Dark Horse Vineyard

Tucked away off Wilderness Road far beyond the stone wall, two magnificent, newly constructed black caviar barns cut a dramatic shape in 25 acres of immaculate vines, paddocks and beautifully manicured lawns. It’s no wonder this exclusive estate is known as the Dark Horse of the Hunter. With Dark Horse, you have the best of both worlds – you have your own private country estate with high end finishes more commonly found in the city.

On the property you’ll discover The Stables — a custom-built all-weather American style event venue that comfortably hosts up to 170 guests. And The Barnhouse — a homestead that sleeps six and makes a luxurious retreat and entertainment space that exudes equestrian charm.

The 7.5 acres of actual vineyard was first planted in the 1960’s. The grapes are still harvested today and passed on to an award-winning winemaker to produce Semillon and Chardonnay.

The location itself is private and peaceful yet it’s very much in the heart of the Hunter, pleasing wine lovers and foodies alike with spectacular vineyards, breweries, restaurants and cafes all nearby.

There are plenty of places to relax too — the golf course, spas, the Hunter Valley Gardens. As well as feel exhilarated — take off in a helicopter, warbird or hot air balloon. All this, so close to Sydney makes it the perfect location for a destination event.
The entire estate, with all its acreage, amenities, luxe features and opulent detail, is exclusively yours over the two days of your celebrations.

The Stables at a glance:

Exclusive use of the entire property on 25 acres
Two-nights accommodation in The Barnhouse included (sleeps 6)
All-weather event venue
Fully air-conditioned and heated with triple insulated walls
Beautifully styled Stables and Barnhouse with luxe finishes, prints on the walls and shelves filled with decorative curiosities that add personality and charm.
Multiple on-sight ceremony and photograph locations
Crushed granite paths paving the way from Barnhouse to Stables
Seats up to 170 guests comfortably, with a permanent dance floor
Venue partnership with Fennel and Co. catering
BYO alcohol allowed
External fairy lights and uplighting in all the trees
100 white wooden folding ceremony chairs
Handmade timber dining tables for up to 150 (BYO dining chairs to suit your style)

We would love to hear from you and arrange a private inspection!

The previous owners of Dark Horse fit a magnificent job in producing the two beautiful buildings on the property. They designed such a high end result with no expense spared. In early 2021, The Orth and Beesley families proudly purchased Dark Horse.

Lara Beesley brings a huge amount of wedding and event experience through her business Honey Lane, and the Orth family has a long history in construction and property management making it a match made in heaven. They also happen to be great mates. Perfect!

We are so grateful now call this divine property our own and even though she is perfect as is, we have some pretty exciting plans in place which we can’t wait to share with you!

We look forward to meeting you and showing you through this glorious property.