In Kahala, the local beverage scene features small-batch distilleries and meaderies that reflect the unique agricultural products of the islands. For wine enthusiasts, the area near Kahala offers a selection of fine wine stores and wine bars, which provide access to a curated collection of local, domestic, and international vintages.
This guide will focus on these establishments, as they represent the true character of the local beverage culture. We'll explore the offerings of Oahu’s only winery, a local meadery, prominent distilleries, and some of the best wine stores and bars near Kahala.
Oahu's Only Winery: OENO Winemaking
OENO Winemaking is Oahu's only winery. This establishment, located in Kailua, produces natural, European-style wines. The winery's ethos is to provide an approachable and relaxed wine experience, making its wines popular for locals and visitors.
The winery ferments and ages wines with imported grapes from the world's top grape-producing regions. The result is a vibrant wine that finishes clean and smooth. OENO Winemaking offers tastings where you can sample six different wines, including reds, whites, sangria, and dessert wines. The tasting experience is an educational journey that provides insight into the production process.
Mānoa Honey & Mead
Mānoa Honey & Mead is a Wahiawa-based meadery that showcases a unique Hawaiian product: honey. The company operates a retail location and offers a tasting experience that provides a glimpse into the art of honey and mead making.
The meadery offers a variety of experiences, including a mead talk and a bees-to-mead tour. The tours provide an engaging look into beekeeping, honey production, and mead tasting. The mead is crafted from the company’s raw honey, harvested from their hives throughout the island. Their honey and mead can be found at local retail locations, including the Whole Foods in Kahala. The meadery’s commitment to using local ingredients and unique products makes it a distinct part of the local beverage scene.
Distilleries on Oahu
Ko’olau Distillery
Ko’olau Distillery, located on Oahu's East Side, is a manufacturer of premium spirits that is known for its Old Pali Road Whiskey. The distillery's name is a tribute to the Koʻolau Mountains, and the legend of the gods residing in the mist where the peaks of the mountains meet the heavens.
The distillery crafts its whiskey using pure Hawaiian artesian water, which is filtered through volcanic rock for generations. The result is a high-quality, aged American whiskey blended by hand. Ko’olau Distillery also produces Tradewind Gin and other spirits, using locally sourced ingredients. The distillery is available for tours and tastings, where visitors can learn about the unique production process and sample their spirits.
Island Distillers
Island Distillers, located in Honolulu, is a family-owned distillery with a mission to create small-batch spirits that showcase the essence of Hawaii. The distillery focuses on using locally sourced ingredients and a farm-to-bottle approach.
The distillery uses a custom, micro, continuous distillation still that instantly vaporizes the mash, creating a smoother, more refined product. The distillery offers a selection of spirits, including HAPA Premium, Coconut, Chili, and Hibiscus Vodkas. It also produces Hawaiian Okolehao, a traditional sugarcane spirit.
Ko Hana Distillers
Ko Hana Distillers is a destination distillery that specializes in Hawaiian Agricole rum. The distillery’s philosophy is to use heirloom Hawaiian sugarcane, or kō, grown on the island of Oahu. This truly grass-to-glass process is visible from the distillery grounds located in the heart of the island.
The distillery ferments, distills, ages, and bottles its rum on the premises. Ko Hana Distillers offers tours and tastings, where visitors can learn about the unique production process and sample a selection of their rums. The distillery's focus on authentic Hawaiian spirits and its commitment to transparency make it a unique and educational destination.
Wine Stores Near Kahala
Fujioka’s Wine Times
Fujioka’s Wine Times, located in Market City Shopping Center, is a popular wine and liquor store. The store is part of Times Supermarkets and carries on the tradition of offering a complete selection of wine and spirits on the island. One can find many options, from affordable everyday wines to premium vintages. The store’s commitment to providing a comprehensive selection and accessible pricing makes it a reliable choice for residents of Kahala.
Tamura’s Fine Wine & Liquors
Tamura’s Fine Wine & Liquors is located near Kahala, a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. The store is known for its wide selection of wines, including new and old-world vintages. A person can also find a variety of craft beers and other spirits. Tamura’s is known for its knowledgeable staff who can assist with recommendations. The store’s selection and its focus on quality make it a great place to find a specific bottle for a special occasion.
Wine Bars Near Kahala
Island Vintage Wine Bar
Island Vintage Wine Bar, from the creators of Island Vintage Coffee, is a popular wine bar that offers a curated selection of wines from around the world. The bar is known for its award-winning wine list and its commitment to local sourcing. It features a wide selection of wines, including highly allocated and rare offerings. It also offers 40 different wines in dispensers, which is a great way to sample a variety of options. The bar’s certified sommelier, Mark Cartland, can answer all your wine questions and suggest perfect pairings.
Amuse Wine Bar
Amuse Wine Bar is a dual-concept venue located on the second floor of the Honolulu Design Center. The wine bar is designed to be a playground for wine lovers and foodies. It features Enomatic Wine Machines, where you can find over 50 wines from all over the world. This self-service system allows you to taste and find the perfect glass to enjoy with your meal. The menu is inspired by "Drinks & Pupus," with unique twists on local favorites. The venue’s commitment to a fun, educational atmosphere makes it an excellent place for an evening out.
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