The Tri-Valley region is sometimes wrongly dismissed by those who don’t live there as a drive-by destination on the way to somewhere else. That’s their loss and your gain! The intrepid DogTrekkers who take time to explore this East Bay region encompassing three adjacent valleys and five dog-friendly communities are amply rewarded.
Dog at Concannon Winery
Among the oldest of California wine regions, the Tri-valley area 33 miles east of San Francisco is home to around 50 wineries, many of them dog-friendly. The region’s boutique labels are produced in small lots and not widely known, which makes it all the more fun to discover something new.
Tops when it comes to wine production is the Livermore Valley Wine Country, which shares a landscape very similar to that more famous valley whose four-letter name starts with “N.” Three dog-friendly vino spots to put on your list: El Sol, where Fido can join you on the patio; Fenestra, where you and yours can sip and nibble in a lovely picnic area; and Las Positas, where the dog-friendly picnic area boasts stellar vineyard views.
One of our favorite places to visit with Fido is Garre Winery and Café, whose Italian roots are reflected in the restaurant’s Mediterranean lunch menu and the bocce courts just outside. Take a seat on the expansive patio (dogs welcome, of course) and ask the server to pair your dishes with wines made from grapes grown right outside the door. If this isn’t California wine heaven, we don’t know what is.
Want more? Concannon is a big name in Tri-Valley wine country, but DogTrekkers here are greeted with hospitality, not swagger. The home of America’s first Irish vintner has lovely picnic grounds where you’re welcome to set up shop with your dog. The Underdog Wine Bar next door serves small plates and more than 50 wines by the glass. Load up and head outdoors to enjoy a memorable repast.
