Ben Ean

Ben Ean on McDonalds Road is a big, historic Pokolbin estate, the old Lindeman's site, reworked into a relaxed cellar door with expansive grounds, a patisserie and deli and a restaurant. It is set up to welcome dogs across its outdoor terraces and open lawns, which makes it an easy spot to combine a tasting, a coffee and a stretch of the legs.

Where the dog goes. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you in the cellar door area, and on the outdoor terraces of the patisserie and deli and the restaurant. The open lawns and grounds are good for an on-lead walk between tastings, so the dog gets a moving-around part to the visit, not just sitting still.

The rules. Lead on at all times. Water bowls are often out, but bring your own for convenience. Keep the dog settled around the food terraces.

What is there. A broad, good-quality tasting range, plus the patisserie and deli for a quick bite and a restaurant for a full meal. The heritage site and roomy grounds give it a more open feel than the smaller boutique doors.

Getting there. On McDonalds Road, the main Pokolbin tourist route, with ample on-site parking including flat gravel near the main buildings.

When to go. As a busy McDonalds Road landmark it fills on weekends, so come earlier in the day for calmer terraces and lawns with the dog.

Sources

• Dog-Friendly Cellar Doors - Hunter Valley | HUNTERhunter · hunterhunter.com.au
• Pet Friendly Cellar Doors - Hunter Valley Wine Country · winecountry.com.au

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