Our Team

Owner/Winemaker: Robert Lorkowski

Bob began making wine during his childhood when his parents would fill the backseat of the family car with fruit from the local farmer's market and take it home to make wine. His grandfather was a moon shiner, and Bob became fascinated by fermentation.

Originally taking vacations from the banking industry to help with crush, Bob learned his craft working for Cavatappi in Kirkland and Chinook in Prosser, as well as training at UC Davis.

While purchasing grapes for his own label - Sha Toe Du Bob - Lorkowski was asked about taking a permanent interest in Cascade Cliffs by the previous owner and winemaker, Ken Adcock.

Established in 1986 with 5 acres, Robert Lorkowski purchased the property in 1997 and planted an additional 15 acres of vines. His passion for the Piedmont varietals, including Barbera, Dolcetto, and Nebbiolo, continue today and are recognized as some of the best examples of these varietals.

Vineyard Manager/Assistant Winemaker: Eduardo Ornelas

With over 20 years of grape growing experience, Eduardo has been a part of Cascade Cliffs since day one, helping plant the original vines in the vineyard. He oversees and organizes all aspects of the vineyard management, including pruning, training, irrigation, and harversting of the fruit.

Eduardo is also a mechanical whiz, keeping all the winery’s machinery running smooth and ready for operation. Tractors, forklifts, presses, and pumps all get the steady attention of Eduardo when needed.

General Manager: Jared Germain

Jared Germain has been actively involved in the Northwest wine industry for the past twelve years. His passion for all things wine have led him to titles such as wine steward, sommelier, writer, blogger, educator, and maybe his personal favorite, “Cork Dork”.

Jared has certifications with The Court of Master Sommeliers as well as The Society of Wine Educators. He spent the spring and summer of 2009 in Europe, visiting the classic wine regions of Piedmont, Italy and the Rhine/Moselle River Valleys of Germany. This experience convinced him to enter an avenue of wine he had not experienced before--working directly for a winery.

Cascade Cliffs Vineyard and Winery, a boutique artisan winery that focused on the Piedmont varietals, was a perfect fit. Jared now serves as the general manager of the winery and works to educate the public on this unique winery and it’s award-winning wines.