Located in Deer Park on Howell Mountain near St. Helena, Burgess Cellars is a small family winery tucked into California Wine Country with a relaxed approach to visitors and their dogs. The setting feels genuinely intimate—the kind of place where you’re not herded through a tasting room with dozens of other people, but rather given real attention to what you’re tasting.

Dogs on leash are welcome here, which is refreshing since many wineries in the area are strict about it. The staff doesn’t make a big deal about it either, just asks that you clean up after your dog during the visit, which is fair. The tasting room itself has a casual vibe that makes a visit with a dog feel natural rather than like you’re sneaking something past the management.

Since tastings are by appointment only, you’ll need to plan ahead and contact the winery to schedule your time. This actually works in your favor—it keeps things uncrowded and means you’re not competing with walk-in traffic for the staff’s attention. When you do visit, you get a quieter experience where you can actually taste through their wines without a packed tasting room around you.

The location on Howell Mountain gives you a sense of elevation and space that’s different from the valley floor wineries. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an hour or two, taste some wine, and feel like you’ve actually gotten away from the busier parts of Napa rather than just moved between tourist stops.

Check their website for current hours and operation days before you head out, as small family wineries sometimes have limited tasting schedules. Having your appointment confirmed ahead of time means you won’t drive up and find the gates closed.