Wine Dinner Series: A Taste of Kauaʻi at The Farm at Hōkūala

On the evening of October 2, invited guests gathered at The Farm at Hōkūala for an extraordinary experience: an expert wine dinner curated by Kaua‘i natives and residents. With the land’s rich volcanic soil beneath their feet and fresh Pacific breezes gently rustling The Farm’s lush foliage, attendees were treated to a feast of flavors drawn from and inspired by Kauaʻi’s fertile land and the finest vineyards.

The evening began with the soft glow of golden hour, as the intimate group gathered amidst rows of fresh herbs and vibrant vegetables, guests were introduced to a true celebration of Kauaʻi’s natural bounty, hand-harvested for the event. The air was thick with anticipation, not only for the culinary experience that awaited, but also for the deep sense of community and connection that this evening represented.

At the heart of the event was the partnership between Timbers Kauaʻi and the renowned Jackson Family Wines. As Kauaʻi residents, their personal connection to the land made the dinner all the more special. The Jacksons provided a carefully curated selection of wines from their own vineyard portfolio, an offering as rich and diverse as the island itself.

Kauaʻi-born Master Sommelier Chris Ramelb played a key role in weaving the evening’s elements together, thoughtfully selecting each wine to complement the flavors crafted by Hualani’s Executive Chef Alex Amorin. As a native of the island, Chris brought a passion for Kauaʻi’s produce and a deep understanding of the wines he paired, creating perfect harmony with every course.

Chef Alex’s menu was a tribute to the island, showcasing the freshest locally-grown ingredients. Guests enjoyed an array of offerings featuring local vegetables, herbs, and proteins, each plate an edible tribute to the richness of the land. Every bite reflected the chef’s expertise and the deep-rooted connection between the land and its people.

Throughout the evening, conversations flowed as freely as the wine, with guests sharing stories of their connection to the land and to Timbers Kauaʻi. This sense of community was as central to the event as the food and wine itself, reinforcing the deep ties between those who call this place home, even if only for part of the year.

As the night drew to a close, guests lingered under the stars, savoring the final sips of wine and the lingering flavors of the island. Ha‘aheo O Kaua‘i had been more than a meal; it was a celebration of Kauaʻi’s vibrant land, the dedication of its people, and the enduring connections that tie it all together.