The River Club is a collaborative wine tasting space created by two family-owned wineries, Belong Wine Co. and Paper Planes Wine Co., located along the Napa River in the Tannery District just beyond downtown. If you’re bringing your dog, this is a genuinely welcoming spot—they mean it about pets being welcome, and the riverside location gives you room to move around without feeling cramped.

The setup is refreshingly unpretentious. You’re tasting wines from both wineries in one intimate venue with actual river views, which makes a difference on a warm afternoon. The contemporary space doesn’t feel sterile or overly designed; it’s more like visiting someone’s well-curated living room than a formal tasting room. The winemakers and owners actually host the tastings, so you’re getting their perspective directly rather than talking to a staff member reading from notes.

The wine selection focuses on fresh, dynamic wines from across Northern California, and the whole experience leans casual and conversational. This matters if you’re traveling with your dog—there’s less of that stiff formality that makes dogs nervous and owners anxious about bothering people.

Reservations are strongly recommended and you can book until 3 p.m. the day before your visit. If you’re flexible and want to try showing up without one, you can text to ask about same-day spots, though during peak times that’s a long shot. When you make your reservation, let them know you’re bringing your dog so they can plan seating accordingly and have water available.

The Tannery District location gives you easy access to other spots in the area if you want to spend the afternoon exploring. There’s real walkability once you’re down by the river, which your dog will probably appreciate as much as you will after tasting wine.