Skinner Vineyards & Winery

Much like an unearthed vein of gold’s illusive promise once hidden deep within the rock, the contemporary story of Skinner Vineyards and Winery began with a chance encounter that would ultimately reveal six generations of family legacy built on the dreams of a Scottish immigrant and miner during the California Gold Rush with a passion for winemaking in the rich foothills of El Dorado County.
Kevin and Kathy Skinner were headed home to Santa Cruz from Lake Tahoe when Kathy spotted “Skinners, CA” near Rescue on an old, dog-eared map. adventurous by nature, they couldn’t help but take the short detour and have a look around.
After taking in the area and talking with locals, they discovered that a Scottish miner named James Skinner had done well enough during the gold rush to purchase land and plant the vast vineyards that became J. Skinner Winery and Distillery, one of the first wineries in the nation in 1861. Could it be possible that the roots of those vines were somehow connected to Kevin’s own family’s heritage?
Having lost both of his parents and unaware of his family’s history, Kevin’s father, Mike, soon learned that James Skinner was indeed his great, great, great grandfather. Joined by his wife, Carey, they traveled to the area within two weeks, contemplating an adventure that, if they had the courage, would alter the course of their entire family.
As if a moment in time had stood still allowing six generations to gather in one place, they purchased 25 acres a few miles from the original property with a commitment to honor what James had originally built, including the same varieties of vines that he planted a century and a half earlier. By 2007 they had acquired more vineyards and land upon a ridge top on the steep green hills around Fair Play and began building the now acclaimed Skinner Vineyards & Winery.
Bonded by their love of God and each other, the Skinner family believes that life is a great adventure to be shared with family and friends, and they take seriously their responsibility and commitment to contribute to the needs of others.
Their sense of purpose and the continuation of James Skinner’s legacy empowers them to have a positive impact on their community. It has been an honor to be part of — and bring attention to — this incredible region of the Sierra Foothills and all that it offers.