Inspired by the discovery that his great-great-great-grandfather, a Scottish miner named James Skinner, had owned and operated one of the first wineries in California 150 years earlier, Mike and Carey Skinner reestablished Skinner Vineyards & Winery in 2006. Today, they honor the family’s legacy with Rhône-inspired wines that express the distinct qualities of their meticulously farmed, high elevation Sierra Foothills vineyards.
With the guidance of Winemaker Chris Pittenger, Skinner has developed a wine program that pays homage to the family history and the wines of France’s Rhône Valley. “The region’s diverse landscape provides a unique opportunity to grow Rhône varieties at several different aspects, elevations, and soil types.” Chris says. “This makes for complex and exciting wines.” In fact, Wine Spectator highlighted Skinner as one of “four to watch” in the March 31, 2014 publication, and awarded the 2010 Estate Mourvèdre 94 points and the 1861 Red Blend 93 points.
The architecture of the winery and tasting room buildings is inspired by the original Skinner winery, and the solar-powered 12,000-square-foot winery is environmentally conscious. In the vineyard, sustainable practices are used whenever possible, from utilizing organic farming principles to clearing brush with resident goats. “We’re about leaving behind a legacy and we want to make sure it’s a good one,” Mike says. Carey agrees, and points out that they’re also committed to the community. “Winston Churchill said, ‘You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give.’ We really believe that,” Carey says.
The beautifully appointed tasting room looks out to 360 degree views of steep vineyard sites and the surrounding mountains. Guests are welcome to enjoy the view and a glass of wine on the spacious balcony and patio. On weekends, the Skinners often host food, wine, and music events; and cheese pairings are available for purchase in the tasting room.