How to Wine Taste in Maui, Hawaii

Vineyards can be found just about everywhere, even on the islands of Hawaii. While it is generally assumed that wine is made from grapes, at the Ulupalakau Ranch, home to the Tedeschi Winery, vintners make wine using pineapples, berries, grapes and an assortment of tropical fruits. The wine is categorized in four groups: reds, whites, sparkling and specialty. From sweet and light, to full-bodied and rich, these wines are worth a visit to upcountry Maui where you can tour the grounds and winemaking facilities compliments of the ranch. After the tour, visit the Tasting Room to sample some of the wine offerings. Remember when tasting to always taste white before red and light before full-bodied.

Instructions

How to Wine Taste in Maui, Hawaii

1. Wine is meant to be drunk with food. Paired with the appropriate light snack, like chips or nuts, usually offered at the tasting, a wine’s flavor will be enhanced.

2. Start with the Hula O Maui sparkling wine. Sparkling wines, like champagne, are palate cleansers. You’ll notice the pineapple fragrance when the cork is popped. A salty dish is a nice touch.

3. Maui Blanc is a semi-dry white wine made from the juice of the pineapple. Perfect when paired with spicy foods, you will enjoy the subtle lingering pineapple finish.

4. Next, try the Maui Splash, a sweet white wine perfect with cheeses and creamy sauces. Pay particular attention to the fruity citrus notes.

5. Taste the Ulupalakua Red, which is made of a cabernet blend with berry notes. This red compliments meat dishes, barbeques and luaus.

6. For the piece de resistance, taste Framboise de Maui – raspberry wine. Made from raspberries, pure cane sugar and grapes, it’s a bold, full-bodied red perfect for dessert dishes like ice cream and chocolate.