Hawaii is known for its stunning landscapes and unique culture, but it also offers some remarkable experiences for wine enthusiasts. Visitors can explore various vineyards scattered across the islands, each with its own charm and unique flavors. From the lush slopes of Maui to the scenic vistas of the Big Island, these vineyards provide a taste of paradise in every glass.
Wine lovers will find a variety of options, from traditional grape wines to innovative blends incorporating local fruits. Whether a seasoned connoisseur or a curious traveler, exploring the vineyards of Hawaii promises an unforgettable adventure. This guide to the best vineyards in Hawaii highlights the top places to enjoy these tropical wines.
1) Mauna Kea Vineyards
Mauna Kea Vineyards is a hidden gem on the Big Island of Hawaii. Located amidst the picturesque landscapes, this vineyard offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts.
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the towering Mauna Kea while sipping on exclusive wines. The cool mountain air and rich volcanic soil make it an ideal location for growing grapes.
Wine tours are available for those interested in learning about the winemaking process. Guests can see the vineyards, taste samples, and even purchase a bottle or two to take home.
Mauna Kea Vineyards stands out not just for its location but also for the quality of its wines. They carefully select and blend the best grapes to create exceptional flavors.
The vineyard is also known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices. This dedication ensures that their wines are not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.
A visit to Mauna Kea Vineyards can include a guided tour, wine tasting, and a picnic with views of the majestic Mauna Kea. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.
For more information on this beautiful location, check out Mauna Kea Summit.
The combination of natural beauty and exquisite wine makes Mauna Kea Vineyards a must-visit destination in Hawaii.
2) Volcano Vineyards
Volcano Vineyards offers a unique wine tasting experience in Hawaii. Located on the Big Island, near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this vineyard combines the volcanic soil with local fruits to create one-of-a-kind blends.
Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting at Volcano Winery, where the tasting room is open daily from 12:00 pm to 5:30 pm. For $20, guests can sample seven different wines, including 100% grape wines, fruit blends, and honey meads.
The vineyard’s wine offerings are diverse. They feature mostly blends of local grapes and tropical fruits, along with a few special grape varieties. This results in a tasting experience that reflects both the island’s climate and culture.
At Volcano Winery, no appointment is necessary. They organize tastings 364 days a year, only closing on Christmas Day. This makes it convenient for tourists to drop by anytime during their visit to the Big Island.
Volcano Vineyards carefully balances tradition and creativity. Their skilled staff enjoys sharing the vibrant history and process behind each wine, making it a must-visit for both wine enthusiasts and casual travelers.
Experience the charm and rich flavors of Hawaii at Volcano Vineyards. Their offerings extend beyond wine, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful surroundings and enjoy an afternoon in paradise.
3) Oeno Winemaking
Oeno Winemaking, located in Kailua, is Oahu’s only winery. It prides itself on making 100% natural wines using imported ingredients from top grape-producing regions worldwide.
The winery offers a unique, hands-on experience. Visitors can select their own ingredients and create personalized bottles of wine. Additionally, guests can design custom labels, making each bottle special.
Founded in 1996 by Marshall and later managed by Greg and Lindsey, Oeno Winemaking combines the Aloha Spirit with winemaking expertise. They use an Italian technique to produce wines with little to no sulfite preservatives and a shorter aging process.
For those interested in exploring, they also offer wine-tasting tours, providing a deeper appreciation of their wine.
Visiting Oeno Winemaking guarantees a memorable experience, blending local Hawaiian charm with the art of winemaking. Find more details on Tripadvisor.
4) Volcano Winery
Volcano Winery is situated at 4,000 feet on the windward side of Hawai’i Island. It offers a unique wine-tasting experience with stunning views close to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The winery is open daily from 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Visitors can enjoy a classic wine tasting that includes seven 1-ounce pours. The wines range from dry to sweet.
Volcano Winery features 100% grape wines, fruit blends, and honey meads. Their fruit blends are particularly popular and reflect the tropical flavors of the island.
No appointment is necessary for tastings, which cost $10 or $20 depending on the wine selection. The winery also organizes special tasting events throughout the year, making each visit unique.
Their wines are available in physical stores on the Hawaiian Islands and can also be purchased online. This makes it easy to enjoy Volcano Winery’s unique offerings wherever you are.
The winery’s high elevation sees winter temperatures drop to around 38 degrees, ideal for the vines. Rainfall here is about 70 inches annually, mostly in winter, balancing the growing conditions perfectly.
Volcano Winery’s location near the slopes of Mauna Loa offers both a perfect growing environment and a scenic setting for visitors. It’s a must-visit for wine enthusiasts exploring Hawaii.
5) Ulupalakua Ranch
Ulupalakua Ranch, located on the eastern slope of the Haleakala volcano, is a picturesque spot on Maui. The ranch sits at almost 2000 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking views and a crisp, refreshing climate.
MauiWine, the vineyard at Ulupalakua Ranch, is well-known for its unique wines made from both grapes and local fruits. Visitors can experience a variety of wines such as Maui Blanc and Maui Splash, both made from pineapples.
The tasting room at MauiWine is open from 11 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Sunday. It’s a great chance to sample their diverse selection, including Syrah 2012, Rose 2014, and Lokelani Sparkling.
Aside from wine tasting, Ulupalakua Ranch also offers a grill on the porch serving local grass-fed burgers made from beef, elk, venison, and lamb. This adds a delightful culinary experience to your visit.
The vineyards are planted on mineral-rich, volcanic soils, which contribute to the unique flavors of the wines produced here. This distinctive terroir makes Ulupalakua Ranch a must-visit for both wine lovers and nature enthusiasts.
For more information, check out Ulupalakua Ranch or Maui Wine.
6) MauiWine
Located in Kula, MauiWine offers a unique tasting experience. This vineyard is set on the slopes of Haleakala, providing stunning views. Visitors can enjoy estate-grown wines and pineapple wines. The vineyard opened in 1974 and has since become famous for its traditional method sparkling wines.
The tasting room, open from Tuesday to Sunday, welcomes guests to savor wine flights, wines by the glass, and even wine cocktails. The King’s Cottage provides a cozy setting for these tastings. Those interested can navigate to their location using Google Maps or Apple Maps.
Surrounded by tall trees and tropical flowers, the vineyard’s grounds are beautiful and serene. Visitors can explore the lush landscape while enjoying a glass of wine. For those traveling from Central Maui, MauiWine can be accessed via the Haleakala Highway (Route 37).
MauiWine’s setting at 2,000 feet above sea level adds to the charm of the visit. The vineyard’s unique location and diverse wines make it a must-visit spot in Maui. Learn more about their offerings on their official website.
7) Hoʻomaka Farms
Hoʻomaka Farms, nestled in the heart of Hawaii, offers a unique wine tasting experience. This vineyard is known for its beautiful landscape and lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views while sipping on some of the finest wines Hawaii has to offer.
The vineyard specializes in tropical fruit wines, which set it apart from other wineries. They use locally grown fruits like pineapple and mango. These wines capture the essence of the island, making every sip a true delight.
Hoʻomaka Farms also takes pride in its sustainable farming practices. They use eco-friendly methods to maintain their vineyards, ensuring that they are both bountiful and environmentally conscious.
When visiting Hoʻomaka Farms, guests can enjoy guided tours that provide an in-depth look at the wine-making process. The tours are both entertaining and educational, perfect for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
The wine tasting area is designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Guests can sample a variety of wines, each with its own unique flavor profile. Friendly staff are always on hand to answer questions and offer recommendations.
For more details, visit the Ho‘omaka Farms guide.
8) Villa CA’Oro
Villa CA’Oro, located on the lush island of Oahu, is a gem for wine enthusiasts. Visitors are greeted with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and rolling vineyards. The scenery alone makes this destination worth the trip.
Villa CA’Oro is known for its unique wine blends. They specialize in creating wines that reflect the tropical environment of Hawaii. The vineyard uses locally grown fruits and traditional grape varieties to craft their signature flavors.
The tasting experience at Villa CA’Oro is truly one-of-a-kind. Guests can enjoy wine tastings in an open-air pavilion, offering a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share stories about the vineyard’s history and their winemaking process.
A tour of Villa CA’Oro includes a walk through their beautiful vineyards. Visitors learn about the different grape varieties and the sustainable practices employed in cultivating them. This vineyard prides itself on being environmentally friendly, making efforts to protect the land and promote biodiversity.
For those looking to buy a piece of the experience, Villa CA’Oro offers a variety of wines for purchase. Each bottle is a perfect souvenir of your visit. Whether you are a seasoned wine aficionado or a casual taster, Villa CA’Oro delivers an enjoyable and unforgettable experience.
9) Island Style Wines
Island Style Wines is a unique winery on the island of Oahu. Known for its vibrant and natural European-style wines, this winery offers something special. The owner, Marshall J. Zeigler, brings years of experience from working in the food and beverage industry in Las Vegas.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of wine tasting experiences here. Their most notable product is the Beaujolais Nouveau Wine. This wine is famous for its fresh and fruity flavor, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The atmosphere at Island Style Wines is very welcoming. The winery provides a relaxed environment where guests can learn about the wine-making process. Marshall and his team are always happy to share their passion and knowledge about wine.
For those looking to visit, Island Style Wines offers tours of their facilities. These tours allow guests to see firsthand how their wines are produced. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newbie, a visit to Island Style Wines will be a memorable experience.
To learn more about their offerings, check out their page on Oeno Winemaking. This destination is a must-see for anyone visiting Oahu and interested in exploring local wines.
10) Ola Brew Co.
Ola Brew Co. in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, is not just a brewery; it’s a community hub. This establishment boasts a wide array of beverages, from brews to seltzers, ciders, teas, and energy shots.
Located at 74-5598 Luhia St, its newly renovated kitchen offers an assortment of delicious dishes, including smash burgers and chicken wings. There’s something tasty for the whole family.
Ola Brew Co. is committed to sustainability and local sourcing. They support Hawaii’s agricultural economy by incorporating locally sourced ingredients into their products.
The brewery is also known for its award-winning creations. This includes their foray into unique Hawaiian spirits, setting them apart in the market.
If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check their events schedule. They often host community gatherings and educational talks, such as large whale entanglement response discussions with specialists.
For more details, visit their website.
History of Winemaking in Hawaii
Hawaii’s winemaking history is rich and varied, from early attempts in the 19th century to modern-day success. Early efforts saw varied results, while more recent endeavors have led to the growth of a unique wine culture on the islands.
Early Beginnings
Hawaii’s winemaking journey dates back to the 19th century. In the 1850s and 1860s, grapes were planted on Maui’s slopes, particularly around the area now known as MauiWine. This early cultivation laid the groundwork but didn’t immediately lead to commercial success.
By the 1960s, efforts to produce wine gained traction when pioneers like Joseph Carrara and Colin McCormick founded the Volcano Winery on the Big Island. They wisely chose the fertile volcanic soil of Mauna Loa’s slopes for their vineyards. The unique climate and soil composition played a critical role in nurturing the vines, establishing a foundation for the industry.
Modern Developments
In contemporary times, Hawaii’s winemaking has evolved substantially. MauiWine has become a prominent name, producing well-known varietals such as Syrah, Malbec, and Viognier. Located high on the slopes of the Haleakala Volcano, it benefits from an ideal climate and elevation.
In addition to MauiWine, the Big Island boasts the continued success of the Volcano Winery, still thriving with innovative blends and techniques. Another significant player is Oeno Winemaking on Oahu, showcasing the growing appeal of Hawaiian wines.
The cultivation techniques have also improved, with a focus on sustainable practices. Hawaii’s wineries often combine wine production with tourism, offering tours that highlight their rich history and unique growing conditions.
These developments have anchored Hawaiian wines in the global market, bringing more attention to the islands’ burgeoning industry.
Unique Varietals and Flavors
Hawaiian vineyards offer a variety of unique varietals and flavors that set them apart from other wine regions. From pineapple wines to tropical fruit blends and traditional grape varietals, there’s something to pique the interest of any wine lover.
Pineapple Wines
Pineapple wines are among Hawaii’s most distinctive offerings. These wines capture the tropical essence of the islands.
One standout is MauiWine’s Maui Blanc, made from 100% Maui-grown pineapples. The wine is fresh and vibrant, with a crisp finish that hints at citrus and tropical fruits.
Pineapple wines are often enjoyed chilled, making them perfect for warm island evenings. They can be paired with seafood dishes, light salads, or simply enjoyed on their own.
Key Characteristics:
- Made from locally grown pineapples
- Crisp, fruity flavors
- Best served chilled
Tropical Fruit Blends
In addition to pineapple wines, Hawaii produces a range of tropical fruit blends. These wines blend traditional grapes with tropical fruits like yellow guava and jaboticaba berries to create one-of-a-kind flavors.
For example, the Volcano Winery on the Big Island offers unique blends such as Volcano Red, featuring red grapes and berries, as well as Macadamia Nut Honey wine.
These blends often have a sweet, aromatic profile that pairs well with a variety of local dishes, from spicy foods to rich desserts.
Key Characteristics:
- Blend of grapes and tropical fruits
- Sweet and aromatic
- Versatile food pairings
Traditional Grape Varietals
Hawaii also cultivates traditional grape varietals, often influenced by the island’s unique climate and soil. Varieties like Chardonnay, Syrah, and Symphony are grown in vineyards such as MauiWine’s 23-acre estate.
These wines retain the classic characteristics of their varietals while incorporating a hint of the local terroir. The island’s volcanic soil and climate contribute to distinctive notes in the wine.
Traditional grape varietals from Hawaii often appeal to those who appreciate the familiar flavors of classic wines, but with a unique island twist.
Key Characteristics:
- Classic varietals with local influences
- Unique volcanic soil notes
- Appeals to traditional wine lovers
