He often brings his children to the vineyards, teaching them about the land and the labor that goes into creating something meaningful. It’s part of his broader mission to stay grounded and pass down the values of patience, craftsmanship, and respect for nature.
His wife, Alexis, while not involved in the business, has supported Max’s ventures from the beginning, helping him navigate the pressures of building two parallel careers. Together, they’ve built a life that celebrates both creativity and simplicity.
Recognition in the Wine World
Senses Wines has gained serious credibility in a notoriously competitive industry. The wines have received scores above 90 points from critics like Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate and Wine Spectator. The label’s Pinot Noir is often praised for its purity, depth, and elegance, while the Chardonnays are known for their balance and minerality.
More importantly, the winery has helped put the small Occidental region on the map, highlighting the power of community-driven, artisanal production.
The Future of Senses — and Max’s Dual Legacy
As Senses Wines continues to expand, Max Thieriot remains at the center of its vision. He has expressed interest in developing estate vineyards, increasing production modestly, and continuing to share the story of Sonoma through every bottle.
Meanwhile, as his Hollywood career reaches new heights with Fire Country and its upcoming spinoff Sheriff Country, Thieriot is living a rare kind of creative balance. He is both a builder of fictional worlds and a steward of real-world beauty.
“Hollywood gives me reach. The vineyard gives me roots,” he once said — a fitting summary for a man who has never forgotten where he came from, even as he helps shape what’s next.
