Saddler's Creek Wines

Saddler's Creek at 15 Marrowbone Road is the relaxed, picnic-garden end of Pokolbin: a family-owned winery built around a spacious outdoor garden, live music on weekends and casual Italian food from Mangia at Saddler's. Dogs are very welcome in the picnic garden, so it is one of the easier wineries to spend a whole afternoon at with a dog along.

Where the dog goes. Dogs are welcome across the outdoor picnic garden and grounds, which look out to the vines and the Brokenback Range. The cellar door focus is the garden rather than indoors, so settle in on the grass; check on arrival if you want a covered spot. There is room here for a dog to relax rather than be tucked under a tiny table.

The rules. Lead on at all times and keep the dog managed around other groups. The garden gets busy and musical on weekends, so a noise-sensitive dog may prefer a quieter session. Bring your own bowl; staff often have water out but do not rely on it.

What is there. Small-batch wines including Semillon, Chardonnay and bold reds, plus Mangia at Saddler's for casual Italian and live music from Friday twilight through the weekend. It is set up for lingering, not a quick tasting.

Getting there. 15 Marrowbone Road, central Pokolbin, with free on-site parking.

When to go. Weekends bring the live music and the Mangia menu but also the crowds. For a calmer garden with the dog, come earlier in the day or mid-week.

Sources

• Visit Us | Saddler's Creek Winery · saddlerscreek.com
• 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.