With towering, timber-frame construction and a green roof with cupolas designed to evoke Churchill Downs, Elk Creek Vineyards in Owenton, Kentucky, was built to elicit oohs and aahs.
And it does. From its massive, three-story stone hearth to its polished wood beams stretching up to vaulted ceilings, the architectural styling of Kentucky’s largest winery rivals that found in Napa Valley. The view is pretty spectacular, too. Established in 2003, Elk Creek’s rural property (an hour’s drive from Lexington and Louisville) consists of 200 acres, 30 of which are planted with grapes. Guests staying at the elegantly rustic Elk Creek Lodge, Clubhouse or new Elk Creek Inn are treated to sweeping views of those vineyards and a lake, as well as amenities such as a full breakfast and a recreation room with a fireplace, pool table and bar. Overnighters looking for rejuvenation to go along with their reisling find plenty on Elk Creek’s massage menu, which features a hot stone therapy treatment and soothing Swedish massage.
Ben O’Daniel, a second-generation Kentucky winemaker, created a menu of wines that includes 16 varietals, many of them award-winners: Sweet Owen Red, “Crazy Elk” Red Table Wine, Niagara White and the Chardonnay-Artist Conservation Series, which showcases the artwork of wildlife artist John Ruthven on its label.
Elk Creek’s gift shop includes culinary arts items, and the property’s gourmet deli cafe — featuring meals such as the Napa Veggie Combo and Sonoma Salad — play up California wine country comparisons. Visitors can enjoy tastings, winemaking tours and special events, including gallery showings of regional artists, cooking classes, wine dinners and musical entertainment, such as Sara Evans in concert on September 27 on the Elk Creek Outdoor Stage. Or, simply sit, sample and savor.