August Briggs Winery sits in Calistoga, where the volcanic soil and mineral-rich water have made the region legendary for wine. Joe Briggs, who spent over 25 years perfecting his craft before becoming owner, sources grapes from carefully selected vineyards across Napa and Sonoma counties to produce wines in small batches. The winery started as an employee-owned operation, which shaped its philosophy from the start—quality over quantity, respect for the land, and genuine hospitality.

When you visit with your dog, you’ll walk through the vineyards on the property itself. The tasting room has a relaxed feel, nothing pretentious about it. You can do guided tours that walk you through how they actually make their wines, not just the finished product. The staff explains what goes into deciding when to harvest, how they handle fermentation, and why vintage matters. It’s the kind of place where you understand the work behind what’s in your glass.

The dog-friendly setup means your dog isn’t sitting in a car while you taste—they’re right there with you on the grounds. The estate has enough space that dogs aren’t cramped, and the vineyards give you room to move around. The winery maintains a strong sustainability focus, which extends to how they treat their property and visitors.

Calistoga itself is worth exploring if you’re spending the day. It’s a smaller town than Napa or Sonoma, with a more casual wine-country feel. Hot springs are nearby if you want to soak in them after your visit. The volcanic landscape gives the whole area a distinctive look, especially when you’re standing in the vineyard looking at the volcanic hills around you.

The tasting experience here isn’t rushed. You’re not being herded through in 45 minutes—they give you time to think about what you’re drinking and ask questions. Bring your dog, bring someone who actually wants to learn about wine, and plan on staying a few hours.