Episode 57: Grapes & Debates | Blind Tasting Big Bold Reds | Cab Franc from The Debate Stuns the Panel

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In Episode 57 of Grapes & Debates, hosts Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates are joined by special guest host and acclaimed wine blogger Steve Berberich (winetime386) for an unforgettable blind tasting showdown. Recorded in the studio, this episode dives deep into three powerhouse reds from California’s most prestigious regions: Alexander Valley and Napa Valley.

Without knowing the labels, the panel blind tastes and analyzes each wine—discussing structure, aroma, finish, and overall impact. The big surprise? All four unanimously choose a single vineyard Cabernet Franc as their standout selection. The reveal? The wine is none other than The Debate—a showstopping bottle that lives up to its name, even if it sparked no actual debate.

If you’re a fan of bold California reds, blind tastings, or discovering hidden gems, this episode is a must-listen. Packed with expert insights, authentic reactions, and a bit of fun, Episode 57 offers a masterclass in flavor and finesse.

🎧 Tune in for tasting notes, wine wisdom, and a surprising unanimous favorite that proves sometimes… the wine is the Debate.

Episode 56: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | The Calling Wines Tasting with Voradet & Rainy | Wine Club Selections Unveiled

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In Episode 56 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates are joined by special guest hosts Voradet and Rainy from The Calling Wines. Filmed on location, this episode showcases an unforgettable tasting of The Calling’s most celebrated selections: Dutton Ranch Chardonnay, Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, and The Tribute.

There’s no debate this week—these wines speak for themselves. Each bottle earns a well-deserved place in the exclusive SoNapa Wine Club and will be featured on the wine list at all three SoNapa Grille locations.

Tune in to discover what makes The Calling some of the most compelling wines produced in Sonoma County, and why these selections are must-haves for wine lovers and hospitality professionals alike. A perfect blend of palate education and restaurant insight—only on Grapes & Debates.

Episode 55: Grapes & Debates | Blind Tasting Red Zinfandel | Tipping Culture at Fast Casual Chains

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In Episode 55 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates are joined by guest host Charley Barley for an eye-opening blind tasting of three bold Red Zinfandels: Oakville Winery (Napa Valley), Seghesio Red Zinfandel (Sonoma), and Sin Zin (Sonoma). With no labels in sight, the hosts put their palates to the test and reveal their honest take on these iconic California wines.

Following the tasting, the debate heats up as they tackle the controversial topic of tipping—specifically, whether or not customers should be expected to tip at fast casual spots like Chipotle, Starbucks, and beyond. Is the tipping culture out of control, or are service industry workers simply getting the respect they deserve?

Whether you’re a wine lover, a hospitality professional, or just someone who’s ever wondered if that iPad tip screen is a guilt trip—this episode is for you. Tune in for bold wines, bold opinions, and a conversation that’s shaping the future of dining.

Episode 54: Grapes & Debates | Blind Tasting Pinot Grigio | California vs. Italy | National Joe Day & The Free Bread Debate

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In Episode 54 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates are joined by guest host Emily Dunbar, SoNapa’s very own Marketing & Events Director, for a lively and flavorful showdown. The trio blind tastes four Pinot Grigios—two from California and two from Italy—in a battle of Old World vs. New World. Which region will win the crown for crisp, refreshing supremacy?

The conversation doesn’t stop with the wine. In celebration of National Joe Day, the group raises a glass to co-host Joe Bates and dives headfirst into one of the restaurant industry’s most debated topics: Should bread be free?

Tune in for expert opinions, blind tasting surprises, and a bit of restaurant industry controversy—all served with a splash of Pinot Grigio. Whether you’re a wine lover, hospitality pro, or just here for the debates, this episode delivers.

Episode 53: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Paso Robles vs. Napa & Sonoma | Featuring Rouge Wave Wine Bar

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In Episode 53 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Joe Bates, and Chris Botting sit down with special guest host Nate Goldstein, a young entrepreneur and owner of the newly opened Rouge Wave Wine Bar in New Smyrna Beach.

Together, they explore the bold flavors of Austin wines from Paso Robles, then blind taste Papillon by Orin Swift and Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon. The conversation heats up as they debate how Paso Robles wines stack up against the world-renowned regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma County.

This episode is a must-listen for wine lovers, industry professionals, and anyone curious about the rising reputation of Paso Robles wines. Tune in for tasting notes, entrepreneurial insight, and a lively debate on California’s premier wine regions.

Episode 52: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Cakebread Chardonnay & Stags Leap Petite Syrah | The Best Drinking Holiday Debate

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In Episode 52 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates dive into a spirited wine tasting featuring Cakebread Chardonnay and Stags Leap Petite Syrah—two iconic wines that showcase Napa Valley’s craftsmanship.

But the real debate? Which holiday is the ultimate drinking holiday? From New Year’s Eve to St. Patrick’s Day, Fourth of July to Thanksgiving, Adam and Joe go head-to-head, making their case for the best occasion to raise a glass.

Tune in for expert wine insights, entertaining banter, and the kind of debate only Grapes & Debates can deliver. Don’t miss this fun, wine-fueled showdown! 🍷🔥 #WineTasting #GrapesAndDebates #Cakebread #StagsLeap #BestDrinkingHoliday

Episode 51: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Wine Tasting with Foley Family Wines | Alan Crawford’s Journey in the Wine Industry

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In Episode 51 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates sit down with Alan Crawford, National Sales Manager for the Luxury Division of Foley Family Wines, and Kim Braddock, North Florida Sales Manager for Foley Family Wines. Together, they explore an exceptional lineup of wines, including Chateau St. Jean Chardonnay, Knights Valley Cabernet, and Cinq Cépages—a Bordeaux-style blend that showcases Foley Family Wines’ commitment to excellence.

Beyond the tasting, the conversation delves into Alan Crawford’s impressive career in the wine industry, his journey with Foley Family Wines, and insights into the world of luxury wine sales. Whether you’re a restaurateur, sommelier, or wine enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways about fine wines, career growth in the industry, and the evolving landscape of premium wine distribution.

Tune in for a deep dive into the craftsmanship behind Foley Family Wines and expert insights on navigating the wine business! 🍷

Episode 50: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Winemaker Todd Graff of Frank Family Vineyards | SoNapa Wine Club Exclusive

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In this milestone 50th episode of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates sit down with Todd Graff, the Winemaker and General Manager of Frank Family Vineyards. Together, they explore a selection of Frank Family Wines, delving into Todd’s winemaking philosophy, his career journey, and what makes these wines stand out in Napa Valley.

Adam and Joe also share exciting news—Frank Family wines have been a favorite in the SoNapa Wine Club, and their Chardonnay will be featured for Member Monday at SoNapa Grille. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or a restaurant professional, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at premium winemaking and how SoNapa curates wines for its guests.

Tune in for an insightful discussion filled with exceptional wine, expert insights, and engaging conversation!

Episode 49: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Tasting EOS Wines & The House Wine Debate

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In Episode 49 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Joe Bates, and their business partner Chris Botting sit down to explore the world of EOS Wines, a premium house wine served at SoNapa Grille. Together, they sample and discuss the unique characteristics of these wines while diving into a spirited debate on the role of house wines in the restaurant industry.

Should house wines be budget-friendly crowd-pleasers, or should they reflect a higher standard, like EOS? How do restaurants balance quality, brand perception, and profitability when selecting a house wine? This episode is a must-listen for wine lovers and restaurant professionals looking to elevate their wine programs.

Tune in for expert insights, industry strategies, and, of course, a fantastic wine-tasting experience! 🍷

Episode 48: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Beringer Private Reserve & Quilceda Creek Cabernet | Is Beef Wellington Fancy or Outdated?

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In this lively episode of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates welcome special guests Charley Barley and Don Simmons, owner of Norwood’s Restaurant & Treehouse. Together, they embark on an exceptional wine tasting featuring Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet, a Napa Valley classic, and Quilceda Creek Cabernet from Columbia Valley—bringing a bold Washington State contender into the mix.

Beyond the wine, the group dives into a spirited debate: Is Beef Wellington a timeless fine-dining masterpiece, or an outdated relic of the past? This discussion blends culinary history with modern restaurant trends, offering insights for food lovers and industry pros alike.

Don’t miss this engaging episode packed with expert wine analysis, restaurant industry talk, and a fun food debate! 🍷🔥 Listen now and join the conversation.