Mai tai, tropical itch, pina colada and even beer from Maui Brewing Co. are libations that come to mind when on the island of Maui. But wine?
In Ulupalakua, on the slope of dormant Haleakala Volcano on the southeastern side of the island, and perched 3,000 feet above sea level, is MauiWine, a 23-acre vineyard, winery and tasting room.
Something that does seem natural in Hawaii is pineapple. So in addition to making traditional wine varietals like syrah, malbec and chenin blanc, MauiWine also makes pineapple wine from Maui Gold pineapples. The winery began growing grapes in 1974, and while waiting for the grapes to mature, the wine makers decided to use the local crop to make wine from pineapples. Although it started as a temporary experiment, today there are three types of pineapple wine, including a sparkling variety made in the traditional champagne-method process.
Adjacent to the production room are the tasting rooms: The King’s Cottage, The Pavilion and The Old Jail. Groups can use these spaces for private tastings, tours, winemaking seminars or events.
The King’s Cottage, built in 1856 as a guest cottage of King David Kalakaua, the last reigning king of Hawaii, today serves as the main tasting room, while the Old Jail, built in the 1880s and which was once the main business office of Capt. Makee, the whaling captain who built the plantation estate, can accommodate 10 people for an intimate tasting experience. The Pavilion is an indoor and outdoor venue that can accommodate up to 200 guests and is ideal for banquets or receptions. For larger groups, the Upper Grounds, an outdoor area with covered space, can hold 300 people.
For a true winery experience, groups of 100 can enjoy the 360-degree views of Maui in the middle of the Ulupalakua Vineyards. All venues on-property, both indoor and outdoor, have Wi-Fi, audiovisual equipment and catering available.