Grapes & Debates

In Episode 89 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by business partners Joe Bates and Chris Botting for a no-labels, no-bias blind tasting of three highly rated Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons: Double Diamond by Schrader, Faust Cabernet Sauvignon, and Salus by Staglin.

With reputations built on 90+ point scores and cult-level followings, these wines are put to the ultimate test — tasted blind, judged honestly, and debated openly. The conversation quickly moves beyond the glass as the hosts challenge the traditional 100-point wine rating system, questioning whether numerical scores still matter to modern consumers, restaurants, and wi...

In Episode 88 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by Crystalyn and Doug Hackett, owners and winemakers of Spicy Vines Winery, for an inspiring deep dive into entrepreneurship, winemaking, and terroir.

Crystalyn shares her remarkable journey from a naïve college graduate with a dream to building Spicy Vines into a respected boutique winery. The conversation explores the realities of launching a wine startup, the lessons learned along the path to growth, and what it truly takes to survive and thrive in today’s competitive wine industry.

Adam and Doug then step int...

In Episode 87 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by business partner Chris Botting as they welcome special guest Danielle Frank, author of A Wine Lover’s Guide to Parenting: The Fine Art of Wine & Whine Management. With co-host Joe Bates away for Thanksgiving, this episode shifts into an insightful and entertaining conversation that blends the worlds of wine, parenthood, and publishing.

Although no wine is consumed during this episode, the discussion is rich with perspective as Danielle shares the inspiration behind her book, her journey as an author, and how wine culture intersects wi...

In Episode 86 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer reunites with business partners Chris Botting and Joe Bates for one of the most festive episodes of the year. The trio breaks out the bubbles as they taste through a lineup of sparkling wines featured on the SoNapa menu — Mumm, Chandon, Domaine Carneros, and Schramsberg — each bringing its own expression of Napa and Sonoma elegance.

With the celebrations underway, the debate heats up fast. First: What’s the superior glass for sparkling wine — the traditional flute or the classic coupe? Expect strong opinions, expert insight, and a few surp...

In Episode 86 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer reunites with business partners Chris Botting and Joe Bates for one of the most festive episodes of the year. The trio breaks out the bubbles as they taste through a lineup of sparkling wines featured on the SoNapa menu — Mumm, Chandon, Domaine Carneros, and Schramsberg — each bringing its own expression of Napa and Sonoma elegance.

With the celebrations underway, the debate heats up fast. First: What’s the superior glass for sparkling wine — the traditional flute or the classic coupe? Expect strong opinions, expert insight, and a few surp...

In Episode 85 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer reunites with business partner Joe Bates and local legend, conspiracy theorist, and die-hard FSU fanatic Charley Barley for one of the most entertaining episodes yet.

The trio kicks things off with a tasting of SoNapa Wine Club selections from Foley Sonoma, Lincourt, and Silverado Vineyards—three California estates known for craftsmanship and character. Between sips, they dive into “The No Plan Plan,” a raw and humorous conversation about spontaneity, leadership, and life in the hospitality industry.

But the real debate ignites when the table turns to K-P...

In Episode 84 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer and business partner Joe Bates raise their glasses in honor of Napa Valley’s legendary winemaking history. As they prepare to host “The History of Napa in 4 Glasses,” a private wine dinner for the Rotary Club District 6970 Wine Fellowship, the two explore four iconic wines that defined generations of craftsmanship and innovation.

Together, Adam and Joe taste through Napa’s legacy:
🍷 Charles Krug – Napa’s first commercial winery and a symbol of California’s pioneering spirit
🍷 Beaulieu Vineyard (BV) Private Reserve Cabernet – a benchmark in American Cabernet exce...

In Episode 83 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer and business partner Joe Bates are joined by two incredible guests — Pablo Alfaro from Pacific Southern Wine Company and Chuck Spelman, VP of Sales for Robert Craig Winery.

Together, the group explores the legendary wines of Robert Craig Winery, known for crafting bold, structured Cabernet Sauvignon sourced primarily from the high-elevation vineyards of Howell Mountain. As they taste through the lineup, the conversation flows from the technical artistry behind mountain-grown fruit to the contrasting elegance of valley floor wines.

The debate heats up as they ta...

In Episode 82 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by his business partner Joe Bates and Marketing & Events Director Emily Dunbar for a special tasting of exclusive SoNapa Wine Club selections.

These wines aren’t available on retail shelves — you can only find them direct-to-consumer (DTC) or directly at the winery. This episode features two iconic Foley Family wineries:

Chateau St. Jean “8555” Red Blend – named after the winery’s historic address, this bold blend is listed at $85.

Ferrari-Carano Viognier & Sangiovese – two stunning expressions of lesser-known varietals, priced at $45 and $55 respectively.

As th...

In Episode 81 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer, business partner Joe Bates, and Marketing & Events Director Emily Dunbar host a captivating conversation with Andrew Hoxsey, proprietor of Ghost Block Winery and a 4th generation Napa Valley grape grower.

Together, they explore the rich history of Bonded Winery #9, one of Napa Valley’s most iconic and historically significant wineries. Andrew shares personal stories about his family’s deep roots in grape growing, the heritage of Ghost Block, and how his family has helped shape Napa’s reputation as a world-class wine region.

The conversation then p...

In this high-energy episode of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by business partner Joe Bates as they host the 4th Annual SoNapa Happy Hour 5K Run in Ormond Beach, Florida! 🏃‍♂️🍷

This special race-day episode brings the excitement of community, hospitality, and wine together. The hosts sit down with a lineup of guests — including Jeep Beach representatives, the Mayor of New Smyrna Beach, and local partners — as they celebrate fitness, fun, and food culture.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Grapes & Debates without wine! 🍇 Adam and Joe sample a stellar lineup from world-class producers...

In Episode 78 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is once again joined by business partner Joe Bates for a head-to-head blind tasting of four bold red wines: Priest Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) Roth Cabernet Sauvignon (Alexander Valley, Sonoma) Chockablock Red Blend (Napa Valley) The VineKeeper by Bonanza (California) The duo puts their palates to the test, uncovers which bottle rises to the top, and delivers honest opinions on flavor, structure, and value. 🍇 But this episode doesn’t stop with wine — Adam and Joe dive into a heated debate on the impact of Florida’s minimum wage increase for tippe...

In this special edition of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by longtime friend and fellow triathlete Chad Michaelson in Augusta, Georgia, just ahead of competing in a Half Ironman. Together, they discuss one of Adam’s favorite wines — Priest Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon — and share stories about training, endurance racing, and the balance between discipline and enjoyment. The conversation naturally turns into a lighthearted debate: Can you be a serious competitive athlete and still enjoy wine? From the rigors of triathalon preparation to the relaxation of savoring a bold Napa Cabernet, this episode blends the worlds of wine...

In Episode 76 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates explore the art of wine tasting and holiday wine buying. The team kicks things off by sampling a selection of Amici Wines, getting ready for the upcoming Feast of San Gennaro Wine Dinner at SoNapa Grille. Then, the conversation shifts to a debate every wine lover can relate to: Can you bring a $20 bottle of wine to a holiday party and still be proud of it? The hosts weigh in with real examples — Roth Cabernet Sauvignon, Decoy Merlot, and Chalk Hill Chardonnay — discussing quality, value, and...

In Episode 75 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates are joined by Emily Dunbar, Director of Marketing for SoNapa, along with special guest Andrew Hoxsey, owner of Ghost Block Winery in Napa Valley. Together, they uncork the rich history of the Pelissa family, who have been farming Napa Valley land for more than 120 years, and dive into the story behind Ghost Block’s celebrated wines. Andrew also shares the influential role his grandfather, Andrew Pelissa, played in the creation of the Napa Valley Agricultural Preserve, which helped protect the region’s vineyards and heritage for...

In Episode 74 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates taste through three incredible wines — Jax Winery Cabernet Franc, Inglenook 1882 Cabernet Sauvignon, and Elizabeth Rose Pinot Noir. The conversation kicks off with a look at SoNapa’s new menu, featuring exciting changes and an expanded wine list that highlights wines from a variety of Napa Valley AVAs. Using the 5 S’s of wine tasting — See, Swirl, Smell, Sip, and Savor — the hosts break down the flavors, structure, and style of each wine, giving listeners a true behind-the-glass experience. Then, the debate turns toward the industry hot topic...

In Episode 73 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates are joined by Marketing Director Emily Dunbar for another lively conversation blending wine tasting and bold debates. The team samples two Napa Valley classics — Sequoia Grove Chardonnay and Sequoia Grove Cabernet Sauvignon — while exploring the winemaker’s philosophy behind these beautifully crafted wines. Expect insights into Napa winemaking traditions, tasting notes, and how Sequoia Grove continues to set itself apart in the California wine scene. Then, the discussion takes a fun twist as the hosts debate the ever-growing list of quirky “National Today” holidays. From National R...

In Episode 72 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates welcome special guest Ray Shaefer, founder of Gravity Architecture + Design and the creative mind behind the design of both SoNapa Grille locations in Ormond Beach and Jacksonville Beach. Over glasses of Faust Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley, the group dives into Ray’s fascinating background as an architect, his transition into hospitality design, and the vision behind creating warm, inviting restaurant spaces that capture the spirit of Napa and Sonoma wine country. Ray also shares behind-the-scenes stories about some of his most memorable projects and cl...

In Episode 71 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates are joined by Marketing Director Emily Dunbar for a mix of wine tasting and rapid-fire business talk. The team samples some of their all-time favorite wines, including: Joe’s go-to favorite: EOS Pinot Grigio Adam’s pick: Priest Ranch Plus an all-star lineup: Roth Cabernet Alexander Valley, Silver Oak Cabernet Alexander Valley, Foley Johnson Napa Valley, Paradigm Oakville, Ghost Block Oakville, Trefethen Oak Knoll, and Frog’s Leap Rutherford. After the tasting, Emily puts Adam and Joe on the spot with rapid-fire questions about restaurant ownership—digging into the...

In Episode 70 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates welcome two industry guests: Andrew Dutell, Northeast Manager for Constellation Brands, and Alyssa Lasky, Regional Sales Representative for Icon Brands within the Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits portfolio. The conversation kicks off with a tasting of the Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, exploring its hallmark style and connection to the history of Napa winemaking. From there, the group tackles a hot-button industry topic — the recent sale of Woodbridge and Robert Mondavi Private Selection to The Wine Group — and whether these entry-tier wines have diluted the prestige of a N...

In this must-listen bonus episode of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates are joined by Marketing Director Emily Dunbar and the legendary Tim Hanni — the first American to earn the prestigious title of Master of Wine. Recorded over Zoom, this dynamic conversation dives into Tim’s incredible journey through the wine and hospitality industry — from his early career to becoming one of the most respected and unconventional voices in the world of wine. Known for challenging long-held industry myths, Tim pulls no punches as he explains why most of what we’ve been taught about food and wine...

In Episode 69 of Grapes & Debates, the band is back together! SoNapa Grille founders Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates reunite to sip, swirl, and debate some of the most iconic names in Napa Valley history. 🎙️ Featured Wines: Charles Krug Sauvignon Blanc – A crisp nod to Napa’s pioneering spirit Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon – A bold classic from Napa’s first commercial winery Robert Mondavi Fumé Blanc – The wine that redefined California Sauvignon Blanc 🍷 As they taste these historic wines, the hosts dive into a passionate debate: Who had the biggest impact on Napa Valley’s rise to global wine stardom? Charles...

In Episode 69 of Grapes & Debates, the band is back together! SoNapa Grille founders Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates reunite to sip, swirl, and debate some of the most iconic names in Napa Valley history.

🎙️ Featured Wines:

Charles Krug Sauvignon Blanc – A crisp nod to Napa’s pioneering spirit

Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon – A bold classic from Napa’s first commercial winery

Robert Mondavi Fumé Blanc – The wine that redefined California Sauvignon Blanc

🍷 As they taste these historic wines, the hosts dive into a passionate debate:

Who had the biggest...

In Episode 68 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Chris Botting welcome a special guest: Justin Botha, Northeast Florida Sales Manager for Caymus Vineyards. This episode features an exclusive tasting of two exciting new releases from the Caymus portfolio — Bonanza Chardonnay and Bonanza “The Vinekeeper” Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. These bold new wines deliver the quality and approachability Caymus is known for, and the team gives honest feedback for each. But the conversation doesn’t stop with wine. After the tasting, the debate heats up: Can you drink wine and still live a fit, healthy lifestyle? Adam, a triathle...

In Episode 67 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates are joined by Marketing Director Emily Dunbar for one of the most forward-thinking episodes yet. The trio explores the growing influence of AI in the wine and restaurant industry, asking the bold question:👉 Can artificial intelligence actually replace a sommelier? To test it out, they do what only Grapes & Debates would dare — they ask ChatGPT to recommend the wine lineup for the episode and drink two bottles that ChatGPT suggests. The result is a lively, hilarious, and thought-provoking debate that blends hospitality experience with cutting-edge tech trends. 🍷 Featured...

In Episode 66 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer and Marketing Director Emily Dunbar connect via Zoom with a special guest: Brandon Hanson, founder of Hanson of Sonoma Organic Vodka — a premium craft vodka distilled from organic grapes and produced in the heart of Sonoma County wine country. What’s a vodka doing on a wine podcast?Simple: Hanson Vodka is made from grapes — not grains — creating a bridge between the wine world and spirits. This episode dives deep into Hanson’s origin story, the family-owned distillery’s commitment to sustainability, and how crafting vodka from organic grapes delivers a cleaner, s...

In this festive 4th of July edition of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer and business partner Chris Botting are joined by Executive Chef Sean Connors for a red, white, and bold episode that celebrates American wine and barbecue culture. The trio blind tastes three powerhouse Red Zinfandels—O’Shaughnessy, Sin Zin, and Oakville Winery—and dives into how each wine stacks up when paired with classic BBQ fare. From smoky brisket to pulled pork and everything in between, they discuss flavor profiles, food pairing techniques, and what makes Red Zin the ultimate American cookout companion. Then the debate heats u...

In Episode 64 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer and business partner Chris Botting are joined by special guest Chad Truxall, Executive Director of the Marine Discovery Center in New Smyrna Beach. Together, they pour a glass of Trefethen Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley’s Oak Knoll District and dive into an inspiring conversation at the intersection of wine, sustainability, and conservation. As they sip this expressive Cabernet, the trio explores the mission of the Marine Discovery Center — from coastal restoration to environmental education — and uncovers how its principles align with the deep-rooted values of Napa and Sonoma winegrowers, who ch...

In Episode 63 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer and business partners Chris Botting and Joe Bates welcome special guest Jack Holcomb, local business owner and passionate Pinot Noir enthusiast, for an unfiltered and highly entertaining episode. The team kicks things off with a blind tasting of 2 Pinot Noir wines and a mystery wine, putting their palates to the test. As the glasses empty, the debates heat up… From California’s controversial road conditions — a topic close to anyone who’s driven through Napa or Sonoma — to a spirited conversation about the NFL and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jack brings a personal...

In Episode 62 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer and Marketing Director Emily Dunbar sit down with special guest Jake Lachowitzer, winemaker for Banshee Wines under the Foley Family Wines portfolio. Jake shares his inspiring journey from Fargo, North Dakota to the heart of Sonoma County, detailing his rise from enologist to head winemaker. The conversation dives into Jake’s educational path, the challenges and opportunities of crafting wines in California, and the unique qualities that define Banshee’s approach to winemaking. The episode features a tasting of several Banshee wines, showcasing the brand’s signature style and Sonoma terroi...

In Episode 61 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates sit down with special guest Emily Dunbar, Marketing Director for SoNapa Grille, to reflect on an unforgettable trip to California wine country hosted by Foley Family Wines. Together, they share behind-the-scenes stories, favorite moments, and top takeaways from their vineyard visits, private tastings, and conversations with some of the leading winemakers in Napa and Sonoma. From scenic views to standout vintages, this episode offers an insider’s look at what makes Foley Family Wines a key player in the industry. Whether you're a wine lover, restaurant professional, or...

In Episode 59 of Grapes & Debates, hosts Adam Barringer and Joe Bates are joined by Eddie Gallagher, General Manager of SoNapa Grille in New Smyrna Beach, for a special on-location recording at Roth Winery in Sonoma County. This immersive episode features an exclusive conversation with head winemaker Henry de Lambert and Nick Sijan, Southeast Regional Sales Manager for Foley Family Wines. The team dives deep into Henry’s winemaking background, his philosophy on crafting bold, expressive wines, and what makes Roth’s portfolio a standout in Sonoma’s Alexander Valley. As they taste through a curated selection of Roth wines, listeners get a...

In Episode 58 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates are joined by their dynamic marketing director, Emily Dunbar, for a lively and insightful conversation. Together, they welcome special guest Harley Aveiro, Regional Southeast Manager for the prestigious Paul Hobbs Winery. This engaging episode highlights an exclusive look into the Paul Hobbs portfolio, and discussions of Paul Hobbs.  Whether you're a wine enthusiast, restaurant owner, or marketing professional, this episode delivers a look inside the icon brand of Paul Hobbs.

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 show...

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 Ca...

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 th...

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...

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...

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-fue...

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...

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 episod...

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...

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...

In this special Presidents Day episode of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates explore wines that have been served at the White House, tasting through Silverado Sauvignon Blanc, Paul Hobbs Crossbarn Pinot Noir, and Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot—a wine flight available at all three SoNapa locations on Presidents Day. Beyond the tasting, Adam and Joe engage in a spirited debate: Which U.S. president drank the most wine? And who was the biggest advocate for California wines? From the Founding Fathers to modern leaders, they dive into presidential wine preferences, their impact on the American wi...

In Episode 46 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates put two exceptional wines to the test—Mer Soleil Silver Chardonnay and Decoy by Duckhorn Merlot. As they sip and savor, they dive into a lively debate: Which wine pairs best with cheese? From creamy Humbolt Fog to whipped burrata, Adam and Joe explore the nuances of pairing wine with different cheeses, breaking down the combinations for flavor balance, texture, and overall enjoyment. Whether you're a wine aficionado or just looking to elevate your next charcuterie board, this episode is packed with insights, tasting notes, and expert pa...

In this deliciously unique episode of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates explore a perfect pairing just in time for National Carrot Cake Day! They sample Wente Riesling from Livermore Valley, a bright, aromatic wine known for its balanced acidity and floral notes. Together, they dive into the art of wine and dessert pairings, discussing how the sweetness and spice of Carrot Cake complements the crisp, fruit-forward profile of this celebrated Riesling. Whether you're a wine lover, a restaurateur looking for creative pairings, or just a fan of indulgent treats, this episode is packed with insights...

In this exciting episode of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates explore the exceptional wines of ZD Winery, a celebrated producer in Napa Valley. While sampling ZD's renowned wines, the hosts tackle the intriguing question: does ZD stand for the founders’ names or the winery’s commitment to "Zero Defects"? Join the conversation as they sip, savor, and share their insights into ZD Winery's history, winemaking philosophy, and its place in Napa Valley’s prestigious wine landscape. Perfect for wine lovers and restaurant professionals alike, this episode blends tasting notes with captivating stories behind the la...

In Episode 43 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille owners Adam Barringer and Joe Bates take center stage as they explore a selection of wines from distributor Monsieur Touton. The highlight of the tasting is the Band of Vintners Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, alongside other exceptional wines from various AVAs. The duo engages in a lively debate over which wine stands out as the best—and whether it deserves a spot on the SoNapa Grille menu. With their expert insights and passion for wine, this episode is packed with tasting notes, industry perspectives, and a dash of friendly competition. Wine enthusiasts and re...

In this exciting episode of Grapes & Debates, the founders of SoNapa Grille—Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates—are joined by guest host "Fish," founder and owner of Yellow Dog Eats and a proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America. Together, they reflect on two standout articles, "15 Wines to Bring to a Party That Will Impress the Wine Snobbiest of Hosts" by Ray Isle and "15 Delicious Reds to Drink in the Winter" by Lucia Caprietta. From these expert-curated lists, they uncover two gems already featured on SoNapa Grille’s wine menu: Chalk Hill Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast) and Priest Ranch...

In this exciting episode of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founders Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates are joined by guest host Emily Dunbar, SoNapa Grille’s Marketing Director, for an unforgettable blind tasting experience. The team evaluates the #4 wine of the year as rated by Wine Spectator—Faust Cabernet Sauvignon—side by side with the acclaimed Buena Vista Cabernet from Napa Valley. After a blind tasting session, the decision is split between these two remarkable wines. Beyond the tasting, the group dives into a debate about the future of the wine industry as it grapples with declining consumption trends. Whethe...

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 w...

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 pa...

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 ex...

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 rest...

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 de...