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Aloha in a Bottle: The Spirit of Hawaii Captured by Volcano Winery

Tucked away on the lush slopes of Mauna Loa, within the town of Volcano, Hawaii, Volcano Winery is an extraordinary destination that combines the lush beauty of the Big Island with the art of winemaking. Located on the slopes of the Mauna Loa volcano, this boutique winery offers visitors a truly unique experience—where volcanic soil, tropical fruits, and the spirit of aloha blend to create exceptional wines and memories. Volcano Winery’s location sets it apart from traditional vineyards. Situated at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet, the vineyard is surrounded by a landscape shaped by ancient lava flows and lush rainforest. This dramatic setting not only makes it a feast for the eyes but also contributes to the unique terroir that influences the wines. The volcanic soil in this region is rich in minerals, providing an ideal environment for cultivating grapes and other fruits. The winery’s proximity to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park adds to its allure, making it a perfect stop for travelers exploring the island’s natural wonders. The journey of Volcano Winery began in 1986, when it was founded by a retired veterinarian with a passion for wine and a vision for something extraordinary. Today, it stands as a testament to innovation and tradition, producing wines that capture the essence of the islands. With a selection that ranges from the traditional Symphony and Pinot Noir to the exotic flavors of local fruits like guava and jaboticaba, each bottle tells a story of the land from which it comes. Visitors to Volcano Winery can indulge in a variety of experiences. From the classic wine tasting, which includes a range of dry to sweet wines, to the Kilauea Ki Tea Presentation, there's something for every palate. The winery also offers a glimpse into its operations with the Ali'i Vineyard Tour, providing an in-depth look at the vineyard and production room.

A Unique Blend of Grapes and Tropical Fruits

Volcano Winery is not just about traditional grape wines; it embraces Hawaii’s tropical bounty by crafting wines infused with locally grown fruits and teas. Their flagship offerings include a variety of grape-based wines, as well as blends featuring fruits like guava, passionfruit, and jaboticaba—a tropical fruit native to South America but grown locally in Hawaii. One standout is the Symphony Mele, a semi-sweet white wine made from Symphony grapes grown in California and locally sourced tropical fruits. Another popular choice is the Volcano White, which balances the tartness of guava with the smoothness of grapes for a refreshing island twist. For those seeking something different, Volcano Winery also produces tea-infused wines, such as the Infusion, which combines macadamia nut honey wine with black tea for a distinctly Hawaiian flavor.

A Commitment to Sustainability and Family

Volcano Winery is deeply committed to sustainable practices. The winery takes pride in supporting local agriculture by sourcing fruits and ingredients from nearby farmers. Their small-batch production methods minimize waste, and they actively work to preserve the surrounding environment. In addition to winemaking, the vineyard has expanded its offerings to include estate-grown teas, showcasing the versatility of Hawaii’s agricultural landscape. But what truly sets Volcano Winery apart is its commitment to the 'ohana, or family. This family-owned and operated business exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to relax and enjoy the "aloha." It's a place where you can sip wine while gazing out at the verdant estate, feeling the gentle Hawaiian breeze, and perhaps even witnessing the distant glow of lava flows.

 

The Wines

Volcano Winery’s grape wines begin with high-quality grapes sourced from local and California vineyards. The unique volcanic soil, rich in minerals, imparts a signature flavor profile that sets these wines apart.

     Symphony Dry: This crisp white wine is made from Symphony grapes, a hybrid of Muscat and Grenache Gris. It boasts floral aromas and delicate notes of peach and apricot, making it a refreshing choice for warm Hawaiian days.

     Volcano Red: A versatile red blend with bright cherry and berry notes. Its smooth, medium-bodied profile makes it a favorite for pairing with both local and classic cuisines.

Tropical Fruit Blends: A Taste of Hawaii in Every Sip

The tropical fruit wines are a testament to their innovative spirit. These blends marry the lush flavors of Hawaii’s native fruits with traditional winemaking practices, creating something truly extraordinary.

     Volcano White: A harmonious blend of red grapes and guava, this semi-sweet wine strikes a perfect balance between the tanginess of guava and the richness of grapes. It’s a must-try for those seeking a taste of the islands.

     Macadamia Nut Honey Wine: This dessert-style wine is crafted with macadamia nut honey for a smooth and luxurious finish. It’s a sweet, golden treat perfect for sipping on its own or pairing with desserts.

 Tea-Infused Wines: An Innovative Island Twist

 Volcano Winery takes creativity a step further with their tea-infused wines, a unique category that showcases Hawaii’s tea-growing heritage.

     Infusion: This blend of macadamia nut honey wine and black tea creates a balanced, slightly tannic wine with earthy undertones. It’s a unique offering that appeals to both wine and tea enthusiasts.

     Volcano Blush: A light and fruity blend that combines rosé-style wine with hibiscus and other tropical flowers. Its floral aroma and delicate sweetness make it a favorite for summer evenings.

 Wine Pairing Suggestions

     Symphony Dry: Perfect with fresh seafood, salads, or light pasta dishes.

    Volcano Red: Complements grilled meats, tomato-based sauces, and hearty stews.

     Volcano White: Pairs beautifully with tropical fruit salads, spicy Asian dishes, or soft cheeses.

     Macadamia Nut Honey Wine: Ideal as a dessert wine, served with cheesecake, fruit tarts, or chocolates.

Plan Your Visit!

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique Hawaiian experience, Volcano Winery offers something special. Located just minutes from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it’s an ideal addition to any Big Island itinerary.

Address:
35 Piimauna Drive, Volcano, HI 96785

Hours:
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Website: www.volcanowinery.com

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