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Make sure to bring the kids Cooper's Hawk Vineyards™ offers family experience By Ted Whipp, The Windsor Star July 13, 2011 Beyond the vineyards, a new county winery looks all the more intriguing with its solar panels, ponds and small playground area. They reflect the approach of the O'Brien family and Cooper's Hawk Vineyards™, 1425 Iler Rd., just north of the John R. Park Homestead and Conservation between Kingsville and Harrow. The aim is a destination winery, comfortable for foodies and families to visit, explore, sip and sample. The approach is a winery venture compatible with its surroundings, a picturesque setting with its wideopen vista of vines on a gentle slope to the Iler Road. Cooper's Hawk is already producing wines, mainly three whites, a red and the promise of more to come.The entire property is licensed so visitors can stay awhile, stepping out to wander and enjoy a glass of wine. Bus tours are booked, events are being arranged. And construction continues on the large main building capable of hosting up to 70 people in tasting and reception areas, with completion expected by September. The winery, with its driveway and new parking area, continues to operate from a smaller, nearby building. Expect more greenery. Another pond has already been added, enhanced for wildlife habit, and a wetland area will also be developed elsewhere on the property for wildlife. Trees have been planted and others removed and chipped into mulch. Dirt from construction, has been set aside for a small amphitheatre area in future. Solar panels will supply more than enough electricity and feed into the grid. The farmer who sold the property will grow some garlic and potatoes the winery can sell. "We want to have a parkland here where people can buy a glass of wine, buy some food, go and sit there," O'Brien said. "If you want to have functions here, you can use the grounds to wander." O'Brien originally bought the property as a place to enjoy in retirement with his family, and the winery will essentially help serve the same purpose. Family members including his wife Katy, and grown son Mike and daughters Erin Masse and Meagan O'Brien are directly involved in the winery since planting began three years ago. "We want families to come out with their kids," said O'Brien, a proud grandfather. "We'll have tours. We have so much wildlife out here, it's just incredible." The winery's four wines, a chardonnay, riesling, rosé and cabernet-merlot, each reflect the potential for Cooper's Hawk to produce impressive vintages. To reach Cooper's Hawk Vineyards™, 1425 Iler Rd., between Kingsville and Harrow, call 519-738-4295. Shown in photo to the right: Katy and Tom O'Brien Photo Lower Right: Katy and Tom's son Mike O'Brien at the Shores of Erie Wine Festival 2009 |
  
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