Peterson House - Hunter Valley Winery

Peterson House sits right at the Pokolbin gateway on the corner of Broke Road and Wine Country Drive, and it is one of the more dog-welcoming cellar doors in the valley. It is the Hunter's best-known sparkling specialist, with a sandstone chapel, a restaurant and plenty of lawn, so it works as a relaxed half-day stop with the dog rather than a quick in-and-out tasting.

Where the dog goes. Dogs are welcome on the grassed lawns and courtyard out the front, which look over the vines, and well-behaved dogs are generally accommodated on the shaded veranda. Tastings themselves are an indoor cellar door affair, so plan to take turns or settle the dog outside with you. Restaurant Cuvee allows dogs at its outdoor lunch tables, which is the easy way to make a proper visit of it.

The rules. Keep your dog on a lead at all times. It is a working winery with staff and guests moving through, so a dog that settles quietly under the table will have the best time. Bring a bowl; staff are friendly about topping up water but do not count on dedicated dog amenities.

Getting there. The corner-block location means it is one of the first cellar doors you reach coming into Pokolbin, and there is ample easy on-site parking. That makes it a sensible first or last stop on a vineyard loop, before the dog gets tired of the car.

When to go. A long lunch at Restaurant Cuvee is the standout if you want to dine with the dog, so book the outdoor tables ahead on weekends. Mid-week is calmer underfoot for a nervous 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.