Replicating the Napa Valley-inspired wine experience of its principal property in Kohler, The Blind Horse Cellar opened for business on Wednesday in downtown Cedarburg.
The 1,800-square-foot building at W63 N674 Washington Ave. is the winery’s second location and becomes the latest addition to a vibrant wine scene in and around the heart of Cedarburg.
“We’ve been keeping a pulse on real estate opportunities in Wisconsin’s top tourist cities such as Cedarburg, Lake Geneva and De Pere,” said Bob Moeller, who co-owns The Blind Horse with his wife, Connie. “Cedarburg is one of the most coveted destinations in our state for wine enthusiasts and we are elated to join the vibrant, charming and travel-worthy downtown Cedarburg district.”
The cellar-style concept took root as a result of a 2023 overhaul of state liquor laws that allowed Wisconsin wineries to operate multiple locations and stay open later.
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The Blind Horse owners purchased the historic Cedarburg building shortly after the change and started extensive renovations in spring 2024. “When we opened The Blind Horse 13 years ago in Kohler, we would never have imagined opening a second location,” Moeller said.
Moeller said the tasting room’s design maintains the historic character and integrity of the property, which was built in the 1840s and is located along the edge of Cedar Creek. It is across from the Cedarburg Art Museum and most recently was home to an apparel boutique.
Design elements include restored rustic exposed brick, gold foil detail on the ceiling, horse-themed decor and art, vintage oil lanterns, and what its owners claim to be the largest bar in Cedarburg.
“The eclectic space has been carefully crafted to highlight the original architectural elements of the building while mimicking the aesthetics of The Blind Horse in Kohler with its unique decor, rich materials and curated art pieces,” Blind Horse co-owner Connie Moeller said.
Steve Peskie of Distinctive Design Studio of Sheboygan Falls, and Jos. Schmitt Construction of Sheboygan renovated and restored the building and outdoor spaces.
The Cedarburg property will likely become the template for future Blind Horse properties in other Wisconsin communities, Connie Moeller said.
The Moellers opened the Blind Horse Restaurant and Winery in April 2012 on a 7-acre parcel at 6018 Superior Ave. in Kohler. The property was once part of a larger parcel that featured a farm run by Anton Dreps and his wife, Josephine, who purchased the land in 1862. One of the team of horses that helped cultivate the land was a blind Percheron named Birdy that served as the inspiration for the name of the winery and restaurant. The Moellers became aware of the story while searching through Sheboygan County Historical archives.
The Blind Horse Cellar will showcase the entire portfolio of Blind Horse wines with more than 20 vintages from winemaker Patrick Regenwether including Super Tuscan, Black Gypsy, Roan Rider, Peach Chardonnay, Flirty Birdy and Bourbon Barrel Cab. “Chef-curated” bites include flatbreads, lobster cargot and rolls, tuna ceviche, panini and build-your-own blini.
Hours of operation are Wednesdays and Thursdays 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
