It’s said that “laughter is the best medicine” and clearly the fun loving, if somewhat naughty, theme at Dirty Laundry Vineyard is just what the doctor ordered. From the “clothesline” you glimpse hanging to mark the entry of this Summerland winery to the labels on the wine that you’ll be purchasing to take home, no opportunity is missed to set the tone for an entertaining visit. The theme is based on local lore that a Chinese laundry here in the early 1900s had a bordello on the second floor. Hence, you’ll find risqué motifs mixed with laundry references. Just go with the flow and smile because the “not-so-secret” is the same attention to detail goes into winemaking as evidenced in awards and TripAdvisor accolades.
Adding to that award-winning portfolio, winemaker Mason Spink announced the early March release of a brand-new wine – Sauvignon Blanc, he describes as a “well-balanced, food friendly wine with lots of refreshing acidity”. Perfect for the patio reopening for the season – as early as March if the weather cooperates. Either way, the wine shop is open from noon to 4 pm, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and in April seven days a week.
Bringing a wider grin is news that the scenic patio has been expanded creating more space for tasting and bar-style seating. This new area is covered and heated so sure to be a big hit when the weather is still cool in the spring. Back on tap for 2017 are the “Laundry Suds” craft beers available by the glass and in flights in the covered outside tasting bar. Brewed by Bridge Brewing in North Vancouver especially for Dirty Laundry, the lineup includes Dirty Blond Kolsch, Brunette IPA, Full House Pale Ale, and Red Head Wheat Ale.
It’s not too early to snap up tickets for the Roch Lobster Lunches back by popular demand to be held every Friday in July and August. Tickets must be purchased online in advance so snag yours now while dates are available. To keep up-to-date on events, consider becoming a Dirty Laundry VIP “Friends with Benefits”. It’s free to join and its emails offer advance information and discounts throughout the year.
Through the Bordello Wine Club, there are a variety of membership levels offered: Peek-a-Boo, Voyeur, Blush, Boudoir, and Madam. See dirtylaundry.ca for details.
As Charlie Chaplin said, “A day without laughter is a day wasted.” Visit soon.
~ Roslyne Buchanan