Capercaillie Wines

Capercaillie Wines is a boutique cellar door on Londons Road in Lovedale with a large lawn, a dam, and vineyard views. It is one of the more genuinely dog-welcoming spots in the area, with dogs allowed to accompany owners throughout the property.

The dog setup. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas and often inside the cellar door too. The standout feature is the dam, where dogs are reported to be free to have an off-leash run, which is unusual for a cellar door. There is a big lawn and outdoor seating for dogs to relax on while you taste, and water bowls are typically out. Keep control near the dam and other guests, and confirm the off-leash arrangement with staff on the day.

Good to know. This is a serious little producer, going since 1996 with a long list of wine show awards, spanning reds, whites, and cool-climate styles. The setting, with the dam and vineyard vistas, is a large part of the appeal.

Getting there and parking. Find it at 4 Londons Road, Lovedale, easy off the Hunter Expressway with on-site parking. No useful public transport, so drive and sort a designated driver.

Nearby with the dogs. Saddler's Creek Wines and Tintilla Estate over toward Pokolbin have large lawns and welcome dogs, so you can pair a Lovedale morning with a Pokolbin afternoon.

When to go. A warm day makes the dam a real draw for water-loving dogs, but bring a towel. Mornings are quieter for dogs wary of crowds.

Sources

• Pet Friendly Cellar Doors in Lovedale, Hunter Valley · lovedalehuntervalley.com.au
• A pet-friendly guide to the Hunter Valley | Visit NSW · visitnsw.com

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