Steels Gate Wines

Steels Gate Wines is a boutique cellar door and restaurant on the Melba Highway in Dixons Creek, well known among Yarra Valley regulars as one of the more genuinely dog-friendly wineries in the area. Dogs are welcome on the terrace and the grassy vine-side area, with staff described as attentive and happy to have them.

Dog access and setup. Dogs are welcome on the small outdoor balcony/terrace and the adjacent grassy area among the vines, where you can do a wine tasting or a full restaurant lunch with your dog beside you. Picnic blankets are set out in front of the vines for a more casual option. Book ahead and mention you are bringing a dog so staff can seat you on the terrace rather than indoors.

Known for. Hand-crafted boutique Yarra Valley wines, and lunches served on the deck with views over the vineyard. Regularly called out by reviewers as a standout for dog owners.

Getting there and parking. The cellar door is at 1974 Melba Highway, Dixons Creek, roughly 60 kilometres from central Melbourne. Free off-street parking on site makes unloading a dog straightforward. Generally open Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday 11am to 4pm, and Saturday 11am to 5pm, closed Tuesday and Wednesday, though hours can shift seasonally so check before driving out.

When to go. Weekend lunches on the deck get busy, so a weekday visit or an early booking secures the best terrace spot. Good for owners who want a proper lunch and a wine tasting without leaving the dog behind.

Sources

• Steels Gate Wines - Dixons Creek Restaurants - Tripadvisor · tripadvisor.com.au
• Pet Friendly - Yarra Valley Wineries · yarravalleywineries.com.au

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