Outbound Hound - Travel Unleashed

Last week Katina and I decided to do something more civilized – ha. We took the dogs to Barrel Oak Winery (BOW) in Delaplane, Virginia.

We went after work on a Friday and unfortunately rain was heading our way so we didn’t really get any playtime with the dogs outside before going in for our tasting. However, on the “heels” (pun intended) of Katina’s last “tune-up” post, we were in the mindset of having the dogs be well-behaved guests.

The winery prides itself on being both dog and family friendly and they are! They are also content if you bring your own snacks though they do offer cheese plates and other goodies that go well with their varied selection of wines.

Katina and I belied up to the wine bar for our tastings as the dogs greeted everyone that would look their way. The tasting was a mix of BOW wines and other wines from both near and far. Because the owners are such dog fans, their bottles have photos of their dogs and their dessert wine – which I bought – is named “Chocolate Lab.”

The atmosphere was really great  - complete with wonderful live music after 6p – and after the tasting we sat down to chat over a glass of wine as the dogs practiced behaving and calmly saying hello to all who came their way. It was both a good socializing exercise for the dogs and a lovely evening for us!

We were told that on nice days there are dozens of dogs roaming off leash on the property and they welcome any dog that plays well with others! We look forward to going back soon and highly recommend it!