We’re not just interested in friendly wineries but also dog friendly wineries. When visiting cellar doors across the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast, there is usually a special welcoming party. They often hear the car pull up, leave their guests that they have just welcomed, in search of new guests for more pats. Yes, McLaren Vale is home to the winery dogs – so famous that there is even a winery dog of the year. And even if there isn’t a resident dog onsite many of them still welcome your four-legged friend.

The region of McLaren Vale is not only where you will meet talented winemakers, taste some great wine and enjoy the seasonal produce, but where your fur baby will be welcomed and perhaps steal the attention – you wouldn’t have it any other way. Some wineries even offer special treats for them too!

The sunshine and warmer weather provides for great experiences to enjoy with your fur-babies. McLaren Vale is also home to one of the most iconic dog friendly trails in South Australia, The Shiraz Trail (part of the 38km Coast to Vines Rail Trail). So, start with a nice long walk then finish off with a wine or two and a fresh dog bowl too.

Of course, always keep in mind good dog “pawtiquette” when visiting cellar doors. Ensure your dog is on a lead, is well behaved and you have dog bags on hand for when nature calls.

Here’s a list of dog friendly cellar doors we have sniffed out for you…. Pick your favourite or work through the list!

The ones that go above and beyond:

Alpha Box & Dice – they love to welcome dogs and even have handmade dog biscuits on offer.

Bec Hardy Wines, very dog friendly, offering a grazing bowl for dogs on the menu and while you are there say hi to Churchill, Bec’s dog.

Dog Ridge, as you would guess from the name, dog friendly and home to wine dogs Ralphy and Ringo.

Battle of Bosworth, make sure you say hello to Badger the Bordoodle when you're there! 

Kay Brothers winery where visiting dogs are treated to biscuits from the iconic ceramic dog biscuit barrel. 

Mollydooker Wines, snap an Instagram-worthy photo of your pooch on the famous Mollydooker truck.

Lazy Ballerina, during your time there you might even spot Mia, their residential winery dog.

Others that are happy to welcome you and your pets:

S.C. Pannell, dogs are welcome to join you outside and water bowls are available.

Paxton winery, there is dog friendly and shaded seating outside offering magnificent vineyard views. 

J&J Wines, try today, it won’t disappoint.

Angoves, beautiful setting and relaxed atmosphere.

Hugh Hamilton, they welcome dogs to their outdoor seating area while you sip away. 

Vigna Bottin, a great spot and dog friendly.

Wirra Wirra, there are plenty of grassed areas for dogs to enjoy while you relax.

Penny’s Hill, a perfect spot for a beautiful day out with friends and your fur-baby.

Maxwell Wines, a large grass area and stunning views.

Beach Road Wines, they love when guests bring their furry pals along to join the fun.

Ortus Wines, everyone is welcome, even your dog.

Gemtree Wines, beautiful views and wine.

Samuels Gorge, take your dog to experience the views and vines of this stellar winery.

Chapel Hill Wine, dogs welcome, people too!

And here’s a ‘doggy’ playlist we created for you on Spotify for you to listen to on your drive out…. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0uRLn4yiec3wRFxDl1Zps8?si=3Larrvk0TzaU-uuJz-51lg&pi=a-GAbySMSwQvCp