Tedeschi Winery, Maui's only vineyard and one of two in the state, is located 2,000 feet up the slopes of Haleakala. Its vineyards, established in 1974, are located on 'Ulupalakua Ranch, a 20,000-acre cattle ranch where cowboys still herd cattle on horseback. This is Upcountry, where the mornings and late afternoons are cool, a place not at all like the coastal areas far below.
Also referred to as Maui's Winery, Tedeschi Vineyards offers a wide selection of locally made wines that are available for tasting and purchase in the King's Cottage Tasting Room. The cottage dates back to 1874, when it was built for King Kalakaua and his wife Queen Kapiolani, who were frequent visitors at the ranch. Known as the "Merrie Monarch," the king played a major role in reviving hula. The Tasting Room is adjoined by a small history room that offers a fascinating glimpse of the property's royal past.
The centerpiece of the Tasting Room is an 18-foot-long bar cut from the trunk of a single mango tree. Shelves are stocked with Hawaiian-made products and specialty foods and gifts. Here you can sample Tedeshi's collection of tropical wines and, if you wish, you can enjoy a picnic at a table set beneath the winery's 100-year-old trees.
Tedeschi Vineyards introduced its first wine in 1977. Called Maui Blanc, it is a pineapple wine made from Hawaii's "golden fruit." Maui Brut, the winery's first grape wine, received national recognition when it was served at the inauguration of President Ronald Reagan. The winery also offers other red, white, and sparkling pineapple and grape wines, as well as a specialty raspberry dessert wine.
To get to the winery from Central Maui, take Hana Highway (Rte. 36) to Haleakala Highway (Rte. 37). Heading up the mountain, stay on 37 all the way to the community of Keokea. Drive past the Henry Fong Store on the right and continue on the narrow road 5.1 miles to 'Ulupalakua. The winery is just past the 'Ulupalakua Ranch Store. The King's Cottage Tasting Room is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (expect for major holidays). A complimentary tour of the grounds and winery operation is offered each day at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.