For more than 150 years, fortune seekers have been lured to California’s rugged Sierra Foothills. Though they once came for the gold, these days they come for the wine—Terra d’Oro, to be more specific. Handcrafted from some of Amador County’s most historic vineyards, Terra D’Oro Winery in Plymouth stands as a testament to the region’s winemaking legacy.

The setting itself feels authentically Gold Country. You’ll drive through rolling hills dotted with old mining remnants and grapevines that have been producing fruit for generations. Once you arrive, the vineyard landscape opens up in front of you, with plenty of space to walk around while tasting.

Terra D’Oro welcomes well-behaved dogs on leashes in designated areas throughout the property. This means you can actually explore the vineyards with your dog rather than leaving them behind or confining them to a car. The outdoor tasting experience lets you sample the winery’s award-winning selections—rich Zinfandels, elegant Barberas, and other varietals that reflect what grows well in this particular corner of the foothills. The diversity of their lineup means there’s genuinely something different to try whether you prefer bold reds or lighter offerings.

What makes this work well for a dog visit is that the vineyard layout doesn’t feel cramped. Your dog won’t be weaving through crowded indoor tasting rooms or dealing with tight spaces. The outdoor areas give everyone room to move comfortably, and the staff are accustomed to dogs being part of the experience here.

The winery’s commitment to traditional methods shows in every glass—these aren’t mass-produced wines. They’re rooted in the actual terroir and history of these specific vineyards. Bring water for your dog and plan to spend a couple of hours wandering, tasting, and taking in the view of the surrounding Sierra Foothills landscape. The combination of decent wine and actual room to move around with your dog makes this stop worth the drive.