The Slamka family planted their first vineyard in 1969 with the intention of selling grapes to large commercial wineries. By 1996, the three Slamka sons had established their own winery. Wines vinted from the hot summer grapes of 1994 made up our first commercial releases.

New vineyard blocks have been added or replanted over time, allowing us to try new varieties in our search for those best suited to our 12 acre parcel. This combination of growing techniques, modern wine making practices, and maturing vines works to create the unique character of our wines.

Lately, we’ve been producing exceptional Sauvignon Blancs and have ventured into white and rosé sparkling wine production. In an effort to showcase the food-friendly nature of our wines, we opened a winery lounge “the Barrel Top Grill” back in 2008. In this setting, our guests can engage all of their senses as they enjoy estate wines paired with tapas-style cuisine while overlooking the astounding beauty of Lake Okanagan and surrounding vineyards.

In the fall of 2018, Little Straw hired a new winemaker to take over the reins from Peter Slamka, who decided to step back from his previous role in our family winery. As Pete passes on the keys to the cellars, we welcome Barb Hall into the fold and look forward to years of creative collaboration. In late 2021, the Slamka family decided to retire and pass on the torch to Kalala Organic Estate Winery. Read more information about the transition here.