Bechard Vineyard & Winery sits at 2400 feet in Somerset, overlooking the North Fork of the Cosumnes River in El Dorado County’s Fair Play AVA. It’s the northernmost winery in the appellation, and they make small-lot premium wines using natural winemaking techniques that really let the individual characteristics of each grape come through. Dogs are welcome here, which makes it a solid stop if you’re spending time in the Sierra Foothills wine country.

The patio is the main draw—you can sit out there with your dog while you’re tasting wines and looking out at the vineyards and rolling hills. It’s genuinely quiet and peaceful, not crowded or overstimulating for dogs who might get anxious around lots of people. The views alone make it worth the drive up to Somerset. There’s actual space to move around without feeling cramped, and the whole vibe is low-key enough that most dogs settle in pretty easily while you’re working through their wine list.

Bechard hosts seasonal events and activities throughout the year, and many of them are set up so you can bring your dog along. I’d call ahead before you go to confirm what their current pet policy looks like, since it can shift depending on what’s happening that day or season. They’re a small operation, so talking to them directly will give you the clearest picture of what to expect when you arrive.

The surrounding area has plenty to explore if you want to make a full day of it. El Dorado County has several dog-friendly hiking trails and parks scattered through the Sierra Foothills, so you could easily combine a morning hike with an afternoon at the winery. The elevation means it’s usually cooler than lower foothill areas, which is nice if you’re visiting during warmer months. If you’re already in Somerset or visiting wineries in Fair Play, this one is worth the stop. The handcrafted approach to the wines is genuine, and the setting actually gives your dog room to relax while you’re tasting.