Located in south central Washington state and only a few hours from Seattle or Portland, Yakima Valley is a vibrant wine growing region and home to over 100 wineries. About one-third of the state’s wine grapes are grown in the Yakima Valley AVA. As a member of the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association, I had the privilege to sample a Cabernet Frac wine from Dineen Vineyards, while participating in a webinar sponsored by Adam Stewart, Yakima Valley Tourism; Marissa Dineen, Dineen Vineyards; Patrick Rawn, Two Mountain Winery; and the Washington State Wine Commission.
The wine grapes grown in Yakama Valley benefit from an exceptional growing environment or “terroir,” which consists of soil composition and climate, giving the wines produced their unique characteristics. With soils ranging from volcanic to silt loam and gravel, and summer days’ diurnal shift from warm daytime temperatures to help ripen the grapes and develop their flavor and tannins, to cool evenings to help intensify their aromas and acidity.
Dineen Vineyards, founded by Pat and Lanie Dineen almost a quarter century ago, is located in the hilltops of Zillah, in the lower portion of the scenic Yakima Valley, with views of Mount Rainier and Mount Adams. As stewards of almost 100 acres of vineyards, the Dineen family’s viticulture is certified by Sustainable Washington and Lodi Rules, and harvests by hand to protect the grapes. I was excited to open and pour the 2021 Cabernet Franc sent to me by Dineen Vineyards, and this delightful wine did not disappoint.
Cabernet Franc is now one of the top four varietals planted in the state of Washington. Interesting note: according to DNA analysis, the Cabernet Franc grape was crossed with Sauvignon Blanc, which led to birth of the Cabernet Sauvignon varietal. 2021 was an exceptionally warm year for Yakima Valley, but with frequent irrigation and a cooler fall, this Cabernet Franc wine made with 100% of the varietal developed exceptional fruit concentration. Aged for 21 months in new and used oak, I immediately notice the bright boysenberry color and aromas of nectarines, dark berries, and a faint floral perfume. Fruity acidity, raspberry jam, and smooth tannins produce balanced mouthfeel, and the earthy notes pair well with the umami flavors in my pairing of sausage stuffed mushrooms.
Dineen Vineyards and Yakima Valley Wine Country should be on a must-visit list for every wine enthusiast. Dineen Vineyards tasting room, in the vineyard’s picturesque setting, is open daily from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Events include live music and winemaker dinners.
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