Dear Vincent Wines

Dear Vincent Wines is a boutique, minimal-intervention cellar door on St Judes Lane in Ballandean, and dogs are genuinely part of the picture here. The draw is a rustic, unhurried setup where you can settle in over the vineyard with a glass of natural wine while the dog stretches out in the shade beside you.

The dog setup. Dogs are welcome across the outdoor cellar-door area, with rustic seating in shaded spots looking out over the vines and the Ballandean ranges. There is no formal indoor access, so plan to be outside, which suits the long-lunch style of the place. Keep your dog on-lead through the grounds. Bring your own water bowl, as one is not guaranteed.

Good to know. The kitchen runs from an upscale food truck on-site Thursday to Sunday for lunch, so weekend visits pair tastings with a proper feed. Cellar door is open daily, roughly 11am to 4pm. There is on-site accommodation in newly built cabins if you want to make a night of it; ask directly about pet rules for the cabin interiors before booking.

Getting there. The address is 64 St Judes Lane, Ballandean. There is on-site parking, including a wheelchair-accessible bay, and the walk from the car to the seating is short.

Come Thursday to Sunday so the food truck is running, and aim for the middle of the day when the shaded seating is at its best.

Sources

• What's New in Granite Belt Wine Country 2024 · granitebeltwinecountry.com.au
• Visit - Ballandean Estate Wines · ballandeanestate.com
• Dear Vincent Wines · instagram.com

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.