Blind Horse Winery Review
Address: 6018 Superior Ave Kohler,Wisconsin 53044.
Phone Number: 920-467-8599
Tasting Hours: See website for wine tasting details
Region: Wisconsin Ledge AVA, Wisconsin
Reviewer: Larschelby Kidd
Review Date: 4/24/2014
Reviewer: Larschelby Kidd
Rating: 5
The Review
It’s always grand to be a part of something new. The Blind Horse Winery opened its doors to plenty of fanfare. The winery is located in the heart of Sheboygan County within the city or village limits of Kohler, WI. Kohler is home to Kohler Co. and the Five Diamond Five Star-rated American Club Resort. Blind Horse is not hidden in the shadows of its famous neighbors but is making a name for itself all on its own. It’s claim, WINE. That luscious juice made from nature’s helping hand, GRAPES.
The Blind Horse opened its doors to the public in April 2014. The winery is sophisticated and classy yet retains a warm, homey feel. The tasting room is two stories with the main bar on the first floor and the second floor serving as an extension for sampling wines or for conducting a private tasting experience. Catering to both locals and tourists, the wines were thoughtfully selected to appeal to a wide range of palates. The Blind Horse Winery serves nineteen red and white wines covering the entire sweet to dry spectrum.
On opening day, I was first in line to sample Wisconsin’s newest addition to the wine industry. My experience began with a selective sampling with the winemaker Thomas Nye. We sampled through my first six. First impressions are everything, and the impression was favorable. Toms’ attention to quality and balance is clearly expressed in the glass. The grapes used to produce the wines are sourced from growers in California, and Washington with whom Tom has built relationships. There are plans to make wine from grapes grown by local Wisconsin growers and/or possibly to start a vineyard to grow their own grapes.
Of the first whites and reds I sampled my favorites are: Naked Chardonnay, Riesling off dry, Pinot Gris, Birdy’s Red and Merlot. We next did the One Bite Wine Pairings. Compliments to the Chef on capturing the essence of the wines taste with each of the five dishes presented. Num!
Since the grand opening, I’ve visited the winery to check on consistency. I can attest that it just keeps getting better. The tasting room staff may have exhibited some opening day jitters, but they are now seasoned professionals in their new home. They were spot on with service and knowledge of the wines and seem determined to give each customer a truly educational experience. Each of the different Tasting Associates I sampled with was a wealth of information. Not only could they answer almost any wine question, but they were also adept at helping customers find or explore their wine preferences.
They’ve incorporated the Patio Bar to take advantage of the beautifully landscaped grounds and added live music events. Did I mention the restaurant? Yes on the property is the Blind Horse Restaurant. This was the first business added to this historic property and then came the winery.
With the restaurant the standard was set. World class dishes served amongst beautiful décor that utilized the original woods, irons, and natural surroundings. The addition of the winery made The Blind Horse a destination that you must visit.
The Blind Horse offers a Wine Club for its fans with three shipments a year of various styles. Want to be your own winemaker with a personalized label? All of this and more are offered to followers of The Blind Horse Winery and Restaurant. As a local to the area, I enjoy having a winery in my backyard. (smile)