Charles B. Mitchell Vineyards sits in the rolling hills of Somerset in El Dorado County, and it’s one of those places where you can actually bring your dog along while you taste wine. The Sierra Foothills setting means you get views that make the whole experience feel less like a tasting room visit and more like a proper outing.

They focus on wines that do well in this elevation and climate—Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache, Syrah, Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Port. The wine list gives you enough variety that whether you’re into lighter whites or structured reds, there’s something to try. The Sauvignon Blanc is a natural choice if you’re visiting on a warm afternoon, while the Syrah and Barbera show what the local terroir can do.

What makes this place different is the straightforward dog-friendly approach. They don’t make a big production out of it, but dogs are welcome, which means you’re not stressed about whether your dog fits their vague policy or if they’ll suddenly change their mind. That said, it’s worth checking their website or calling ahead to confirm current details about where exactly dogs can be—whether that’s indoors, outdoors, or just on the patio area.

The Somerset location puts you in wine country without the Napa crowds. If you’re exploring El Dorado County vineyards, you could string together a few stops in the area, or if you’re coming from the foothills towns like Placerville, it’s a reasonable drive. Bring water for your dog and plan to spend a couple of hours if you want to properly taste through their selection. The website has more details about their current hours and any seasonal changes to their operation.