Chimney Rock Winery, established in 1980, sits on the Silverado Trail in Napa Valley’s renowned Stags Leap District—a spot that gives you some real elevation and views once you’re up there. The winery’s distinctive Cape Dutch-inspired architecture stands out among the rolling vineyards, and it’s one of those places where the building itself feels like part of the experience rather than just a backdrop.

Head Winemaker Elizabeth Vianna has shaped the estate’s reputation around Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes sense given the terroir in this part of Napa. They focus on estate-grown fruit, so there’s a direct line between what you see in the vineyards and what ends up in your glass. The tasting experiences give you different angles on that story—the Library Wine Tasting lets you work through older vintages, while the Vineyard Odyssey Tour actually takes you out into the vines with someone who knows what they’re looking at.

The good news for bringing your dog: they’re welcome here on leash in the outdoor areas. You’ll want to mention when you make your reservation that you’re bringing a dog, partly as a heads-up to the winery and partly so they can point you toward the best spots for your particular visit. The outdoor setup works well for that—you’re not cramped into an indoor tasting room where a dog would feel awkward. Just check in directly about any specific guidelines they have, since those details can shift seasonally or depending on what’s happening that day.

The winery draws families regularly, so there’s an established rhythm to hosting groups with varying interests. The grounds themselves reward wandering around a bit, which you can do while your dog gets some air between tastings. Given the elevation and vineyard views, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to spend a few hours rather than rush through.