St Clair Wines

St Clair Wines is a small, family-run cellar door on Deasys Road in Pokolbin, recognised as a dog-friendly stop and known for an unusual twist: Thirsty Palette art-and-wine workshops alongside the tastings. The welcome is personal, run by the owners themselves.

Where the dog goes. Dogs are welcome in the dog-friendly cellar door area, which centres on the outdoor courtyard space for a relaxed tasting. Keep yours on a lead at all times. Staff are good with dogs, but bring your own water bowl as backup. As a small family business, a quick call ahead to say you are bringing a dog is the considerate move so they can set aside space.

What is there. Intimate, personalised tastings of quality boutique wines, plus the Thirsty Palette art workshops if you want to pair painting with your pour.

Getting there. Deasys Road, Pokolbin, with on-site parking at the cellar door. Confirm the exact address when you book, as it sits among several Deasys Road vineyards.

When to go. The small, family-run scale rewards a quieter weekday and a call ahead. A milder part of the day suits a dog in the outdoor courtyard in summer.

Sources

• A pet-friendly guide to the Hunter Valley | Visit NSW · visitnsw.com
• Dog-Friendly Cellar Doors - Hunter Valley | HUNTERhunter · hunterhunter.com.au

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