A Symphony of Rhône Varietals in the Sierra Foothills
Nestled in the heart of Fiddletown, PleinAir Vineyards is a family-owned winery that crafts Rhône varietal wines with a passion that is palpable in every sip.
A Family Affair
PleinAir Vineyards is a testament to the power of family and the love of wine. Owners and proprietors Tom and Sarah Malone, along with their son and winemaker, Daniel Malone, have poured their hearts into creating a unique wine tasting experience. Their journey began with a 21.5-acre property in dire need of renovation, and through their combined efforts, they’ve transformed it into a picturesque vineyard and winery.
A Taste of France in California
The Malones have brought a slice of France to California. They’ve traveled and shopped throughout France, collecting architectural salvage and furnishings to create a quaint tasting venue that exudes a unique “casual rustic elegance.” Open Friday through Sunday, Plein Air offers exclusive handcrafted wines with a special emphasis on Rhône varietals. Visitors can enjoy wine and food pairings, charcuterie platters, and tours of the winery and vineyard.
The Vineyards
The estate vineyards are located in the Fiddletown AVA (American Viticultural Area), a region known for its old growth Zinfandel and other Rhône varietals. The property sits between 1850 and 1950 feet elevation on rolling slopes with well-drained sandy loams and decomposed granite. Currently, they have Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, and Viognier planted, all contributing to the character and elegance of their wines.
The Wines
Plein Air Vineyards takes pride in their small lot production wines that express the character and elegance of the land on which they are grown. Their commitment to artistry is celebrated in each vintage and in every bottle of wine they produce.
The Team
The Plein Air team is a blend of family and expertise. Daniel Malone, the youngest of the Malone children, is the winemaker, bringing years of experience in wine cellars and a strong commitment to the Plein Air brand. Tom Malone, the general manager, oversees all farming practices in the vineyards and assists in the winemaking processes. They also have the guidance of wine consultant Steve Leveque, who has an impressive resume with experience from HALL, Chalk Hill, Opus One, and Mondavi.
Final Thoughts
PleinAir Vineyards is more than just a winery; it’s a reflection of a family’s passion for wine, design, and the romance of vineyards. It’s a place where you can unwind, enjoy the beauty of the Sierra Foothills, and savor the taste of meticulously crafted Rhône varietals. So, the next time you’re in the Sierra Foothills, make sure to stop by Plein Air Vineyards for a taste of their “casual rustic elegance.”
Stay tuned for more winery reviews and remember to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Cheers!
Follow PleinAir Vineyards on Instagram @pleinairvineyards
Visit PleinAir Vineyards at 21090 Ostrom Road, Fiddletown, CA 95629
