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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.

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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.

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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! 🍷

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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!

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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! 🍷

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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.