MauiWine began in 1974, fueled by the vision and passion for agriculture of C. Pardee Erdman, owner of ʻUlupalakua Ranch. As a lover of wine and proponent of agriculture, Erdman established a vineyard on our tropical island and the slopes of a dormant volcano.
While waiting for the grapes to mature, sparkling wine was made from the plentiful pineapples on Maui. A scant amount of this wine was produced, but the public response to the wine was so positive that it was decided to pursue the endeavor of making a still pineapple wine. The now-famous Maui Blanc was introduced in 1977. It became an instant hit with both locals and visitors who loved its fruity flavor and clear value as a unique Maui gift.
Initially in the vineyard, the Carnelian grape was chosen for its hardy diversity, as it has been able to produce a sparkling white, a rosé, and red wine. The use of this one grape allowed the creation of a variety of wines, including award-winning sparkling wines. The Maui Brut, Blanc de Noir, released in 1984, for example, received national recognition when it was served at the inauguration of President Reagan. Today, MauiWine, is the only winery in Hawaii that produces sparkling wines.
In 1990, Paula Hegele was hired to assist. In 1992, she was named General Manager of the winery and in 1995, President. She brings the energy, vision, and inspiration to the company which drives it into the future. Under her leadership, we have continued to refine our products and expand distribution around the globe. We continue to develop the guest experience through tours, tastings, and events, while keeping a focus on agriculture, hospitality, and community connections.
Today, we farm 23 acres of south-facing Maui countryside, at an elevation of 1,700-1,850 feet, cultivating 6 grape varietals: Syrah, Malbec, Grenache, Chenin Blanc, Viognier, and Gewurztraminer. Our cellar, winemaking facilities, and tasting rooms are housed in historical buildings, refitted from the former Rose Ranch estate.
We believe that wines are grown, not made. We remain true to the distinct combination of volcanic soil and climate conditions found in our island vineyard. Meticulous care, innovation, experimentation, and personal passion come together to create great wines with flavors that are unmistakably Maui. The pineapple wines we craft showcase the unparalleled taste of the Maui Gold variety. The wines we make embody the distinct climate and growing conditions that make this place beautiful and challenging.
Visiting our winery is a cultural experience. A window to the ʻUlupalakua Ranch way of life and a glimpse of Maui's past. As you arrive at MauiWine, you’ll walk the path past the lawn where King Kalākaua re-embraced the tradition of hula. You can meander under the same trees that would have greeted honored guests 150 years ago. Come visit, take in the crisp mountain air, feel our warm sense of hospitality and aloha.
The Team
Paula Hegele
PRESIDENT - 34 years at MauiWine
Joe Hegele
OPERATIONS - 11 years at MauiWine
Micah Mossman
PRODUCTION - 7 years at MauiWine
Keone Labuanan
CELLAR - 12 years at MauiWine
Henry Hegele
WINE - 6 years at MauiWine
Colin Hegele
EQUIPMENT - 2 years at MauiWine
Kelan Joshua
ENOLOGY - 6 years at MauiWine
Lindsey Hegele
GUEST EXPERIENCE - 6 years at MauiWine