Episode 40: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Blind Tasting Napa Valley Cabernets | 40-Episode Favorite Wine Showdown

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In this milestone 40th episode of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founders Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates take on a blind tasting of two exquisite 2021 Napa Valley Cabernets, crafted by wineries located just 1.5 miles apart. Which wine will emerge as the standout?

The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as the hosts debate their favorite wines tasted throughout the 40-episode journey, reflecting on the most memorable sips and spirited discussions.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a restaurant professional, this episode offers an intriguing mix of expert insights, palate challenges, and reflections on Napa Valley’s finest. Celebrate 40 episodes of wine exploration and industry debates with us—don’t miss it!

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

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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!

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

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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.

Episode 37: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Wine Tasting with New Owners of The Grill at Tianos | Challenges of Running a City-Owned Golf Course Restaurant

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In Episode 37 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer—flying solo without his business partners Chris Botting and Joe Bates—hosts a lively discussion with special guests Travous Dever and Jim Rushing, the new owners of The Grill at Tianos, a city-owned restaurant located on a scenic golf course. Together, they dive into an exclusive wine tasting featuring Juggernaut Cabernet, Provenance Cabernet, and Caymus Cabernet.

Beyond the wine, the hosts debate the unique challenges of taking over and operating a leased restaurant on city property. This episode provides an engaging mix of wine expertise and real-world insights into the restaurant industry, perfect for those interested in the nuances of running a high-profile venue. Tune in to discover the story behind The Grill at Tianos and learn about the dedication it takes to overcome obstacles in the restaurant business.

Episode 36: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Special Election Results Discussion with Yes on 3 Advocate Kevin O’Donnell | Tasting “M by Merus”, and The Debate Wine

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In Episode 36 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates welcome guest host Kevin O’Donnell—serial entrepreneur, restaurateur, former vineyard owner, and advocate for Yes on 3. In this patriotic episode, the hosts dress in red, white, and blue and dive into the recent election results and the impact of the Yes on 3 campaign. As they discuss politics and entrepreneurship, they taste some extraordinary wines, including “M by Merus” and the Debate “Single Vineyard” Wines.

This lively episode brings together the world of wine, politics, and restaurant business insights. Join us for a unique blend of debate and tasting, perfect for wine lovers and industry professionals alike.

Episode 35: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Blind Tasting Priest Ranch Cabernet | Yes on 3 Amendment Debate

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In Episode 35 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates sit down with special guest host Kevin O’Donnell—an accomplished entrepreneur, restaurateur, former vineyard owner, and advocate for the Yes on 3 Amendment in Florida. This engaging episode features a blind tasting of the bold Priest Ranch Cabernet from Napa Valley, sparking a lively discussion on its unique profile and winemaking origins.

The conversation would have shifted to the pressing issue of Florida’s Yes on 3 Amendment, where the hosts debated the implications, pros, and cons of the proposal. However this hosting site along with Spotify, Youtube, Opus Clips and Apple all banned it from being posted, so it has no debate.

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

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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!

Episode 32: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | CrossBarn Wines by Paul Hobbs & The Hurricane Dilemma

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Episode 32: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | CrossBarn Wines by Paul Hobbs & The Hurricane Dilemma

In Episode 32 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Joe Bates, and Chris Botting gather to explore the celebrated CrossBarn wines by Paul Hobbs, renowned for their artistry and sustainable farming practices. The trio delves into the tasting experience, discussing the complex flavor profiles and exceptional quality of CrossBarn’s wines.

However, the conversation shifts to a crucial debate: Should SoNapa Grille stay open as Hurricane Milton approaches Florida? Adam, Joe, and Chris analyze the pros and cons, touching on staff safety, customer expectations, revenue risks, and community support in crisis situations.

This episode offers a unique mix of wine education and a real-world business dilemma that every restaurateur can relate to. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a restaurant industry professional, this episode delivers valuable insights, tough decisions, and engaging conversation that go beyond the bottle.

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

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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.

Episode 30: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Bonterra Winery Wine Tasting | Winemaking in Mendocino County

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Episode 30: Grapes & Debates | SoNapa Grille | Bonterra Winery Wine Tasting | Winemaking in Mendocino County

In Episode 30 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates are joined by special guests Megan Stockton of RNDC and John Kane, VP of Operations and Winemaking at Bonterra Winery. Recorded on location, this episode features a tasting of select wines from Bonterra, showcasing the winery’s commitment to organic and sustainable practices.

The discussion delves into the art and science of winemaking in Mendocino County, exploring the unique terroir and innovative techniques that set Bonterra apart. This episode is a must-listen for wine enthusiasts and industry professionals interested in the intricacies of organic wine production and the distinctive characteristics of Mendocino County wines.

Tune in to discover the flavors and stories behind Bonterra’s acclaimed wines and gain insights into the evolving landscape of sustainable winemaking.