Red Skye Winery
Mark and Betty Christopulos, operators of Red Skye, have been making wine for 10 years prior to the start up of the winery. Mark states “the winery started partly because of coaxing by friends and family”. Apart from full time employment and winemaking, the couple is raising three children.
The passion has got to be there, and this passion is strong…
His passion started with the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, and most of his earlier years focused on the varietal. He says that “his passion is now shifting towards a Livermore favorite, the Petite Sirah”.
Mark enjoys working with his hands and being rewarded for his hard work. That hard work shows in his wine, or as he states “art in a bottle”. The combination of science, art, and creativity drive him to produce extraordinary wines.
Most known for their Sunset Red, Red Skye blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. With the Merlot softening the palate, and the Cab Franc providing color and structure, it’s easy to taste why this wine won the Gold in Orange County.
One of my favorites is the unoaked Larson vineyard Chardonnay. Fruit forward with pear and pineapple, this wine is refreshing and soft. The oaked version of this wine shows vanilla, spice, and creaminess.
Other wines include a jammy, juicy 2004 Livermore Zinfandel; a 2004 Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon that highlights the terroir it came from; and a balanced 2004 Central Coast Syrah with a lot of good fruit, and a hint of tobacco. Current total production is 1000 cases per year.
A month or so ago, the Christopulos’ entertained wine enthusiasts with a fun Mediterranean food and wine pairing at their tasting room. The Red Skye Winery tasting room is located at Blacksmith square in downtown Livermore. Stop by during the weekend and sample some of Red Skye’s offerings. Red Skye wines are meant to be enjoyed with family and friends, or the next great sunset!
Hours are Friday 3-6, Saturday 2-6, and Sunday 2-5. 21 S. Livermore Avenue Livermore Ca 94550 www.redskyewine.com
510-795-7725.
