Tintilla Estate Wines

Tintilla Estate at 725 Hermitage Road is a boutique vineyard with a Tuscan-farmhouse cellar door that makes wine and olives both. It is a friendly, informal tasting with vineyard views, and a dog-friendly door, with dogs welcome in the outdoor courtyard, lawns and seating while you taste.

Where the dog goes. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas, courtyard and surrounding lawns, and staff usually seat you and the dog outside for the tasting. Water bowls are often provided. The outdoor seating has the vineyard view, so it is the spot to aim for anyway.

The rules. Friendly, well-behaved, leashed dogs only, which is the standard across the dog-friendly Hunter doors. Keep the dog with you and bring your own bowl as backup.

What is there. Small-batch Hunter wines including Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Cabernet, plus the estate's own olives, olive oils and jams, which makes for a nice provisions stop on top of the wine. The Tuscan-style building is part of the charm.

Getting there. 725 Hermitage Road, easily reached from the Hunter Expressway, with on-site parking by the tasting room.

When to go. Hermitage Road stays quieter than the main spines, so it is relaxed most days, but earlier and mid-week is calmest for the dog. Several neighbouring doors are dog-friendly for an easy loop.

Sources

• Cellar Door Pokolbin, Hunter Valley - Tintilla Estate · tintilla.com.au

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