Skinner Vineyards & Winery

I'm not a wine connoisseur but I have traveled the world for work and thought this was a super cozy and relaxing spot to savor a glass and just enjoy life. Check it out!

Beautiful views here, I visited during the passport weekend 2022, even signed up for the wine club here, this is my second time coming here. service was great, the wines are good.

Excellent wine selection, tasteful tasting room and phenomenal views of the El Dorado / Fairplay area

Nice view but bad service. I purchased three tickets for my parents and I for 2023 El Dorado Passport today and Skinner Vineyard was our second stop. One of the employees was rude to me and my mother. His comment about the aperitifs they were offering was distasteful and unnecessary. We will be skipping this winery in the future.

Just spent the afternoon here and loved it! Beautiful views and friendly staff. It was relaxing and the wines were great. We aren’t serious wine drinkers so we don’t know our way around what is what and they took the time to explain what was what and helped guide us into several wines we loved. It was a great experience and even my boyfriend said it was his favorite Place and would definitely come back. 😀

Wow what a great experience & beautiful setting. Wines were expensive but excellent. Loves our server, Scott. He is very knowledgeable & has a great sense of humor. Sure wish they had a gift shop. Our group loves them & always buys stuff.

Great day, homemade paella for the wine club members.

Good selection of wines, nice people and one of the most beautiful tasting rooms I have been in. The outside area is spectacular with a view that is gorgeous. Love this place. I'll add photos next trip but you should see it for yourself.

I don't like writing one star reviews, which you can tell by my rating distribution. It does not give me any satisfaction, and I can almost always find something good to balance the bad. The only time to do it is when I feel strongly that something is wrong. Not even the panoramic view can save Skinner anymore, and that used to be my favorite part. The wine is not as good as it used to be, either. Customer service has gone downhill over the years and is now some of the worst I've ever experienced in my life. If you have mobility issues of any kind, please be warned before coming here. This was our last stop during this year's Passport weekend a few months ago. I know, why didn't I review before? I should have. I don't have an excuse other than being behind in my reviewing as a way of life on Yelp. I was also and continue to be embarrassed. Reading this might cause second hand embarrassment, fair warning. I have been having ongoing back (sciatica) issues which can make it painful to stand or walk for prolonged periods, and I was really going through it on the day I was last here. So, I decided to use the handrail and try to go down the stairs to the tasting area. I really should have used the ramp (I did on my way out, undaunted), but instead slowly made my way down the stairs trying not to wince. I probably just looked like another drunk fat girl having trouble with stairs. And in fact, I did indeed to one staff member in particular. She clearly knew nothing about wine, and one wonders why she even found herself working here. When pouring for me and my friends, she gave me a tiny pour in comparison. I know I probably looked down at it and frowned, being tired, in pain, and wondering uhhh why? Her response to this was to laugh loudly at me and tell me that I was clearly drunk walking down the stairs like that and didn't need anymore wine. She was watching me, she said. (Watching me struggle down the stairs. What a nice person.) She continued to laugh thinking she was so funny and superior. Yikes on bikes. Girl, when I tell you I was shocked I mean I was stunned silent. I didn't know what to say or do. Not only did I feel embarrassed for myself but I felt embarrassed for her. Why would you do that to someone? Someone you don't know? My friends were kind and distracting and made me feel better, and I didn't want to cause a scene so I didn't say much of anything else to her. I just wanted her to go away, to be frank. I know she couldn't know what I was feeling if I didn't say so but you know what? It does not matter. What she did was not only hideously rude and unprofessional. It. was. dangerous. You do not. discourage someone. from using mobility or accessibility aids. The way they were intended. Ever. For any reason. That is what they are there for. Drunk or not, which I was not. But even if I was. People like me who have only started recently to experience mobility issues are in an especially vulnerable adjustment period, and the last thing we need is to think about our pride and how someone might make fun of us if we decide to use a railing the way it was intended. And not just a random someone at that. A person this winery employs. This was an incredibly unsafe, terrible experience that I never wish to relive, and I hope nobody else, abled or otherwise, encounters this. Skinner, this was completely unacceptable. No, I don't know her name, but she was incredibly rude, loud, and the least knowledgeable person I've ever encountered at a winery.

Skinner has a beautiful mountain top tasting pavilion with nicely landscaped grounds and amazing views. We appreciated their shaded patio with misters as it was quite warm. Their wines were high quality and paired with a tasty pulled chicken sandwich.

Visited Skinner for the first time. Long time Amador and Eldorado counties winery visitors. This was on suggestion and reviews. Venue and View outstanding. Wines served were newer and not all that appealing to our palate. Not horrible though. Purchased a couple of bottles to support local. Would we go back? Yes so we could taste other vintage and varietals.

I'm still kicking myself that as often as I go wine tasting in this region I had yet to visit Skinner prior to Passport 2018. And what an amazing venue- the views here top even Holly's Hill! The property itself is multi-level, with a large balcony patio off the tasting room itself and a great outdoor space below complete with an outdoor bar, fireplace, fountains and flowers. The wines here are also pretty tasty. I'm not normally a rosé drinker, but the one I had here was absolutely fantastic and I had to purchase some. I also ended up buying a case of the Smithereen Red blend that was just too good of a deal to pass up for something I could drink ever day. So go here for the killer views but stay and enjoy the delicious wine. I will definitely be back.

Absolutely beautiful grounds! From the spectacular views, to the trickling water feature, the cool outdoor seating and friendly staff, I was happy that my Brother and Sister In-law suggested we stop and enjoy one of their favorite wineries. What a lovely place this would be for an outdoor wedding. The sommelier was very knowledgeable and shared the story of the Skinner family history as well as what selection she enjoyed. What a wonderful winery. Thank you for sharing your wine and time with us on such a beautiful sunny day.

Fairplay,CA has some really nice wineries and some dogs. Skinner has really nice wines served in a beautiful tasting room. Lots of varietals. You should find something for your palate. Beautiful views of the area. Nice terrace downstairs for relaxing.

Perfect patio and view for a day of tasting. All their wines are wonderful, we especially love the Grenache and Mourvèdre. Wine club events are always great. Staff friendly and helpful. We'd suggest you make a reservation for tasting these days rather than just showing up. Don't miss it!

Gorgeous, dog friendly, stunning views, and great wine. What more can you want. You want to bring your own snacks or a picnic? They're cool with that! Want to sit for hours watching the huge blue sky roll by with your 125lb dog at your side? They're cool with THAT. The wines are delicious and they were super accommodating about my preference for white wines in the afternoon, their service was attentive and informative, and the location can't be beat. We stayed at the walking-distance 7-Up Guest Ranch, and can't wait to go back to both!

We were told about this Winery while tasting at another winery. We were greeted right away and given wine glasses. We were were asked if we had been there before which we had not. We were given a list of wine to choose from. As we went through the wines we were also told about the history of the winery and how some wines were given named. We had brought a picnic and forgot forks. The staff was kind enough to look and see if they had some. They did and were kind enough to give us some forks. They also sell wines by the glass or by bottle. Nice way to enjoy a picnic. The have a nice deck to sit and look over the vineyards. The is an area below for more seating and an outdoor fireplace. You also get to keep the nice wine glasses. We will definitely return for another tasting.

Beautiful view (hence the second star), TERRIBLE service. The two ladies working acted like it was a privilege for them to give us any of their time. We sat there for 20 minutes before we finally asked for a menu. They had most tables empty so it wasn't like they were busy. The wine was good, not good enough to buy though especially with how poorly the staff behaved. Oh, and Def Leopard and AC/DC are awesome bands but totally not appropriate to be played at a winery...seriously, I'd be humiliated if I were the owners. I'll take my money elsewhere thanks! Bottom line, we won't be back. Element 79 and Sentivo down the road are both better options.

Beautiful fairplay winery and tasting room. Do the full tasting experience gazing out over the hills on the outside deck and picnic afterwards on the downstairs patio. The tasting room inside is small but we didn't stay inside. Wines are good.

Must visit again . Wine is super good. . Love their rose strawberry and cherry notes . Love their smitterin which has apricots notes in the middle . Generous portion of food pairing - pasta and meatball . Great view like yasss . Great patio for brunch. They have upstairs which needs reservation . Petite syrah with chocolate so good. Need a revisit for this pairing.

Beautiful environment! They have sports playing at all times inside, misters outside, perfect ambiance and a wonderful staff. I love coming here with my friends and just spending an afternoon cooling off in the summer and enjoying their amazing selection of wine. Jenn and Scott are phenomenal!

We had a wonderful time at this winery. First stop of the day. The service was fantastic and views on the outside patio where we did our tasting were beautiful. We really loved the wines and even joined the club. Looking forward to our next trip!

I love this winery. The scenic views are awesome. Great outdoor seating. Fantastic wine!This the best and beautiful wine yard in this area . I would highly recommend this to all to please when you come to Placerville must visit this exotic place.

UPDATE: The owner, Carey Skinner, reached out to me this morning. She apologized for her employee's behavior and actually thanked me for providing a teaching moment. She offered me the opportunity to come up again and have a tour with the winemaker but because I'm moving I'm unable to take advantage of that. She then offered to send me a bottle of wine. What is most important to me is that she say the review and immediately called and apologized and took ownership. If I was not moving I would take the opportunity to try Skinner again. I made a reservation for Skinner Vineyards online about 3 days before we were to visit. As we drove up we were so excited because it was so beautiful, but the view is where the goodness stops. We walked up and I should have known what we are in for? "You don't have a reservation!" I was shocked and was said, "uh yes, we do." She (I don't remember her name) didn't even ask my name just started in about how we didn't and it wasn't on her calendar and then it was "oh you must be Bree. It just showed up.". Um, okay? She was snappy with the guy Scott that walked up and then started walking us to our table. The table was in the shade and so we asked if we could move to a table in the sun on the grass. SHE ROLLED HER EYES. Then Scott says, 'Well I just won't give you the same level of service over there. We just sit families there." Excuse me??? Where I sit depends on my level of service? Yikes. It just got worse from there. He would walk over carafes of wine for each one we were tasting, tell it what wine it was and leave. No explanation of the wine. We had to pour it ourselves. Finally, it was time to leave. I couldn't wait. I had no plans of buying anything because of the treatment we have been given but one friend decided to. But at this point, they were done talking with us. So I had to actually walk up to her and say, "We would like to purchase a bottle" and it was another dirty look for interrupting her chatting with the coworkers. Scott came over and got the wine order. There were 4 of us and you pay for tasting so the one friend got hers waived. My aunt then handed Scott $40 (in case you aren't keeping track we owed $30). Scott looks at her dead on and says "You don't want change do you?" Are you KIDDING ME? You treated us like dirt, you were annoyed that we wanted to sit in the sun, you didn't bother to barely speak to us and YOU WANT A TIP. Uh, no. I have never in my life had such a bad experience at a winery and we visited 3 others that day that were AMAZING (hit Shadow Ranch and Medieros Winery - they were awesome). In this time I'm all for supporting small, local businesses. I will go out of my way to do so. That being said, I don't think I'm asking too much for BASIC serving courtesy.

Skinner Vineyards is a must if you find yourself in the area! Or even if you don't - make a point to come here at least once :) This was our first stop while visiting Fair Play and it was also our last because we found ourself here twice in one day, it's that good! (perks of having 2 tasting menus). The staff are so warm and welcoming and know so much about the history of the family and property. Not to mention the wines are absolutely incredible, you will not leave here without buying multiple bottles to take home! The winery grounds are so beautiful in addition to the breathtaking views. So much to see & enjoy and being able to play corn hole on the lower patio was a nice surprise. Overall, we had such a nice visit here and are eager to visit again soon!

Skinner Rhone style wines are delicious and elegant ! I wish to thank Adrienne for her excellent customer service and responsiveness. Skinner winery is our favorite in El Dorado County Donna J.

The wines are tasty and the view from the back deck is stunning! Sit outside for your tasting & they'll bring the tastes to you. The staff took a little time to "warm up", as the person helping me wasn't the friendliest at first, but she came around.

Amazing view and great customer service. Evan did a great job explaining the history and the vision of this winery. Toasty fireplace was blazing on a blustery rainy day, and the views were superb.

My husband recently took a drive to this winery with his BMW club that I was unable to partake in . We decided to drive up one Sunday afternoon because he convinced me it was a beautiful winery in a beautiful location And as you can see from my photos it is a truly A beautiful winery. I don't drink alcohol so I can't tell you how the wine tastes but I can tell you it's a beautiful drive-in a great setting. Take your picnic basket!They have a deck that wraps around their tasting Room with beautiful views all the way around it's definitely worth a trip to visit.

Thank you Diana for the fabulous wine tasting today for my friends and me. The views were fabulous, as was the service. I'm always a tad skeptical when the view is so amazing, perhaps the wines won't be...not in this case. Excellent petite syrah and Syrah, and fun red blends as well. Will certainly return here.

I have thought about if I should post this or not. I appreciate that they called to apologize but our visit has a wine club member, none of this should have happened. I spent the rest of the day apologizing to our group for this winery rudeness after I spoke so highly of them. First, has a wine club members, we had made reservations to wine taste with a group of friends on the higher level deck, only to arrive and find no accommodations available to us. The only thing available was in full sun, and even then there were no tables for six. Why would we want to make reservations and end up in full sun on a hot day at separate tables? We stood there for over 20 minutes waiting for directions from the winery staff. Second, we asked for, and were granted, the opportunity to sit on the lower patio for tasting, so we could hopefully enjoy some wine in the shade; however someone showing up every 10 to 20 minutes to pour a dabble into our glasses and immediately leave without even a reluctant effort at answering our questions hardly met our expectations of being wine club members. Third, we were told that we were not allowed to picnic while tasting, the inexplicable reason being that we were tasting wine. What? No food with wine? Made no sense to us. At least two of the wine clubs we belong to actually provide food paired with the wine we are tasting. Finally, when we left we were chased down and asked if we had settled our account. We never even finished our flight - due to the lack of attention. What settlement? As wine members were told we could have guests for no charge. What is sad, the group of 6 would have bought wine if the staff could have done their job and treated us has not only customers but has wine club members. Sad, we cancelled out membership at this winery. We can go to other wineries that welcome us, happy to discuss their wines, answer questions and make us feel welcome.

This review is for their Gold wine club membership. If you like Skinner wine I would recommend one of the smaller wine club options and not the Gold. Skinner makes promises that they just cannot deliver and as a wine club member, you will come last to walk-ins even with a private tasting reserved a month in advance. Skinner Vineyards left our group disappointed on our last visit. Two of my friends are Gold wine club members and decided to take us for one of their private tastings that come with their membership. I was with them when they first decided to become wine club members and a private tasting in the barrel room was one of the selling points. When the reservations were made, we were told that they no longer did the barrel room tastings but they would reserve us a table by the waterfall and have someone serve us outside on their members only patio. We thought that was great since it was a nice day and Skinner has a beautiful view. When we arrived, to the tasting room, they gave us our glasses to carry downstairs and told us to pull together any two tables we wanted.... There was a party seated downstairs by the waterfall already so we took two other tables, pulled them together ourselves and sat down. We received three tastes of wine when we were down on the patio and then our wine pourer just never came back. A member from our group walked back up the stairs to see what was going on and they said they thought someone else was helping us... I don't know who they thought was helping us because all three of the wine pourers were standing behind the bar together... In the end we decided to all walk upstairs and finish our tasting in the tasting room because we knew that downstairs was just not going to happen... We were ignored and our glasses sat empty for most of our visit. I would not recommend the Skinner wine club membership unless the only thing you want is a discount on Skinner wine. Skinner did not deliver on the perks that come with their wine club and now my two friends are reconsidering their Gold club memberships.

The views here are lovely! Our group sat on the upper deck, and had sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. But I was stunned by how miserly the pours were here. I've done a lot of wine tasting, and this is amongst the stingiest pours I've seen. There was barely enough in the glass for a real taste. What's worse, they charge $10 or $15 for a tasting, where most of their competitors in the area are offering their tastings for free.

Love love love this place! Wine was great. I really enjoyed honestly all their wines. It was hard to choose which one to buy. We ended up going with their rose wine because it was something the whole group enjoyed. We all also really loved the zin. I'm usually not a huge fan of them but this was so rich in flavor it was hard not to want to taste it all the time. The views are spectacular. The staff was great. And we were even able to sit outside on the balcony to have our tasting. The guy helping us was not intrusive, he answered every question we had and let us take our time with the tasting. As a local this is on the pit stop list of wineries to stop and just enjoy. I will be coming back to enjoy the second tasting! Thank you skinner!! You've gained another regular.

The view here is amazing, and the staff is cool too. Not the best wine I have ever tasted, but the rose is passable for $22.

Came here with my family on a cold and slightly wet day in February. We were expecting better weather. It wasn't too busy but the inside wine bar was filled with people staying in from the cold because the 20+ propane heaters outside were inoperable. The staff wasn't competent enough to get them working nor were they really willing to help. It was weird. After searching for a place to settle for a few hours, we were denied the ability to sit while we order wine and eat bread at a table that wasn't being used downstairs. Apparently it was for "members only" and even though we expressed interest in all of us becoming members when we first came in we were still denied the ability to sit down. An insecure red faced employee had made an accusation about one of our family members moving chairs downstairs that led to her announcing sexist remarks to everyone in the wine bar making us all look as bad as her. An argument was started between her and a family member of ours defending the comfort of our family. She quickly became hysterical behind the bar. We quickly decided to leave even before the being asked once the red faced women became hysterical. All in all, we had heard some good things about the winery and were very excited to try the Skinner wines and all sign up as members before this event but our time visiting the winery definitely could have had better service or been setup better. Even if the wine's bad, its probably better than the service we had that day.

Visited this weekend, give this place a 5 star due to the view and the friendly staff. All tasting was done outdoor and lot of social distancing. The wine was delicious!!! Will definitely come back!!

Skinner has a beautiful view and a wonderful patio from which to enjoy it. It used to be one of our favorite places to taste wines. We just went there again, though, last week and were disappointed with their new and outrageously high tasting fees. We had two choices: a) $10 for three whites and three reds; or b) $15 for six reserve wines. On the reserve side, all but one of the bottles cost $60 (the other was $45). Yes, if you purchase a bottle of wine, you get one tasting fee waived, but that wasn't a great consolation given the prices. These fees and prices are WAY too high for this area. Most wineries in the area don't have a tasting fee and their wines are more reasonably priced, without an appreciable reduction in quality. Probably won't be returning soon, unfortunately.

Amazing wine, breathtaking scenery, and phenomenal service !!!... Diana is so warm and welcoming... we couldn't help but extend our visit and wine tasting experience..... already looking forward to our next visit. Donna J.

We visited about a dozen wineries on our trip to the Foothills area and Skinner was the absolute best in our opinion. It's rare that we enjoy every single wine we taste at a winery but it happened here.

I'm from Napa Valley and Skinner can compare to ANY winery here!!! Such elegant wines!!! "Elegant" is the perfect word to describe their wines!! Loved them all!! The view was unbelievable...yes, I'm comparing this to Napa Valley! Incredible!! We had some snacks and they let us eat them on their gorgeous deck overlooking the most beautiful view!!! Thank you, Stephanie...sooo impressed with your winery!!!

The view is the best reason to visit this place. Sparkling wine selection is outstanding, whites and reds pretty amazing, cheeses from france and other areas, nice outdoor fireplace and water fountain, comfy chairs and in general just awesome!! : )

We visited three wineries today. Terra d'Oro Winery was first on the list, followed by Renwood. While at Renwood, folks recommended we head up to Skinner and we are so glad we did! It was only about 15 minutes away and a beautiful drive in the country. Our server Stephanie was wonderful and we really enjoyed all of the wines. The $10 tasting fee is waived with a bottle purchase and you get a free glass too. The setting on top of the hill is spectacular and we would love to return with a picnic. The Six Horse zin for $36 was our favorite. Highly recommend this place!

Great Rhone varietals. Friendly and knowledgable staff. Stunning views. Plus, they are family owned and reasonably priced.

If you are a Grenache or a Mourvedre fan you have to try this winery. I think the only drawback is they can't make enough of it, now that they have received a number of accolades. It pays to be a member here in the Club, as you get some special privileges. Some have found this unacceptable. Hey policy is policy. The proprietors set the standards for their property. One of the coolest parts of this vineyard and winery is how beautiful for the eyes it truly is. Amazing investments that have clearly paid off.

Skinner!this is a must stop. Excellent service...thank you Ginger! Views are incredible. Tasting room gorgeous and the wines are excellent. The best in the area. Quality snacks available.

I visited Skinner Vineyards during Passport Weekend 2016 and nothing about it really stands out to me. The views were spectacular, yes - but there were other wineries that had great views as well. The difference with those other wineries is that their staff was just friendlier and seemed like they wanted to be there. I didn't feel welcome at Skinner during our visit and although the wine was good, it wasn't the best we had over the course of the weekend. I believe a friend of mine purchased a bottle, but I couldn't get past the poor customer service. Overall, I don't think they will make our list of must stops next year.

We stopped by here on a Sunday afternoon. What an amazing winery! Great tasting flights, beautiful venue, live music and delicious appetizers at a great price. However, it's the workers who shine with their friendliness and knowledge. A big shout out to Kristi and Jessica for their overall awesomeness!!!

We had such a lovely time at Skinner. Weather was perfect, grounds are immaculate, and wonderful service. Jessica was attentive, friendly, and accommodating to our outdoor service. We will definitely be back with friends, requesting Jessica.

Diana is just absolutely wonderful! Helpful with wine and is super knowledgeable! Love this place! Wine is great!

Wine with a view? Not sure it gets any better. The views here are spectacular. Skinner is a beautiful place to spend a relaxing weekend sipping a killer Syrah. The employees are very knowledgeable and friendly. One of the best wineries I have been to and having lived in Sonoma County for 3 years, I am pretty spoiled. I passionately recommend it.

A group of 7 of us were looking for the perfect way to spend an hour wine tasting in the Somerset/Shenandoah Valley winery area and we found it at Skinner Vineyards. Being from the Bay area, we arrived there on the recommendation of manager of another winery. The weather was crisp but not windy so we sat out on the upper patio, turned on the gas heaters and enjoyed Skinner's wine pourer Rolly's history of the area and local stories. As noted, the views of the valley are spectacular and a huge bonus - but come for the wines. The wine was wonderful and our group of experienced wine makers, pourers at other wineries and consumers (me) all purchased wine to take back with us so we can recall our fabulous Saturday afternoon with friends on the patio deck of Skinner Vineyards.

First discovered Skinner Vineyards at the Christian Brothers (Sacramento) wine/beer event. Actually made it to the vineyard for the first time today and everything was excellent. The wines were especially enjoyable and the view and service were lovely. Diana was especially knowledgeable. I'm planning a return trip soon.

I must start off with the view ... Truly Amazingly! Best view in the area. With that said I couldn't give it a five star on the view alone. Two things that were disappointing first $10 tasting fee, too steep even though you get to keep the glass and the $10 is applied to the purchase of a bottle. The second is no outside food. I love to bring my own food and enjoy their wines with their views, but no, no outside food. That should be changed. The wines? FANTASTIC! Enjoyed them all. Good for you Skinner, great wines. Change the other two things I'd come back more often.

A beautiful winery and one of my new favorite spots in the el dorado/ amador wine country. Its a great place to bring a picnic and they have great wines. They also sell food, cheese, meats, spreads, and crackers. We bought the cheddar and pate and it was delicious. The wines are great the $15 tasting is definitely worth the price. The cuvee and petit sirah are wonderful.

Five stars for the views, the hilltop patio, and the overall experience. Very nice higher-end wines. Lots of Rhones. If I had to pick one place in the area to sit and spend an hour and enjoy a bottle - this would be it. On a nice day you cannot find a more pleasant environment to sip Fair Play wines!

We are consistently impressed by the quality of wine and amazing customer service Skinner delivers. We had the pleasure of talking with Stephanie while tasting today and her knowledge and passion for the wine and region is inspiring. Thanks for the fabulous experience Skinner! Looking forward to joining you again soon

Great winery. Nice service. But what we really love is their view! Great picnic spot!