The Blind Horse Restaurant & Winery recently expanded into Cedarburg following a project that transformed a historic downtown building into an 1,800-square-foot cellar-style tasting room, which opened Oct. 8.
Located at W63 N674 Washington Ave., The Blind Horse Cellar – Cedarburg is the winery’s second location. Owners Bob and Connie Moeller opened their flagship property in 2012 on a 7-acre plot of former farm land just north of the village of Kohler.
The Cedarburg location offers the same “Napa Valley-inspired wine experience” on a smaller scale, featuring the Blind Horse’s full wine portfolio with more than 20 vintages including many award-winning selections and winery favorites. Non-alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase. It also offers a menu of chef-curated foods, including flatbreads, lobster cargot, lobster rolls, tuna ceviche, paninis, and build your own blini.
Blind Horse owners Connie and Bob Moeller outside their new Cedarburg location. Photo credit: The Blind Horse
The Moellers purchased the Cedarburg building and began renovations in spring 2024. The former woolen mill building dates back to the 1840s and was most recently home to an apparel boutique called Elements Unleashed.
The decision to expand the winery’s physical footprint was prompted by state legislation passed in 2024 allowing Wisconsin wineries and breweries to operate multiple locations. The business is now eyeing additional growth opportunities across the state.
“The Blind Horse has 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. “The quaint environs, spectacular high-traffic location, and the historically unique building were key elements in selecting this building as the framework to create the first satellite Blind Horse location. This property will likely become the template for additional Blind Horse properties in other Wisconsin travel towns.”
Featuring design elements such as restored exposed brick, gold foil detailing, horse-themed decor and art — and the largest bar in Cedarburg — the new tasting room was designed to celebrate the historic character and integrity of the property. The blend of rustic and refined elements is a nod to the Blind Horse’s Kohler location and the charm of downtown Cedarburg, according to a press release.
“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,” said Connie Moeller.
The renovation project was led by Steve Peschke of Sheboygan Falls-based Distinctive Design Studio and Steve Schmitt of Sheboygan-based Jos. Schmitt Construction.
