Piggs Peake Winery

Piggs Peake on Hermitage Road is the unpretentious, fun end of the Pokolbin spectrum: a boutique winery known for experimental styles and a laid-back welcome that extends to dogs. It is one of the cellar doors where well-behaved dogs can join you inside for the tasting, not just on the lawn, which makes it a good hot-day or wet-day pick.

Where the dog goes. Dogs are generally welcome inside the cellar door for tastings, and there is plenty of outdoor courtyard and lawn space to sit in warmer weather. It is relaxed about pets, but it is still a tasting room, so a dog that settles quietly does best.

The rules. Lead on at all times. Two things to mind: there are roaming peacocks on the property and a resident winery dog, so read the room and keep your dog close on arrival. Water bowls are often out, but bring your own to be safe.

What is there. The wines are the talking point, with offbeat names and styles from sweet reds to heavier drops, and there is lunch on-site, including flatbreads and charcuterie, so you can make a proper stop of it.

Getting there. 697 Hermitage Road, with on-site parking. Hermitage Road has a scenic walking stretch nearby if the dog needs a leg-stretch before or after.

When to go. Saturdays get busy, so book a table to lock in a dog-friendly spot, or come on a weekday morning for the calmest run at it.

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