The Tipsy Cow Malt & Vine Co.

Has there been a certain furry, four-legged friend missing from your whisky-drinking sessions? Well, not anymore — Melbourne's landed a new neighbourhood bar that's about as dog-friendly as they come.

Setting up shop on Port Melbourne's Bay Street, The Tipsy Cow's bringing the goods for humans and pooches alike, boasting both a broad-ranging drinks offering and a dog-friendly courtyard in which to enjoy the spoils.

For their first joint venture, owners Anupam Sharma and Paul Tudor were out to create a comfy "den for grown-ups", with all the things they themselves would want to find in a bar: squashy couches, a toasty fireplace, sports on the telly, plenty of great whisky and, most importantly, a whole lotta dogs.

The beer lineup's a healthy mix of local craft brews and European favourites, and the cocktail list pays homage to the classics, but it's the whisky selection that's getting people most excited. After all, there aren't too many other beer gardens where you can enjoy a Talisker 18-year-old or a Macallan Sienna in the company of your pup.

Don't have furry mate of your own? Grab a drink and head out back anyway — you're guaranteed some wet nose kisses from The Tipsy Cow mascot and resident pooch, Nisha.

There'll be a selection of cheese and charcuterie platters on offer once the kitchen's up and running, and the upstairs loft space is set to play host to regular tasting events in the not-too-distant-future.