Laura Michael Wines, also known as Zahtila Vineyards, sits in the heart of Calistoga’s wine country and welcomes dogs to join you for tastings. Founded in 1999 by Laura Zahtila, this boutique operation focuses on small-lot, handcrafted wines rather than high-volume production. You’ll find their lineup centers on three main varietals: Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon, each made to highlight what the Napa terroir brings to the grapes.

The tasting experience here is relaxed and personal. Since they’re producing smaller quantities, you get a sense of how much attention goes into each wine. The vineyard views from the property give you that classic Wine Country backdrop while you’re sampling. Your dog can come along for the experience, which makes the whole visit feel less formal than some of the bigger operations in the area. It’s the kind of place where you’re not feeling rushed through a predetermined tasting menu.

Calistoga itself is worth exploring while you’re in the area. It’s at the northern end of Napa Valley, closer to some good hiking if you and your dog want to stretch beyond wine tasting. The town has that small-town Wine Country feel without being as polished as some of the valley’s other destinations.

Since this is a smaller winery, hours and availability can vary, so checking ahead online before making the drive up from the valley floor makes sense. They keep things intimate intentionally, which is part of what draws people here in the first place. The focus on handcrafted wines in limited quantities means you might find something you can’t get anywhere else.