Wente Estate sprawls across Livermore’s rolling vineyard landscape, and if you’re planning to visit with your dog, you’ll find the place genuinely welcoming. The Estate Winery & Tasting Room sits at the center of the grounds, where you can work through a tasting of five wines while staff walk you through what you’re experiencing. They do this in a “tasting in the round” format, which means you’re moving and mingling rather than sitting at a bar—good news if your dog gets antsy indoors.

The real draw here for dog owners is the outdoor patio overlooking the vineyards. You can settle in with a glass of wine while your dog has space to move around without feeling confined. The grounds themselves are substantial enough that you’re not crammed in with other visitors, and there’s actual vineyard to look at, which beats a typical tasting room interior. Dogs are allowed to explore the property, though you’ll want to keep an eye on them around the vines and any uneven terrain.

Wente also hosts events throughout the year, and some of these can be dog-friendly depending on what’s happening—worth checking their calendar if you’re flexible on timing. The East Bay location works well if you’re already in the Livermore area since there’s nothing quick about wine country visits anyway. Plan for a couple of hours minimum, especially if you want to grab food or spend time on the grounds without feeling rushed.

One thing worth knowing: this is a working vineyard with uneven ground in places, so comfortable shoes and water for your dog matter more here than at indoor tasting rooms. The outdoor setup means weather plays a role—hot days can be tough, and rain limits the experience. Call ahead about their current pet policy and any seasonal restrictions, since winery policies shift more often than they used to.