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The ranch donated the land for a small memorial park in Keokea, en route to the winery. It contains a bronze statue of Sun Yat-sen and was dedicated on the late doctor’s birthday in 1989. When he was wanted “dead or alive” in China for his revolutionary activities, Sun Yat-sen sought refuge with his brother, who had a farm near the site. The memorial also commemorates the bicentennial of the first Chinese immigrants to Hawai’i. (see Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Park).

Some 20 acres of hybrid carnelian grapes grow on the sunny leeward slope of Haleakalā – the fruit destined for the vats of Maui’s only commercial winery.

The winery made its first product, Maui Blanc, from Hawai’i’s best-known fruit – pineapples! Grapes were harvested in 1980 and turned into sparkling wine, Maui Brut-Blanc de Noirs, which was served at the inauguration of President Ronald Reagan. Maui Blush, Maui Nouveau, Rose Ranch Cuvee, Maui Splash, ’Ulupalakua Red, and Plantation Red have since been added to the list.

King Kalā kaua’s taste for champagne was legendary, and so it is fitting that the cottage built for him in 1874 is now the winery’s Tasting Room. The centerpiece is an 18-ft bar cut from the trunk of a mango tree where visitors can sample products.

Also in the King’s Cottage is the History Room, which contains photos and artifacts of the ranch’s most renowned owners, the story of Maui’s paniolo (cowboys), and tales of polo ponies.

One of the ranch’s original buildings has stout walls made of coral and may once have been used as a jail for rowdy ranch hands who were lowered through a trap door to the “keep” below.

Ruins of the mill’s stone chimney are still visible across the street from the Tasting Room.

This huge tree, more than 150 years old, was part of Makee’s original landscaping. Many plants, trees, and shrubs were imported by Makee to make his home the “showcase of Maui.” It’s believed the Makee family introduced more types of ornamental trees and shrubs to Hawai’i than any other person or organization.

When King Kalā-kaua’s ship was sighted entering Mā kena Bay, Makee would fire his cannon to let the ship’s crew know that a greeting party would soon be there to welcome the visiting monarch. Alas, the cannon no longer issues welcoming salvos.

Whimsical, life-sized sculptures of lanky cowboys by the late local artist Reems Mitchell welcome visitors from the porch of the small country store. Snacks, sundries, and souvenirs with a paniolo (cowboy) theme are available.