Sven, our miniature horse lives here at the winery. When you stop in at our tasting room, be sure to take a stroll out back to visit him, he loves to see all the visitors!
DOOBIE
Doobie Inspired Winemaking
Doobie, the most famous donkey in the Finger Lakes, lived here at Swedish Hill for nearly 37 years. Sadly, he passed away on July 8, 2024, but his legacy lives on here at the winery. We believe that Doobie was approximately 39 years old at the time of his passing.
For decads visitors to the winery got to know Doobie. Many brought their children, who instantly bonded with him and many of them came back as adults to renew their acquaintance with Doobie as well. Doobie was as friendly and gentle as any donkey could be. He was loved even more by our family and our employees, and he was a part of all our lives. Doobie’s legacy lives on through our memories as well as through the wines that he inspired us to make, including Doobie Blues, Jack Ass Red and White, Smart Ass Red and Sangria Smash. We hope that those of you who met him will remember him for his fun and upbeat personality. We also hope that when you visit us that you get to know our miniature horse and Doobie’s loyal friend, Sven who loves to meet new friends just as much as Doobie did.
meet sven
Sven's Story
Sven is a cross between a miniature horse and a pony. He was born in 2016 and came to Swedish Hill when he was just a year old. He was named after the reindeer in the Disney movie Frozen by his first owner, but it is very fitting (and ironic) that he would be adopted by us at Swedish Hill.
Sven is a common Swedish name, and we have 3 “Svenska” wines that we have produced for 30+ years with a horse on the label. Sven is curious and mischievous, but he loves to make new friends, humans and animal alike!
While he is generally friendly and gentle, as with any animals, please use caution when you interact with him. If he smells food on your hands or thinks you may have a treat, he may nip your fingers if you put them near his mouth.
