THE COAST IS CALLING: Cowbell Brewing Co. Unveils Grand Bend Stirling Sands Vineyards, a New Era of Wine Hospitality on Ontario’s West Coast
Former Dark Horse Estate Winery Reimagined as a Destination Experience for Wine, Dining, Community and Tourism in Southwestern Ontario
This summer, Cowbell Brewing Co. will open the doors to Grand Bend Stirling Sands Vineyards, a reimagined wine and hospitality destination in Huron County, Ontario, marking the next chapter for the former Dark Horse Estate Winery property and a major investment in the future of tourism, culinary experiences, and community along Ontario’s West Coast.
The name Stirling Sands finds history in the landscape and spirit of Ontario’s West Coast. “Stirling” draws inspiration from the strength, discipline, and working heritage of the horses that once helped bring the surrounding farmland to life, while “Sands” reflects the Lake Huron shoreline and natural coast shaped by wind, water, and time. Together, the name represents the balance of grit and grace that defines both the region and the experience Grand Bend Stirling Sands aims to create.
Opening officially on June 23, the property has been thoughtfully reinvented as a vibrant estate destination where wine, food, social gathering and coastal culture come together in one unforgettable setting.
Grounded in Cowbell Brewing Co.’s commitment to locally-rooted hospitality and community-building, Grand Bend Stirling Sands Vineyards aims to become a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists exploring Southwestern Ontario.
“This is about creating something that feels truly special to this region,” said Natasha Fritzley, President of Cowbell Brewing Co. “Grand Bend Stirling Sands is more than a winery. It’s an experience designed to celebrate the coast, the people, the pace and the incredible sense of community that makes this part of Ontario unlike anywhere else.”
The launch represents Cowbell Brewing Co.’s first expansion beyond its flagship Blyth location and reflects the company’s long-term vision to continue investing in Southwestern Ontario and the surrounding tourism economy through hospitality-driven experiences.
“Grand Bend already holds a special place in so many people’s summer traditions,” said Fritzley. “We saw an opportunity to create a destination that adds another layer to why people choose to visit, stay longer and come back again.”
At the heart of Grand Bend Stirling Sands Vineyards is a renewed emphasis on elevated yet approachable food and beverage programming. Led by Executive Chef, Kris Simmons, the culinary vision brings together locally inspired flavours, curated wine experiences and a welcoming atmosphere designed to encourage guests to slow down, gather and stay awhile.
“We wanted to build a place where people feel connected to the moment they arrive,” said Simmons. “Whether you’re here for a tasting, dinner with friends, or an afternoon on the patio after the beach, every part of the experience has been designed to feel warm, memorable, and distinctly coastal.”
The property will feature immersive wine tastings, elevated dining experiences, community events, and future collaborations with local businesses, producers, and tourism partners throughout the region.
Cowbell leadership says community impact is central to the vision, with plans to support local hiring, regional partnerships, and cross-promotional opportunities that help strengthen the broader Southwestern Ontario hospitality ecosystem.
“We believe tourism destinations become stronger when local businesses grow together,” Fritzley added. “There’s incredible momentum building across this region and we’re proud to invest in creating jobs, supporting local partners, and ultimately giving people another reason to explore Ontario’s West Coast.”
While the property enters a new chapter under the Grand Bend Stirling Sands Vineyards name, the team says the vision for the property is rooted in creating a more community-driven, hospitality-focused destination for Huron & Lambton counties.
“This property has incredible potential and sits in one of the most remarkable tourism regions in Ontario,” said Fritzley. “This next chapter is about more than growth — it is about deepening our connection to the vineyard, evolving the wine program, and allowing the terroir to shape everything we create. We are committed to building a destination defined by thoughtful winemaking and place-based hospitality that reflects the spirit of Ontario’s West Coast — a place where guests can gather, celebrate the region, and create lasting traditions for generations to come.”
With summer around the corner, Grand Bend Stirling Sands is ready to become one of Ontario’s newest tourism and hospitality attractions, inviting visitors to experience the coast through wine, food, community, and connection.
Because this summer, the coast is calling.
About Grand Bend Stirling Sands Vineyards
Grand Bend Stirling Sands Vineyards is a new wine and hospitality destination located in Huron County, Ontario, opening June 23, 2026. Created by Cowbell Brewing Co., Grand Bend Stirling Sands Vineyards offers elevated wine tasting, culinary experiences, event spaces, and community-driven hospitality inspired by the culture and coastline of Southwestern Ontario.
Updates will be shared in the coming weeks through Grand Bend Stirling Sands Vineyards’ Facebook and Instagram accounts.
About Cowbell Brewing Co.
Cowbell Brewing Co. is Canada’s destination craft beverage company, recognized for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and exceptional guest experiences. Located in Blyth, Cowbell produces a diverse portfolio of award-winning Cowbell craft beers and ciders, HiJinx ready-to-drink seltzers and cocktails, and Twelve Apostles spirits and canned cocktails. In addition to its state-of-the-art production facility, Cowbell features a family-friendly restaurant, retail store, and entertainment spaces that welcome guests from across Ontario. Cowbell products are available province-wide through the LCBO, grocery and convenience stores, and The Beer Store.
Media Contact
Ally Anderson
Director, Partnerships & Experiences
E: aanderson@cowbellbrewing.com
C: (519) 955-0043