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Episode 26: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Faust Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting | National Red Wine Day & Food Cost Solutions

Celebrate National Red Wine Day with SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates in Episode 26 of Grapes & Debates. Joined by guest host Chance Stone, an experienced account manager for Ben E. Keith Foods, this episode features an in-depth tasting of the acclaimed Faust Cabernet Sauvignon.

As they savor this exceptional red, the hosts delve into Chance’s extensive background as a food supplier, sharing insights into the industry’s inner workings. The conversation then shifts to a critical debate on the rising prices of food and what restaurant owners can do to offset these increasing costs. With practical tips and strategic advice, this episode is a must-listen for restaurateurs looking to navigate the challenges of today’s economic landscape while enhancing their wine knowledge.

Tune in for a rich discussion that blends the pleasures of fine wine with actionable business strategies.

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Episode 25: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Frog’s Leap Wine Tasting | Wine Club Insights & Fall Marketing Strategies

In Episode 25 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates take listeners on a flavorful journey with a tasting of Frog’s Leap Wines. This episode delves into the nuances of wines featured in the SoNapa Wine Club, highlights from the Summer Social Event, and upcoming fall marketing activities designed to elevate the SoNapa experience.

As the tasting unfolds, the conversation takes a lively turn into a debate: Can one successfully recover from knee surgery while enjoying nightly wine, and still be race-ready for a 1/2 Ironman by September 29th? This episode is a blend of wine expertise, event insights, and personal challenges, making it a must-listen for wine enthusiasts, club members, and those looking to push their limits.

Tune in for an engaging mix of wine, strategy, and spirited debate.

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Episode 24: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Blind Cabernet Tasting & Restaurant Industry Challenges

In Episode 24 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates are joined by guest host Emily Dunbar, SoNapa’s Marketing & Events Director. Recorded at SoNapa Grille’s podcast studio, this episode takes you through a blind tasting of two distinct Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa Valley and the North Coast.

The conversation then shifts to a discussion of the wines featured in the SoNapa wine club, details about the upcoming Summer Social Event, and strategic insights on fall marketing activities. The tasting evolves into a lively debate about the rising trend of restaurant bankruptcies, where the hosts delve into the core issues driving this industry challenge.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in wine, marketing, and the dynamic forces shaping the restaurant business today. Don’t miss out on expert opinions and actionable insights that can help you navigate these turbulent times.

Episode 23: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Blind Cabernet Tasting with General Managers | The Fun of Work and Coaching Impact

Join SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates in Episode 23 of Grapes & Debates, featuring special guest hosts Nick Antelek, General Manager of Ormond Beach, and Clayton Wedbee, General Manager of Jacksonville Beach. In this episode, the hosts engage in a blind tasting of three distinguished Cabernet Sauvignons from Sonoma and Napa, offering expert insights and tasting notes.

The conversation then evolves into a dynamic debate about the joy of coming to work and the significant impact of coaching on their performance. This episode provides a unique blend of wine expertise and motivational discussion, perfect for wine lovers and restaurant professionals.

Tune in for an enriching experience that highlights the pleasure of wine tasting and the benefits of effective coaching in the restaurant industry.

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Episode 22: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Wine Tasting with Aspect Fine Wines | Marketing Insights

Join SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates in Episode 22 of Grapes & Debates, featuring an exceptional guest host Tony Tirello from Aspect Fine Wines. This episode is packed with expertise as Shannon Barringer and SoNapa Marketing Director Emily Dunbar also join the conversation.

Together, they indulge in a distinguished tasting session with wines including Grgich Hills Fume Blanc, Teeter Totter Chardonnay from renowned winemaker Benoit Touquette, Kosta Brown Pinot Noir, Duckhorn Merlot, and WhiteHall Lane Cabernet.

Beyond the exquisite wine sampling, the hosts and guests delve into valuable marketing insights and strategies tailored for the restaurant and wine industry. This episode promises to be a treasure trove of knowledge for wine aficionados and restaurateurs aiming to elevate their business and marketing approaches.

Tune in to Episode 22 for a captivating blend of fine wine tasting and cutting-edge marketing expertise, ensuring you stay ahead in the dynamic world of hospitality and wine.

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Episode 21: Grapes & Debates | Blind Tasting Opus One, Overture & Buena Vista with Industry Experts | Labor Costs & Lunch Closure after 77 Years

In Episode 21 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Chris Botting are joined by an exceptional panel of guest hosts: Charley Barley, Doug “The Senator” Long, and the legendary Don Simmons. This engaging episode, recorded at our podcast studio in New Smyrna Beach, FL, features a blind tasting of distinguished wines, including the 2015 Opus One Napa Valley Red Wine, Opus One “Overture” Napa Valley Red Wine (blended vintages of 2014, 2015, and 2016), and the 2020 Buena Vista Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley.

The hosts not only delve into the nuances of these prestigious wines but also engage in a thought-provoking debate on the rising costs of labor in the restaurant industry. They further discuss the impactful decision by Norwood’s Eatery & Tree House to close for lunch during the week after 77 years of service. This episode promises a blend of sophisticated wine analysis and pertinent business discussions, offering valuable and comical insights for restaurateurs and wine aficionados.

Tune in to stay informed on industry trends and enhance your understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the restaurant sector.

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Episode 20: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Wine Tasting with Chef Erik Amalfitano | Culinary Career Insights

Join SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates in Episode 20 of Grapes & Debates, featuring special guest host Chef Erik Amalfitano. Together, they sample Fre Red Wine (alcohol-free), offering a unique tasting experience.

Dive deep into Erik’s fascinating career path, from his time as a chef at SoNapa Grille to his current culinary adventure at Outriggers. This episode provides an intimate look at the journey of a talented chef, filled with valuable insights and inspiring stories.

Tune in for an engaging blend of wine tasting and culinary career exploration. Perfect for food enthusiasts, aspiring chefs, and anyone interested in the dynamic world of hospitality.

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Episode 19: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Wine Tasting with Trinchero Family Estates | Florida Minimum Wage Impact

Join SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates in Episode 19 of Grapes & Debates, recorded on location at our Jacksonville Beach venue. This episode features special guest hosts Ben Frick and Ben Duguid from Trinchero Family Estates, renowned for their exceptional wine portfolio. Together, they indulge in a curated tasting of Neyers Unoaked Chardonnay, Mason Sauvignon Blanc, Iron & Sand Cabernet, Quatro Theory Cabernet, and Joel Gott Pinot Noir.

In addition to exploring these exquisite wines, the hosts dive into a discussion on updating restaurant menus in anticipation of Florida’s increased minimum wage for tipped employees. This episode offers valuable insights for restaurateurs and wine enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss out on this engaging and informative session that blends the art of wine tasting with practical business advice.

Tune in to enhance your knowledge and stay ahead in the ever-evolving restaurant industry.

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Join the owners of SoNapa Grille, Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates, as they present Episode 18 of the Grapes & Debates podcast. This week, they are joined by New Smyrna Beach Mayor Fred Cleveland for an exciting and insightful episode. The team will blind taste two remarkable Bordeaux-style red blends: Jayson by Pahlmeyer and Opus One by Mondavi & Rothschild, both inspired by the prestigious Mouton Rothschild Winery.

In addition to the wine tasting, they will engage in a lively debate on issues facing New Smyrna Beach and the importance of small businesses building strong relationships with their elected officials. Don’t miss this engaging episode filled with expert wine insights and valuable discussions on local governance and community building.

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Join us for Episode 17 of Grapes & Debates, presented by SoNapa Grille. This episode features the restaurant’s owners, Adam Barringer, and Joe Bates, along with guest host Bri Platas, sales representative for Maverick Beverage. Dive into a delightful wine-tasting experience as they sample and discuss three exceptional wines: Angels & Cowboys Rosé, Field Recordings Red Zinfandel, and Jax Y3 Pinot Noir.

Explore the unique flavors and stories behind these wines, gain insights from industry experts, and enjoy lively debates on topics impacting the restaurant and wine industry. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a restaurant professional, this episode offers valuable knowledge and engaging conversations.

Tune in to Grapes & Debates for a perfect blend of wine tasting and industry discussions, brought to you by the passionate team at SoNapa Grille.

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