Sure, Napa Valley, Bordeaux, and Tuscany claim the spotlight—but don’t overlook Maui’s Valley Isle. If you’re in Kihei, Wailea or Makena this summer, plan a visit to MauiWine (aka Tedeschi Winery) at the historic Ulupalakua Ranch, the only commercial winery on Maui.
Expect stunning hillside views, rich Hawaiian heritage, and award‑winning pours, all under the legendary King Kalākaua’s “Royal” roof. Check out their historic walking tour.
About MauiWine (aka Maui’s Winery)
MauiWine is Hawaii’s oldest winery, founded in 1974 and perched on the slopes of Haleakalā in Upcountry Maui. It’s located at 14815 Pi‘ilani Highway in Kula, where cool breezes, rolling pastures, and eucalyptus-lined roads set the scene. The tasting room is inside the King’s Cottage, originally built in the 1870s to host King Kalākaua. It’s a warm, welcoming space, and the winery also offers a self-guided walking tour of the estate’s historical features.
What’s Available Now
The winery is open Tuesday through Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm. Walk-ins are welcome based on space, but reservations are a smart move, especially in the busy summer season.
Visitors can choose from a variety of experiences. The King’s Cottage tasting offers à la carte flights ($12–25) and wines by the glass ($7–20), plus a small menu of light bites. On Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:15 am, you can opt for a guided Historical Walking Tour that includes a tasting flight ($45 per person). For a deeper dive, The Tasting Table experience is offered Thursdays at 1 pm, an intimate, two-hour seated tasting of four wines paired with food, priced at $115 per guest including gratuity.
The Wine Line-Up
MauiWine is known for its unique use of 100% Maui Gold pineapples in several of its best-selling wines. Maui Blanc is an off-dry option with crisp tropical and lavender notes, while Maui Splash is sweet and playful, infused with passionfruit hints. Hula O’ Maui, a sparkling brut, blends pineapple and citrus zest with a dry finish and has won awards, including a gold medal at the LA International Wine Competition.
Their estate-grown grape wines include a white blend featuring Viognier, Muscat, and Chardonnay with flavors of honeysuckle, pomelo, and nectarine. The red blend combines Syrah, Merlot, and Malbec for a balance of fresh berries, vanilla, and spice. There’s also a Hawaiian Sparkling Rosé with floral, citrus, and almond notes, and the Framboise raspberry dessert wine is a lush final pour with a long, fruit-forward finish.
Why It’s Worth the Scenic Drive
In 2021, Ulupalakua earned recognition as its own American Viticultural Area (AVA), a nod to its unique elevation, climate, and volcanic soil. MauiWine’s vineyard spans 23 acres and includes Syrah, Malbec, Grenache, Viognier, Chenin Blanc, and Gewürztraminer, all cultivated on slopes with sweeping views of Maui’s southern coastline.
The experience is more than just wine. You’ll drive through eucalyptus groves and past blooming jacaranda trees, see ranch animals grazing in open fields, and step into a historic estate where Hawaii’s past meets present.
Planning Your Visit
Drive time: allow extra time from Kihei/Wailea, roads climb into Upcountry
Dress: layers recommended; look out for chilly afternoons
Transport: ride‑share drop‑off possible, but pick‑up not guaranteed, plan ahead
