Dark Horse Estate Winery
On a picturesque 85-acre property just to the lee of Lake Huron sits an impressive 31,000-square-foot manor house at the end of a sweeping drive lined with herb and vegetable gardens on prominent display. Almost every view from inside the building looks out on to the 31 acres of vines growing the grapes that will eventually make their way to the bottles of wine that line the retail store shelves.
Despite its grand demeanor, Dark Horse Estate Winery is, at its very core, a family business. Ashley Horlor and her husband Craig have been entrusted with the management of the winery on behalf of her parents and family, growing it and evolving it over the years, to focus not only on the winery and its exceptional event and banquet facility, but also creating a true culinary experience.
Dark Horse’s latest addition is the intimate dining room on the lower level. Danu Cellars is an elevated steakhouse experience, with added touches such as the delightful amuse-bouches between courses and a petit four for the perfect end to the meal. Chef Kris works with estate-grown vegetables and herbs, as well as local farms to showcase the region’s bounty.
Part of the estate’s appeal is the well-designed outdoor spaces with two beautiful patios. The main level patio is a great place to enjoy lunch with friends with a view of the vineyards and pairing the perfect wine.
This summer, Ashley says that they are increasing their customer base by welcoming our furry four-legged friends. An idle paddock beside the winery will be transformed into a dog park, complete with agility equipment and a tent and picnic tables (for the human companions’ comfort), and the custom-built mobile trailer will be available for refreshments.
Don’t miss the “pup flights” on the dog-friendly tasting patio just off the retail store. Choose up to four different gourmet treats on a custom tasting board for your favourite pooch.
In addition to hosting many weddings of all sizes and various conferences, Dark Horse also creates its own events, like last summer’s family-friendly Civic Holiday with face-painting, inflatables and entertainment. (Follow their social media to see what plans they have for this summer!).
The vines were planted in 2015, and had their first harvest in 2018. They now have four wine series, from the approachable
Unforgettable, to the signature One Horse, to the distinguished Stirling Gate and the Maeryn, reserved for only the most exceptional wine each year. Craig enjoys the creativity of working with the vintner to select the blends for the wines. In addition to purchasing at the winery or LCBO, Dark Horse wines are available online and at select convenience store outlets throughout the region.
70665 B Line, Grand Bend (next to Huron Country Playhouse) www.darkhorseestatewinery.com
