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

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

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Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Beringer Private Reserve & Quilceda Creek Cabernet | Is Beef Wellington Fancy or Outdated?

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.

Episode 39: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Thanksgiving Wines from Publix, ABC, & Walgreens

Episode 39: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Thanksgiving Wines from Publix, ABC, & Walgreens

In Episode 39 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founders Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates bring the holiday spirit with a lively discussion and wine tasting focused on Thanksgiving. The hosts sample a selection of wines purchased from Publix, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, and Walgreens, all priced between $10 and $22—perfect picks for your Thanksgiving Day dinner.

Join the conversation as they explore the best budget-friendly wines to pair with turkey, stuffing, and all your holiday favorites. Whether you’re hosting a feast or attending as a guest, this episode is packed with practical recommendations and fun insights to make your Thanksgiving celebration even more special.

Get ready for expert tips on wine pairing, holiday hosting, and choosing quality bottles without breaking the bank!

Episode 38: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Sebastiani Cabernet & EOS Pinot Grigio | Stelvin Screw Cap vs. Cork Debate

In Episode 38 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founders Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates come together for a lively wine tasting and spirited debate. This episode highlights the rich Sebastiani Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley, while Joe remains loyal to his go-to, EOS Pinot Grigio.

The hosts delve into a hot topic in the wine world: the Stelvin Screw Cap versus traditional cork enclosures. They explore the pros and cons of each, debating preservation, sustainability, and guest perceptions. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a casual enthusiast, or in the restaurant industry, this episode delivers an engaging mix of expert insights and entertaining banter.

Tune in for a blend of wine wisdom and thought-provoking discussion that keeps Grapes & Debates a must-listen for wine lovers and restaurateurs alike.

Episode 33: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Tasting Joseph Phelps Cabernet & Insignia Red Blend | Movie Favorites Debate

Episode 33: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Tasting Joseph Phelps Cabernet & Insignia Red Blend | Movie Favorites Debate

In Episode 33 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Joe Bates, and Chris Botting come together for an exciting wine tasting with Mike Morrissey, sales representative from Coastal Distributor. This episode features an exploration of the renowned Joseph Phelps Cabernet and the iconic Insignia Red Blend. The hosts dive deep into the tasting experience, discussing the complex flavor profiles and exceptional quality that define these standout wines from the Joseph Phelps portfolio.

But it’s not all about wine—after the tasting, the conversation shifts to a lively debate on the hosts’ favorite movies. Blending the art of wine with entertainment, this episode promises a fun and flavorful listen for wine enthusiasts and cinephiles alike. Don’t miss this dynamic session that pairs world-class wines with lighthearted movie banter!

Episode 31: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Napa Valley Icon Bruce Cakebread of Cakebread Cellars

Episode 31: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Napa Valley Icon Bruce Cakebread of Cakebread Cellars | Sustainable Wine Practices

In Episode 31 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates welcome a very special guest, Bruce Cakebread, owner of the legendary Cakebread Cellars. Recorded at SoNapa Grille in Jacksonville Beach, this episode dives into Bruce’s upbringing in Napa Valley and the rise of Cakebread Cellars as an iconic winery renowned for its exceptional Chardonnays and Cabernet wines.

The discussion covers Cakebread’s commitment to sustainable growing practices that have set them apart in the wine industry. With SoNapa Grille preparing for a Cakebread Cellars wine dinner, the hosts and Bruce explore the winery’s influence on the Napa Valley region and their philosophy on producing high-quality wines.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of Napa Valley’s greats and gain insider knowledge about the art of sustainable winemaking and the legacy of Cakebread Cellars.

Episode 28: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Blind Tasting Chardonnay: Carneros vs. Russian River Valley | Local Politics with Jason McGuirk

Episode 28: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Blind Tasting Chardonnay: Carneros vs. Russian River Valley | Local Politics with Jason McGuirk

In Episode 28 of Grapes & Debates, presented by SoNapa Grille, join owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates, along with guest host New Smyrna Beach City Commissioner Jason McGuirk, for an exciting and lively discussion. Recorded on location, the hosts participate in a blind tasting of three Chardonnays—two from the Carneros region and one from Russian River Valley. As they savor and critique each wine, they engage in a spirited debate: Which region truly produces the superior Chardonnay, Carneros or Russian River Valley?

In addition to the wine tasting, the conversation touches on local politics, offering valuable insights from Commissioner McGuirk. Plus, don’t miss Adam making good on a fun bet, paying the price for his loss after picking the Jacksonville Jaguars over the Miami Dolphins.

Tune in for a perfect blend of wine exploration, regional debates, and a touch of humor. This episode is a must-listen for wine enthusiasts and those interested in the intersection of politics and hospitality.

Episode 14 of Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille Podcast | Featuring Colby Sumner | Duckhorn & Frogs Leap

Join us for Episode 14 of *Grapes & Debates*, presented by SoNapa Grille and its founder, Adam Barringer. This week, Adam is joined by special guest host Colby Sumner, Marine veteran and host of the *America Fog of War* podcast. Together, they sample and discuss wines from Duckhorn and Frog’s Leap. The lively debate begins with the visit to Duckhorn and delves into the merits of the greatest wine-growing regions: Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Tune in for passionate discussions, and a celebration of the finest wines California has to offer.

Episode 12 of Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille Podcast | Featuring Paul Serafimoff | Gallo Portfolio Wine Tasting

Welcome to Episode 12 of Grapes & Debates, presented by SoNapa Grille and hosted by its dedicated owners. In this captivating episode, we are joined by esteemed guest Paul Serafimoff for an exclusive wine tasting session featuring exceptional selections from the Gallo Portfolio.

Discover the nuances and flavors of J Vineyards Pinot Gris, Wildhorse Cabernet, Louis Martini Napa Cabernet, and Orin Swift Abstract. Our hosts and Paul Serafimoff delve into the complexities of each wine, offering expert insights and lively debates on their distinct characteristics. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a casual sipper, this episode is packed with valuable information and engaging discussions.

Tune in to Grapes & Debates for an enriching experience that combines the passion of wine tasting with the art of debate. Don’t miss out on this flavorful journey through the world of Gallo wines, brought to you by SoNapa Grille.