The DWH Story
In the early 1970s, most of Oregon’s Willamette Valley was dedicated to growing grass seed and hops. Few people recognized the valley for its ideal climate and soil for growing wine grapes. Doyle Hinman was one. He began making small lots of wine in the early years of the 70’s, his first commercial wines were released in 1979 when Doyle founded Hinman Vineyards.
Our Timeline
1972
Doyle plants five acres of wine grapes on property near Eugene, Oregon. While tending the crops, he commutes to a wine curriculum at the University of California at Davis and receives his Masters of Science degree from the University of Oregon.
1977
In 1977 Doyle was offered an opportunity by Professor Helmut Becker of the famed Geisenheim Wine Institute to experience a work study program to learn more about this famous Rhine growing area, with focus on the riesling grape.
1979
Upon Doyle’s return to Oregon a passion was exposed to establish Hinman Vineyards and the start of a life-long passion with wine. In 1979 the first wines from Hinman Vineyards were released…white riesling, gewurztraminer, & pinot noir.
1982
In the 1980’s Hinman Vineyards was one of the largest wineries in Oregon, and, pridefully, used the Hinman Vineyard brand for marketing focus for fundraisers, music festivals, weddings, and private events.
1986
Doyle expands the winery’s capacity to over 100,000 gallons and doubles the size of the winery, including an iconic clock tower and large amphitheater.
1993
Doyle supports the Oregon wine industry’s political needs with extensive involvement that include:
• Appointment to the Founders Council of the Oregon Wine Board
• 12 years on the Oregon Wine Advisory Board
• President of the South Willamette Chapter of the Oregon Wine Board
• Special committee appointment to the Oregon Department of Agriculture
2006
The Hinman Family establishes the Five H wine brand with national and international distribution.
Today
Doyle remains a member of the Oregon Wine Board International Marketing Committee. The family continues to develop its own label Five H as well as developing its private label offerings for select clients throughout the US.
• 2021 – Doyle receives the Oregon Wine Industry Founders Award –
He continues to work in and for the industry and he has positively
affected the direction and accomplishments of Oregon wine.