Ulupalakua Vineyards isn’t just a winery – it’s a portal to Maui’s vibrant past. Nestled on the slopes of Haleakala, the dormant volcano that dominates the island, this haven for wine lovers boasts a history as rich and complex as the flavors it produces. The story here begins in the mid-1800s, when the land was gifted to the Baldwin Family as Rose Ranch.
Fast forward to 1974, and a new chapter unfolds. C. Pardee Erdman, owner of the land that has now been renamed Ulupalakua Ranch, envisioned a unique venture: a vineyard on a tropical island. Partnering with Napa Valley winemaker Emil Tedeschi, they embarked on a daring experiment, defying expectations and embracing the land’s potential. The historic buildings of Rose Ranch found new life – the old dairy now houses the winery’s lab and bottling room, while the weathered stone facade of the former jail serves as a private tasting room. Each sip becomes a conversation with the past, a delightful reminder of the estate’s evolution.
But Maui Wine’s story doesn’t stop there. Holding the distinction of being the only winery on the island of Maui, they turned to Maui’s other agricultural treasure: the pineapple. Pioneering spirit led them to craft sparkling pineapple wine, a first for Hawaii. This innovation not only filled the gap while the grapes matured but also established a legacy of embracing local ingredients.
Their dedication to quality even garnered national recognition. In a remarkable twist, one of their early creations, the Maui Brut, Blanc de Noir, was served during a White House dinner – a testament to the unique flavors born from Maui’s volcanic soil and sunny skies.
Today, Maui Wine stands as a testament to agricultural ingenuity and a deep respect for history. As you explore the grounds and savor their unique wines, raise a glass to the visionaries who dared to dream of vineyards on volcanic slopes, transformed a historic estate into a beloved island destination, and became the sole standard-bearer for Maui’s winemaking legacy.
About Maui Wine at Ulupalakua Vineyards
Location
Upcountry Maui
Tasting Fee
$15 per person
Sustainability
Traditional sustainable practices, water conservation
Accessibility
Step free, paved surfaces from the parking lot to the tasting area
In Three Words…
historic, scenic, unexpected
Our Visit to Maui Wine at Ulupalakua Vineyards
While many picture paradise as endless sunshine and sandy beaches, there’s something magical about Upcountry Maui’s cooler, cloud-kissed air. That’s exactly what we discovered during our visit to Maui Wine—a refreshing departure from the usual island itinerary.
Arriving at the vineyard felt like stepping into a storybook. Towering ancient trees framed the entrance, their branches swaying gently in the breeze. We were greeted warmly by a hostess who, upon learning we hadn’t made reservations, assured us it wasn’t a problem. She handed us a map of the grounds and encouraged us to explore while waiting for our tasting table.
Wandering through the gardens, we found ourselves enchanted by the history of the place. The weathered stone jailhouse, now a private tasting room, stood as a reminder of the land’s storied past. The air was thick with the scent of blooming flowers, and every turn revealed another stunning view—rolling green hills, the sparkling south shore, and the vast expanse of Maui’s countryside.
As we strolled, clouds began to gather, casting a soft, diffused light over the landscape. It was the kind of quiet, serene moment you only find in places like this. Just as we were starting to lose ourselves in the scenery, our phones buzzed with the awaited text: our table was ready.
Inside the tasting room, we were handed detailed tasting sheets and invited to explore at our own pace. We started with the traditional flight, savoring the Ulupalakua Estate Chenin Blanc. Crisp and refreshing, it mirrored the elegance of the vineyard itself. The subtle notes of tropical fruit and minerality were a perfect complement to the view outside the windows.
Then came the sparkling flight, and with it, the star of the day: Hula o Maui. Made from Maui’s iconic pineapples, this sparkling wine was a revelation. Its vibrant aromas, effervescent bubbles, and just-right sweetness instantly transported us to the island’s sunniest moments. It was playful yet sophisticated—the kind of wine that makes you smile with every sip.
The tasting wasn’t rushed, and the self-guided format gave us the freedom to linger over our favorites, chat with staff, and soak in the unique ambiance of the winery. As the afternoon stretched on, it became clear that Maui Wine is more than a place to drink great wine—it’s a space to slow down, connect with the island’s history, and savor the moment.
The TLDR
Maui Wine at Ulupalakua Vineyards is a peaceful escape in Upcountry Maui. From wandering the historic grounds to sipping on their signature sparkling pineapple wine, it’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and appreciate the unique beauty of the island. If you’re looking for a break from the beach (or weathering out a rainy day), this is it.
Planning your own Maui adventure? Don’t miss my full guide to the island!
