Bellwether Wines

Bellwether Wines pours from a restored 1868 stone shearing shed on the old Glen Roy property, just off the Riddoch Highway in Coonawarra. It is a working farm as much as a cellar door, and it appears on the Coonawarra Vignerons' dog-friendly list, which is rarer in this region than it should be.

The dog setup

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the grounds and outdoor areas, on-lead at all times. The property runs sheep, chickens, cattle and Highland cows, plus a resident guardian dog, so a short lead and good manners around stock are non-negotiable.

Tastings happen on the shed grounds rather than across a polished counter, so your dog can settle at your feet outside. Bring your own water bowl to be safe, and confirm with staff on arrival if you want your dog inside the shed itself.

The vibe

This is a slow, agricultural stop: small-batch, low-intervention wines, produce platters, and campfires under big red gums. Bellwether also runs a boutique campground and glamping tents on the property, and pets are welcome in the camping grounds, though you should confirm the tent policy and any fee when booking rather than assuming.

Pepsi: go on a sunny afternoon, order the platter, and let the dog sprawl on the grass while you work through the reds. The Highland cows are a bonus.

Getting there and parking

The shed sits off the Riddoch Highway at Glenroy, an easy run from Penola or Naracoorte, with plenty of off-street parking on the property. Open days are limited and generally run midday to 4pm, and the cellar door closes for August each year, so check ahead before you drive out.

Pair it with

Coonawarra is dense with cellar doors: Redman Wines, Zema Estate and Patrick of Coonawarra are all close by on the same strip. The sealed Coonawarra Wineries Walking Trail links several of them for an easy leashed stroll between tastings.

More pours are on the South Australia wineries guide and the Coonawarra destination page.