You know that look of love and longing your dog gives you when you dare leave home without it? Instead of enduring it yet again, head to Anderson Valley, one of the world’s dog-friendliest wine regions, and bring Fido along for the ride.
With close to a dozen dog-welcoming wineries dotting the sides of Anderson Valley’s idyllic Highway 128 and near-countless scenic spots for picnics and play along the way, here are 10 reasons this quaint, 15-mile stretch of Mendocino County wine country is a perfect pet-friendly escape.
1. Treats & Doggie Meet-and-Greets at Brashley Vineyards
If you’ve yet to try Brashley Vineyards’ White Pinot Noir or Rosé of Pinot Noir, make your way to this family-owned winery and tasting room in Philo. In addition to exceptional wines, you might spot Mocha, Brashley’s resident mini-labradoodle. They also have treats and water readily available for your four-legged friends.
2. Fenced-In Play at Witching Stick Wines
Get a friendly welcome from Buster, an 8-year-old McNab Shepherd, at the Philo tasting room of Witching Stick Wines while you indulge in some of the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Anderson Valley has to offer. There’s even a fenced-in play area for your pooch so you can wear out your pup while you sip wine in peace and enjoy stories with winemaker Van Williamson. McNabs have a long history in Anderson Valley and are often the winners at the annual fair Sunday sheep dog trials.
3. Four-Legged Fun at Foursight Wines
Stop by Foursight Wines in Boonville and let Fido play with Sasha, a lab-pointer mix, and Spot, a McNab Shepherd, while you sip on premium Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc. With water and treats on hand and plenty of open space for the pups to explore, it’s a can’t-miss stop on any Anderson Valley wine tour.
4. Fine Wines & Tiny Tail Wags at Bee Hunter Wines
There are two things you’ll find in spades during a stop at Bee Hunter Wines: world-class Pinot Noir, Syrah and Riesling and plenty of pups to keep your canine companion company. Pop in to meet Leo, Charlie, Molly Malone and the rest of the four-legged crew at Bee Hunter’s Boonville tasting room, where they’re also known to also breed puppies – and you might just leave with a new furry friend of your own!
5. Gated “Bark Park” at Maggy Hawk Wines
This Maggy Hawk estate vineyard tucked away in Anderson Valley’s remote “Deep End” has more than just exquisite Pinot Noir and Chardonnay – it also has a gated dog park directly next to its tasting room, so you can enjoy fine wine while your pup wears out.
6. Off-Leash Excursions at Lula Cellars
Another worthy stop in Anderson Valley’s “Deep End,” Lula Cellars’ 22-acre home in Philo promises plenty of fun for Fido. Long-term guests will remember Honey, its former resident Yellow Lab/Rhodesian Ridgeback mix who helped to establish Lula’s pet-friendly reputation known for water, dog treats and off-leash hikes through the surrounding hilltop vineyard. Enjoy a glass of Rosé or Gewürztraminer while your pup lets loose at this boutique winery.
7. Water Play for Pups at Greenwood Ridge Vineyards
Nothing invigorates a pup quite like a quick dip in cold water, and the pond at Philo’s Greenwood Ridge Vineyards is the perfect place to cool off. Have your pup play with JJ, Greenwood’s 5-year-old Smooth Fox Terrier, while you kick back with a glass of late-harvest Riesling or Pinot Noir.
8. Toys, Bandanas & “Bark-Uterie” at Goldeneye Winery
Known far and wide for its Gewürztraminer, Brut Rosé and other acclaimed wines, Goldeneye Winery in Philo has a dog-friendly patio and bandanas and other goodies available for purchase. They even have a signature “Bark-Uterie” plate for pups to enjoy on the scenic, Fido-friendly patio.
9. Gewürztraminer & Warm Greetings at Toulouse Vineyards & Winery
Situated just 12 miles from the Pacific Ocean, Toulouse Vineyards is another delightfully dog-friendly stop on an Anderson Valley wine tour. Home to two resident pups – Daisy May, a Coton de Tulear, and Elle May, a Golden Retriever who loves to lead vineyard tours, this charming Philo vineyard and winery promises world-class wines (try the Gewürztraminer or Rosé of Pinot Noir!), water for thirsty pups and a warm welcome for all visitors. This sweet puppy is a regular visitor to Toulouse and the local hospital to bring cheer to kids who are sick- so sweet!
10. Memory-Making in Mendocino County
While plenty of Anderson Valley wineries accommodate dog lovers and their furry friends, Mendocino County, itself, is also among Northern California’s most dog-friendly destinations. From refreshing river dips to unforgettable hikes through the Redwoods, there’s perhaps no better place for four-legged exploration.
Whether you genuinely prefer to travel with your canine companions or just can’t bear to leave them behind, embark on a journey to Anderson Valley. Roll down the window, embrace the open road and allow the wineries of Anderson Valley to roll out the red carpet for you and your pup.