Audrey Wilkinson, Hunter Valley

Audrey Wilkinson is the one Hunter cellar door people drive up a hill for, and the view does the talking: a high vineyard at 750 De Beyers Road with a near-360 sweep of the Brokenback Range. It is one of the oldest vineyards in the region, dating to 1866, and it welcomes well-behaved leashed dogs on the lawns and terraces, which makes the best view in Pokolbin a shared one.

Where the dog goes. Dogs are welcome on the wide scenic lawns and the outdoor terrace around the cellar door, which is exactly where you want to be anyway. Indoor tasting space is the fallback in poor weather, so call ahead if it looks like rain and you need to bring the dog inside. A picnic on the lawn with a dog at your feet is the classic way to do this one.

The rules. Lead on, dog under control. One real watch-out: the property has resident peacocks that wander the grounds, so a dog with a strong chase instinct needs a firm hold and your attention. Bring your own water bowl; staff are friendly but do not rely on dog-specific facilities.

Getting there. A winding road climbs to the venue at the top of the hill. There is plenty of on-site parking, though the top area fills on weekends. Booking ahead for weekend tastings is wise.

When to go. Clear mornings give you the view at its best and the calmest crowd. Weekends get busy at the top car park, so arrive early or book a mid-week slot for a quieter visit with the dog.

Sources

• A pet-friendly guide to the Hunter Valley | Visit NSW · visitnsw.com
• The best spots for lunch in Pokolbin - Wanderlog · wanderlog.com

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