Bring a little aloha to your life. Just another reason to love Maui. Maui Wine is located in upcountry next to the Ulupalakua Ranch. Love their logo!
The few people (locals included) who know of Maui Wines believe that they produce only pineapple wine. First of all, as tasty as I am sure that is, I am just not in to fruit wines. But here is actually what makes Maui Wine special.
The volcanic soil of the vineyards grow 6 varietals – 3 reds Syrah, Malbec and Grenache, and 3 white – Gewürztraminer, Chenin Blanc and Viognier. The horticulture story of the vineyards is in itself a fascinating story and I would recommend checking out this video link to find out more https://mauiwine.com/#play
Their small production Estate Wines – Ulupalakua labelled – are made 100% of Maui grapes. I tried the Chenin Blanc, the Syrah, Grenache, Malbec.
This is the 2014 Maui Wine Syrah- my personal favourite. The winemakers fondly nicknamed this their Hurricane Wine. When the major hurricane hit Maui in 2014 the vineyards were almost completely destroyed. The winery called out to the community for support and the locals helped to pick the grapes off the ground, clean up, and save the vineyards. The Syrah survived and became one of the best bottles. It gives a wonderful taste of fruit forward raspberries, rhubarb, figs, tobacco- it is minerally and spicy. The Tasting notes on this wine are so interesting stating this wine is “rare without question. It carries the essence of a single mountain that pushes like a miracle from the centre of the Pacific Ocean. It’s layers of flavour, uniqueness and complexities are designed by Haleakala.” The story also states “the Syrah is kind of a big deal in the Maui vineyard being the oldest, most successful and clever of all the other varietals.” Apparently 2016 was also a good year.
I love this quote from a spokesperson for Maui Wines – “Who wants a wine that’s just fruity you want a wine that takes you somewhere.”
Steeped in history.
A Wine Tasting in the Old Jail is a must. Formerly Captain James Makee’s administration office, a cellar was discovered in the stone building. The winery claims it was used as a drunk tank for those who indulged at the lavish parties held in the day on the ranch, but with no light, or air, and shackles found hanging in the walls, I think something a little more sinister was going on. Plus the guy had many attempts on his life, and 6 beautiful, high society daughters – say no more.
Formerly called Rose Ranch, it was also the vacation home of the last reigning King of Hawaii – King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. There are fascinating stories on the walls in the tasting room which was once the King’s chamber.
Not wine related but certainly mouth-watering – The Ulupalakua Ranch Store & Grill right across the street serves the most delicious elk, venison and beef burgers (locally raised). We met the daughter of the woman who runs the Ranch (how awesome is that!) and yes there is an elk farm on Maui – another super cool fact. Oh, and Oprah lives down the road!
My Wine Playlist 