Maui’s Tedeschi Winery is a Must for Wine Lovers

Nestled high on the slopes of Haleakala sits Maui’s only commercial winery. Since 1974, the Tedeschi Winery has been creating some of the most delectable and refreshing wines this side of Napa Valley. They grow their own grapes here. The volcanic soil on the slope is remarkably fertile. And they use the famously sweet and delicious local Haliimale Pineapple in their pineapple wines. It is Hawaii after all!

Initially, the winery didn’t set out to become the premier producer of pineapple wines. While waiting for their first batch of grapes to arrive, they did a little experimenting with some of the local pineapple. The result was a sparkling pineapple wine that became a hit with the public. Then, they perfected the still pineapple wine process and released the ever popular Maui Blanc. The winery’s 1st grape based wine was produced in 1984. Today, the winery produces thousands of cases of wine that is sold on the islands and the mainland.

Visitors are invited to tour the winery and enjoy a free wine tasting in the “Merrie Monarch” cottage. The grounds are filled with history. King Kalakaua and Queen Kapi’olani fell in love with the area and had the “Merrie Monarch” guest cottage built. Robert Louis Stevenson and General George S. Patton visited the area too. Free guided tours provide visitors a chance to learn about the area’s unique history and peak inside an actual working winery. Then, it’s off to taste up to 3 of their delicious wines. You have to try at least one of their pineapple wines – they are delicious, crisp, and not too acidic. Our favorite is the Maui Blanc. Their Ulupalakua Red is fantastic too!

So, take a break from Maui’s sun-drenched golden beaches and enjoy one of the island’s most beautiful drives to the Tedeschi Winery. Not only will you see breathtaking views of Maui, but you’ll probably bring back a bottle or two of Maui Blanc.

For more details and directions, visit www.mauiwine.com

To plan your perfect Maui vacation, purchase our Maui Pocket Travel Guide. Inside you’ll find complete itineraries, including one for Haleakala’s Upcountry, a tour of Maui’s beaches and golf courses, along with local dining and accommodation recommendations! Have a Kindle, IPhone, or IPad? Then, purchase our guide directly from the Kindle Store: www.amazon.com/dp/B005G0JJA6. Or purchase the PDF version from our website: www.greatamericanvacationideas.com/Hawaii.html