Photo © Courtesy of Dirty Laundry Winery
There’s no shortage of beautiful wineries in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, but few have the personality, story, and unmistakable charm of Dirty Laundry Winery.
This year, the beloved Summerland destination is celebrating its 20th anniversary, raising a glass (or two!) to two decades of creating bold wines and unforgettable experiences. If you’re looking for a winery that blends exceptional quality with a sense of fun and just a hint of mischief, this is the place to be
GREAT WINE AND A GREAT STORY
Of all the wine pairings in the world, the very best is a good story, and Dirty Laundry has that built into its legacy.
The winery’s roots stretch back further than its official founding in 2006. The property itself dates to 1978, when it was first planted as Scherzinger Vineyards, transforming former cherry orchards into thriving vines of Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.
But Dirty Laundry takes its name from local legend: in the 1890s, the site was home to a laundry that secretly served a nearby bordello. Patrons would drop off their laundry and return later to both collect their clean clothes and indulge in some discreet entertainment. Today, that cheeky backstory lives on in the winery’s branding, tasting room experience, and lighthearted approach to wine.
It’s a little gossipy, a little gimmicky, but in a way that feels like being in on a fun and playful secret. It works because behind the cheeky name is a serious commitment to crafting approachable, award-winning wines that appeal to both seasoned enthusiasts and casual sippers alike.
WINE SHOULD BE ENJOYABLE, NOT INTIMIDATING
At least, that’s the philosophy of Dirty Laundry Winemaker Mason Spink, who has overseen more than a decade of vintages. The winery’s portfolio leans into expressive, fruit-forward styles that reflect the Okanagan’s terroir while remaining accessible and fun to drink.
Their balance of quality without pretension is part of what has built such a loyal following over the past 20 years, and 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year on that front. With a return to working closely with B.C.-grown fruit and a lineup of creative new releases on the horizon, the anniversary celebrations will be as much about what’s next as what’s come before.
Of course, great wine is only part of the story. Dirty Laundry Winery has become one of the South Okanagan’s most popular destinations thanks to its unforgettable setting and no-judgment approach.
From the moment you walk into the tasting room, you’re invited to relax. There’s no pressure to be an expert, no expectation to know your tannins from your terroir. Instead, the focus is on the connection between guests, staff, people, and the wines in their glasses.
The view certainly doesn’t hurt, either. The winery’s patio offers sweeping 180-degree views that stretch from Okanagan Lake to the rolling mountains beyond. The Kettle Valley Steam Railway adds to the charm as it chugs right past the vineyard, offering a nostalgic, picture-perfect moment you won’t find anywhere else.
And then there’s the food. From April through October, guests can pair their wine with wood-fired creations from the authentic forno pizza oven—crispy, shareable, and perfectly suited to a sunny Okanagan afternoon. It’s the kind of place that welcomes long lunches and “one more glass.”
JOIN THE CELEBRATION
In celebration of Dirty Laundry’s 20th anniversary, the winery will host special events and experiences throughout 2026, offering plenty of opportunities for guests to toast the past two decades while looking ahead to the future.
“To celebrate 20 years is an incredible milestone for us,” said Paul Sawler, general manager of Dirty Laundry Winery. “We’ve always believed wine should be fun, approachable, and shared with good company. This anniversary is really about thanking everyone who has supported us—our guests, our team, and our community—over the years.”
Located just seven kilometres northwest of Penticton along scenic Highway 97, the winery is an easy addition to any Okanagan itinerary and a destination worth planning around. Open daily, tastings are offered year-round, with patio season running from spring through fall.
But if you can’t make it to Summerland as often as you’d like, Dirty Laundry has a way to bring the experience to you. The Bordello Club, true to the brand’s cheeky personality, is the winery’s exclusive wine club, offering curated selections delivered straight to your door across Canada. Members enjoy access to limited releases, special perks, and a direct connection to the winery, no matter where they’re located.
Between the wine, the setting, and the friendly energy, it’s no wonder that Dirty Laundry Winery has earned a reputation as one of Summerland’s best-kept secrets—though, at this point, the secret is definitely out.
Find out for yourself by planning your visit at dirtylaundry.ca or follow Dirty Laundry Winery on social media (Facebook, Instagram).
Get your free copy of Global Heroes, jam-packed with positive news, straight in your inbox.
Summerland’s Best Kept Secret & Wine Experience Destination
From grape to glass, shop online for our award-winning BC wines and join our Wine Club for insider access and benefits.