Grand Rapids Winery Matures

Bob Bonga, from Cascade Winery in Grand Rapids, has turned his hobby into a successful wine venture in six short years. There have been a lot of changes in that time.

They expanded from kit wines to fruit wines, and now also produce wines made from Michigan grapes. Along with his son Roger, the head winemaker, Bob moved the winery from a small 2000 square foot storefront into a 6800 square foot facility last year. They plan to produce 3000 cases this year.

The unique concept of bringing their winery to the city is what intrigued me most about Cascade Winery. Without vineyards to take care of, they can spend their full time tending to the wine and the business aspect of the winery. Many of their grapes are sourced in Southwest Michigan. Everything is produced and bottled at their facility in Grand Rapids.

They just released their 2008 Cabernet Franc, which Bob believes will be as successful as their 2007 release, which won two gold medals (Indy International Wine Competition and Michigan State Wine Competition). I plan to post tasting notes on the 2008 as soon as I can secure a bottle.

At the 2009 Indy International Wine Competition, Cascade won gold medals for Raspberry and Chocolate Silk wines.

Cascade Winery's wines are available widespread through specialty wine shops and on their website. The tasting room is open Tuesday through Thursday 10am to 6pm, Friday 10am to 7pm, and Saturday and Monday 10am to 5pm.