Volcano Winery
Volcano Winery, Big Island
Hawaii isn't known as a wine destination, but the Big Island is home to the Volcano Winery, where visitors are treated to free wine tastings and can purchase unique Hawaiian fruit-blended wines with exotic names, such as Volcano Red and Volcano Blush.
The winery's specialties are two award-winning white wines made from the Symphony grape. The resulting wine is a cross between the Grenache Gris and Muscat, with a slight spiciness and a fruity flavor. Also a hit among visitors is the Macadamia Nut Honey Wine, perhaps because of its distinctly Hawaiian flavor. The sweet, tangy taste makes it a popular after-dinner wine. There are also fruit-blended wines flavored with local fruits, such as yellow guava and jaboticaba.
Many of the wines are only available in Hawaii, so often times visitors take home a bottle or two. FAA regulations don’t allow liquids on the plane (wines included), so you can have the wine packed to fit in your check-in luggage. Packaging is available for boxes of 3, 6, and 12 bottles. They only ship to a limited number of states, so check for shipping policies before ordering.
The Volcano Winery is the southernmost winery in the United States. Located in Volcano, it makes for a great side trip if you’re visiting other attractions in the area, such as the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Hours: Open daily from 10 am to 5:30 pm
Volcano Winery Overview
- Free wine tasting
- Symphony wines, fruit-blended wines and honey wines
- Big Island's only commercial vintner
- Small gift shop located on the premises, sells T-shirts, kukui nut leis, jewelry, postcards and other items
- At this time, they do not have any distribution on the continental U.S. or internationally
- Other retailers are located around the Big Island and on Oahu, Maui and Kauai
Location:
From Kona: If you're coming from the southern part of the island, take Hwy 19 south. Once you round the southern part of the island, head north on Hwy 11. Turn left after mile marker 31 onto Pii Mauna Drive. The winery is at the end of the road.
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