Perched at elevation in The Hills of the Lower Yakima Valley, Dineen Vineyards is a family-owned and operated estate where thoughtful farming, deep roots, and a strong sense of stewardship shape everything that happens in the vineyard. Located in the Rattlesnake Hills (“The Hills”) sub-AVA of the Yakima Valley just north of Zillah, the nearly 100-acre estate, comprised of 3 closely located sites, sits atop a distinctive hilltop with south-facing exposure. Its complex soils, part of the Ellensburg formation, are comprised of silt loam, ancient river rock, and caliche. The dirt, combined with sweeping views of Mount Adams and Mount Rainier, create an exceptional setting for growing premium wine grapes.

Dineen Vineyards began in 2001, when founders Pat and Lanie Dineen transformed a former apple orchard into what is now Catherine’s Vineyard, named for Pat’s mother. A year later, they expanded with an additional 80-acre site that today includes the tasting room and vineyard blocks named for family members across three generations. This family-first philosophy is woven throughout the operation, from long-term vineyard decisions to daily hands-on work in the field.

Sustainability is not an add-on at Dineen Vineyards—it is a guiding principle and core value. The estate is Certified Sustainable under both the Lodi Rules and Sustainable WA, rigorous third-party–audited programs built on a “triple bottom line” of environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability. Vineyard practices include deficit irrigation, innovative integrated pest management, precise canopy management, nurturing the soils with ground cover and compost, and minimal use of non-organic inputs - all designed to conserve soil and water resources while producing low yields with exceptional flavor concentration.

The vineyards are planted primarily to Bordeaux and Rhône varieties, with the four largest plantings being Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Merlot. All blocks are own-rooted, allowing for a pure expression of site, elevation, and aspect, while the hilltop location provides extended hang time for optimal flavor development. Most vineyard work is done by hand, ensuring careful attention from planting through harvest.

At Dineen Vineyards, quality truly begins in the ground. By stewarding their land with intention and respect, the Dineen family is not only growing exceptional wine grapes today, but also protecting this special place for generations to come.