Two Dog Tales

I recently visited a dog-friendly winery out near the Appalachian Trail, Notaviva Vineyards in Purcellville, Va.

This dog-friendly winery welcomes pups at their many picnic tables overlooking the scenic rolling Virginia hills, as well as at the tables on their comfortable front porch.

The vineyard was voted Best Live Music in DC’s Wine Country, and features rock, folk, bluegrass, Celtic, jazz and classical performers. Their tasting room has comfortable couches and a loft, with a very relaxed vibe–unlike some of the wineries filled with bachelorette parties and wine tour busloads.

The weekend I was there, the Roaming Rotisserie gourmet mobile kitchen (aka food truck) had its grand opening. The truck serves delicious dry-rubbed rotisserie chicken, pulled chicken sandwiches and sides including garlic fries and cilantro-lime rice. The owner said he planned to be out at Notaviva on weekends.

The décor at Notaviva has some unique touches, such as the sink base made out of a wine barrel in one of the restrooms.

So whether you make it a day of visiting some of the many Loudon County wineries, or do some hiking before you sample the fruit of the vines, bring the two- and four-legged kids and enjoy a great day in the country!