Carol Shelton Wines in Santa Rosa is known for single-vineyard Zinfandels created by Carol Shelton herself, earned her the nickname “The Queen of Zin.” Beyond Zin, the winery produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Carignane, Pinot Noir, and a Rhone-inspired white wine—so whether you prefer bold reds or something lighter, there’s something to taste.

What makes this place different from other Sonoma County wineries is how genuinely welcoming they are to dogs. You can bring your dog along while you’re tasting wines, which means your dog gets to tag along for the whole experience instead of waiting in the car. The winery has built a real atmosphere where both wine lovers and dog owners feel comfortable spending an afternoon together.

The setup works well if you’re exploring the Santa Rosa wine country and want a spot that doesn’t require leaving your dog behind. The tasting experience itself doesn’t feel rushed or formal—it’s casual enough that you can relax with a glass of Zinfandel and actually enjoy the wines without stress. If you’re new to Carol Shelton’s style, the Zinfandels are a good starting point since that’s where the winery’s reputation is built, but trying their other varietals gives you a sense of how they approach winemaking across different grape types.

The location in Santa Rosa puts you close to other Sonoma County wineries and attractions, so this can fit naturally into a larger wine-tasting day. Since they’re dog-friendly, you can plan your route without having to find kennels or worry about timing around your dog’s needs. Stop by their website to see current tastings and what’s available before you visit, since inventory changes seasonally.