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Grapes & Debates

Adam Barringer

We will drink wine and debate a varietal of issues facing the restaurant & wine industries

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20 episodes
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Avg 34 min
English

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Monday · 1 hr 4 min· Video
What Makes Great Napa Wine? Winemaker John Gibson of Salexis
Great wine begins long before it reaches your glass. Napa Valley winemaker John Gibson of Salexis joins Grapes & Debates to discuss his philosophy of growing grapes and making wine—and the experience behind it. Adam Barringer and Joe Bates sat down with John at SoNapa Grille in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, for a conversation spanning more than four decades in Napa Valley. After graduating from UC Davis, John began his career at Chappellet in 1981. He went on to work with Warren Winiarski at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars before becoming winemaker at Vine Cliff. In 1998, he launched his own label, Salexis. Together, we explore his journey, his approach to the vineyard, and the philosophy that guides his work today. If you enjoy understanding the people and decisions behind the wines you drink, subscribe to Grapes & Debates for more conversations with winemakers and wine industry leaders. What would you ask a winemaker with 45 years of Napa Valley experience? Leave your question in the comments. Learn more about Salexis: https://www.salexiswines.com Visit SoNapa Grille: https://www.sonapa.com #GrapesAndDebates #NapaValley #Winemaking
November 2 · 16 min· Video
Silver Oak & the 10 Steps to a Perfect Wine Dinner | Grapes & Debates Ep. 135
In Episode 135 of Grapes & Debates, we’re taking the show on location to SoNapa Grille in Daytona Beach Shores, Florida, where we recently celebrated our inaugural wine dinner featuring the iconic wines of Silver Oak. Adam Barringer and Joe Bates are joined by General Manager Nick Antalek and Assistant Manager Leslie Hall to taste Silver Oak wines, revisit our very first wine dinner at The Shores, and break down our 10 Steps to a Perfect Wine Dinner. From selecting the right winery and wines to designing a chef-inspired menu, coordinating the kitchen, training the service team, and creating an unforgettable guest experience, we’re sharing what really happens behind the scenes. And as we’ve learned over the years, even the best-planned wine dinners can come with a few surprises! In this episode: 🍷 Tasting and discussing Silver Oak wines 🥂 Celebrating our inaugural Silver Oak Wine Dinner at Daytona Beach Shores 📋 Our 10 Steps to a Perfect Wine Dinner 👨‍🍳 Pairing exceptional wines with a four-course culinary experience 🍽️ The challenges of executing a successful wine dinner 🎤 Stories, lessons, and a little friendly debate from the SoNapa leadership team Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a restaurant professional, or someone who simply loves a great wine dinner, there’s something here for you. Subscribe to Grapes & Debates for more conversations with winemakers, wine industry insiders, and the people who bring exceptional food and wine experiences to life.
October 24 · 1 hr 12 min· Video
Episode 134: Robert Foley — The God of Cabernet
Few winemakers have left a mark on Napa Valley quite like Robert Foley. Known throughout the wine industry as “The God of Cabernet,” Bob Foley joins Adam, Chris, and Joe for Episode 134 of Grapes & Debates to share stories from his extraordinary career in California winemaking. Our conversation takes us through his time at Markham Vineyards, his influential work at Pride Mountain Vineyards, and the creation of his own label, Robert Foley Vineyards. But this episode isn’t just about Cabernet Sauvignon. We taste our way through an outstanding selection of Robert Foley wines, starting with Chardonnay before moving into Charbono, Merlot, multiple Cabernet Sauvignon expressions, and Petite Sirah. Bob also shares his passion for music and the story behind the Robert Foley Band, proving that creativity doesn’t stop at the winery door. It’s an entertaining conversation with one of Napa Valley’s most respected winemakers, filled with wine, history, and stories from a life dedicated to the craft. Featured Wines: Robert Foley Chardonnay, Charbono, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon selections, and Petite Sirah. Featured Guest: Robert Foley, Robert Foley Vineyards Hosts: Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates Presented by: SoNapa Grille Taste • Toast • Together.
October 18 · 44 min· Video
Gary Farrell Winery: Great Wines, Great Stories, No Debate Necessary Episode 133
What happens when the wines are so good and the stories so interesting that there’s nothing left to debate? On this episode of Grapes & Debates, we welcome two special guests from Gary Farrell Winery: Doug Bensonberg, Director of National Sales, and Brent McCoy, Winemaker. Together, we take a journey into California’s Russian River Valley, exploring the history of one of Sonoma County’s celebrated wineries, the distinctive character of its wines, and the philosophy behind making exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Brent shares his approach to winemaking and the importance of allowing the vineyard and its unique growing conditions to express themselves in every bottle. Doug brings his perspective on the winery’s history, its wines, and what makes Gary Farrell such a compelling name in California wine. Of course, we couldn’t have a conversation like this without tasting some wine! We work our way through the Gary Farrell lineup available in the market, discussing what makes each wine special. And while our podcast is called Grapes & Debates, sometimes the best conversations aren’t debates at all. They’re opportunities to listen, learn, and appreciate the extraordinary people who dedicate their lives to making great wine. Pour yourself a glass, sit back, and join us for a fascinating conversation about wine, winemaking, and the magic of Sonoma County. Presented by SoNapa Grille, where our passion for wine country goes well beyond the glass. #GrapesAndDebates #GaryFarrellWinery #RussianRiverValley #SonomaWine #PinotNoir #Chardonnay #SoNapaGrille #WinePodcast
October 12 · 41 min· Video
Four Rodney Strong Cabernets. Four different expressions of Sonoma County. And one debate that might upset a few wine critics.
In Episode 132, we taste our way through Rodney Strong’s Sonoma Collection (Red Label), Sonoma County (White Label), Knights Valley (Blue Label), and Alexander Valley (Black Label) Cabernet Sauvignons. We explore what makes these wines different and how Sonoma County’s growing regions influence the final product. Then we tackle a question that’s been bothering us: Are professional wine descriptions actually helping people buy wine? Wine Spectator uses terms like ink, loam, cast iron, brambly, and iris to describe what’s in the glass. But does the average wine drinker know what those words mean? More importantly, do they care? Are wine critics educating consumers, or simply trying to impress one another? Join us for four solid Cabernets, some spirited debate, and a reminder that enjoying wine shouldn’t require a vocabulary lesson. Grapes & Debates — where great wine meets great conversation.
October 5 · 24 min· Video
Episode 131: 50 Years After the Judgment of Paris — A Spring Mountain Vineyard Vertical
This one comes with some serious Napa Valley history. In 1976, Spring Mountain Vineyard’s 1973 Chardonnay was poured at the legendary Judgment of Paris, finishing fourth among the white wines in the blind tasting that forever changed the world’s perception of California wine. Now, 50 years later, we’re opening Spring Mountain Vineyard again. Adam, Chris, and Joe sit down for a vertical tasting of the 2014, 2018, and 2019 vintages, exploring how the wines differ from year to year—and using them to tackle a question every wine drinker eventually faces: How much does vintage really matter when you’re buying everyday wine? Do you need to know whether 2018 was “better” than 2019? Should vintage charts influence what makes it into your cart? Or are we sometimes giving that little year on the label way too much power? And Spring Mountain Vineyard has more than wine history behind it. If the property looks like it belongs on television, there’s a reason: it served as a filming location for the 1980s TV series Falcon Crest. The Judgment of Paris. Falcon Crest. Three vintages spanning five years. And three guys ready to debate whether vintage really matters. 🍷 Pour a glass and join us for Episode 131 of Grapes & Debates.
September 20 · 46 min· Video
Is the Wine Industry Really in Trouble? | The Vineyard House with Charlie Plummer & Michael Sherman
Is the wine industry really facing tough times—or is the mainstream media making the story bigger than it is? On Episode 130 of Grapes & Debates, Adam steps away from his usual crew and sits down with Michael Sherman of 21 Wine & Spirits Distributors and Charlie Plummer, Global Director of Sales for The Vineyard House, the family-owned Napa Valley estate of Jeremy Nickel. Together, they taste through an extraordinary lineup of wines from The Vineyard House while digging into the realities of today’s wine business. Adam puts the big question to Charlie: What’s actually happening in the industry, and does the doom-and-gloom coverage match what people inside the business are seeing? And then there’s the wine. One bottle in particular stops Adam in his tracks—the 2013 The Vineyard House Cabernet Sauvignon. Great wine, candid industry conversation, and a Cabernet Adam won’t soon forget. Pour a glass and join the debate.
September 14 · 16 min· Video
Leave No Grape Behind! Wine, Happiness & a Magnum Debate
Adam & Joe are joined by Nick Antelek, Managing Partner of SoNapa’s The Shores location, for a big-bottle edition of Grapes & Debates. Their good friend Kim Braddock, Central Florida Market Manager for Foley Family Wines & Spirits, came through with something special—a magnum of Lancaster Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley. After sampling this incredible wine, the conversation turns to a question worth debating: Are the states drinking the most wine also the happiest? The guys dig into WalletHub’s rankings of the happiest states in America and compare them with the states consuming the most wine. Coincidence? Science? Or just another compelling reason to keep the corks popping? Then things get a little more serious. With wine sales reportedly down $1.2 billion and grapes being left on the vine, the industry could use a few more heroes. So consider this your call to action: Drink good wine. Support the industry. Be a Wine Hero. 🍇 Leave No Grape Behind! 🍷
September 6 · 20 min· Video
Episode 128: New Shores, New Pours & a $1.2 Billion Wine Problem
Adam and Joe are officially onsite at the newly opened SoNapa Grille in Daytona Beach Shores—and there’s only one appropriate way to celebrate: popping some Domaine Carneros Sparkling and raising a glass to opening night. From there, they dive into the September Wine Club selections from Stags’ Leap Winery, tasting and talking through the Viognier, Merlot, and Petite Sirah. Then the debate gets a little bigger. Joe brings up a news clip reporting that wine sales are down $1.2 billion, with some grape growers reportedly leaving as much as 20% of their grapes on the vine. What’s behind the slowdown? Are drinking habits changing? And what does it mean for wineries, growers, restaurants, and the future of wine? And because it’s opening night, there’s one more guest at the table: Chef Drayke makes a cameo to congratulate Adam and Joe and join them for a celebratory “toast” to a successful first night in Daytona Beach Shores. New location. Great wines. A wine industry worth debating. And a well-earned toast. Welcome to Episode 128 of Grapes & Debates.
August 31 · 19 min· Video
Episode 127: Cabernet, Controversy & the Catch of the Day
Adam & Joe pour a glass of Roth Cabernet from winemaker Henry de Lambert—a fitting choice considering Henry also provided 14 wine barrels that have found a second life as décor in the new restaurant. From there, the conversation turns to Napa and new revelations surrounding the Pickett Fire, which devastated nearly 7,000 acres in wine country. Adam & Joe unpack what’s coming to light and what it means for a region they know, love, and talk about often. Then it’s back to Florida and the new SoNapa Shores location, including a look at the restaurant’s “social media” kitchen and the opportunity it gives the chef to get creative. With access to fresh local seafood, daily fresh-catch features can keep the menu interesting—and give guests something new to discover and share. Wine, wildfire revelations, restaurant design, and fresh catch. Just another round of Grapes & Debates.
August 24 · 25 min· Video
Building The Shores: Restaurant Challenges, JACE Cellars & a New Daytona Beach Shores Location
In Episode 126, Adam and Joe are joined by Nick Antalek, managing partner of SoNapa’s new Daytona Beach Shores location, for an onsite conversation at “The Shores.” With the restaurant buildout underway, the guys get into the realities—and headaches—of opening a new restaurant in today’s business environment. From construction and costs to the unexpected challenges that come with bringing a new location to life, Nick gives an inside look at what it takes to get The Shores ready for opening. Naturally, this conversation requires wine. Adam, Joe, and Nick pour two wines from JACE Cellars: a Sauvignon Blanc-driven Bordeaux-style white blend and a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, made with grapes sourced from Pine Mountain-Cloverdale Peak in Sonoma County. They taste, compare, and—perhaps more than sample—the wines while debating the challenges facing restaurant owners and operators today. It’s wine, business, restaurant development, and a behind-the-scenes look at the newest SoNapa location—all filmed onsite in Daytona Beach Shores.
August 10 · 29 min· Video
Under $30 & Under Oath: Wine We Trust
Can you find a great bottle of wine for under $30? Adam, Chris, and Joe put that question to the test with six bottles from Kenny’s Liquors: three Sauvignon Blancs and three Cabernet Sauvignons, all priced under $30. They taste, compare, debate, and tell you exactly which bottles are worth your money—and which ones they’d leave on the shelf. No wine snobbery. No paid-sounding praise. Just three guys giving you their straight take on what’s in the glass. Then the conversation moves from wine we can trust to people we’re supposed to trust. The guys tackle reports surrounding Dr. Anthony Fauci invoking the Fifth Amendment 111 times and debate the bigger questions it raises about transparency, accountability, and trust in public officials. With wine, Adam, Chris, and Joe have one rule: tell the truth about what’s in the bottle. Maybe that’s not a bad standard for Washington, too. Six wines. All under $30. One debate that goes well beyond the glass. Grapes & Debates — where the wine is affordable, the opinions are uncorked, and trust is always up for discussion.
August 4 · 32 min· Video
Pouring Into the Dream: Building 95 & Vine
Adam and Chris welcome Chandler and Aly, the new owners of 95 & Vine, Port Orange's neighborhood wine shop, to share what it's really like to take the leap into small business ownership. As the conversation unfolds, Adam and Chris enjoy a JACE Cabernet, while Chandler and Aly pour an Aperture wine alongside a bold Argentinian Cabernet. Between tasting notes and great conversation, the group dives into the realities of entrepreneurship—from leaving the security of traditional careers to managing the daily challenges and rewards of running a small business. Is owning your own business everything people imagine, or is the reality far more complex? Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a supporter of local businesses, or simply looking for your next favorite bottle, this episode offers an honest, engaging discussion about chasing dreams, taking risks, and raising a glass to new beginnings. Featured Wines: JACE Cabernet Sauvignon Aperture Argentine Cabernet Sauvignon
July 26 · 50 min· Video
Episode 123: A Conversation Worth Savoring with Joseph Phelps President David Pearson
Some conversations are so engaging you never want them to end—and this was definitely one of them. In Episode 123 of Grapes & Debates, Adam and Joe are joined by David Pearson, President of the legendary Joseph Phelps Vineyards, one of the most iconic and respected winery brands in the world, and Doug SWGS market manager. It was an honor to welcome these distinguished guests as they shared the stories, philosophy, and craftsmanship behind two extraordinary wines: the 2023 vintage of Insignia and the 2022 Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon. From vineyard decisions and vintage character to the legacy of one of Napa Valley's most celebrated wineries, the conversation offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to produce world-class wines. With so many great stories and insights, this discussion could have easily gone on for hours. Whether you're a longtime Joseph Phelps admirer, a Napa Valley enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys hearing passionate people talk about their craft, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Pour yourself a glass and join us for an unforgettable conversation.
July 26 · 36 min· Video
Episode 122: Growth, Leadership & Volusia County with Councilman Danny Robbins
What does it take to lead one of Florida's fastest-growing counties—and what does that growth mean for local businesses? In Episode 122 of Grapes & Debates, Adam and Joe sit down with Volusia County Councilman Danny Robbins for a candid conversation about his journey into public service, the challenges and opportunities facing Volusia County, and the issues that will shape its future. With SoNapa preparing to open its third restaurant in Volusia County, the discussion explores what business owners and residents can expect as the county continues to grow, from infrastructure and economic development to community priorities and local government. Of course, no episode of Grapes & Debates would be complete without great wine. Throughout the conversation, Adam and Joe enjoy selections from JACE Cellars, adding the perfect pairing to an engaging discussion about leadership, growth, and the future of one of Florida's most dynamic communities. Pour a glass, pull up a chair, and join the conversation.
July 19 · 21 min· Video
Episode 121 | New Beginnings, New Leaders & Big Decisions
In this episode of Grapes & Debates, Joe and Adam welcome two key members of the SoNapa leadership team—Nick Antalek and Leslie Hall—for a conversation centered around growth, leadership, and the exciting future of The Shores SoNapa. The episode kicks off with everyone's favorite wines before shifting to some spirited debate surrounding the opening of the newest SoNapa location. Nick reflects on his journey from General Manager of SoNapa Ormond Beach to his new role as Managing Partner of The Shores SoNapa, while Leslie shares her perspective as one of the newest additions to the leadership team. Together, they discuss the opportunities, challenges, and decisions that come with opening a new restaurant, proving that great leadership—like great wine—is best enjoyed through conversation. In this episode: 🍷 The wines everyone is enjoying 🎉 Nick's promotion to Managing Partner of The Shores SoNapa 👥 Welcoming Leslie Hall to the leadership team 🏗️ Behind-the-scenes discussions on opening a new restaurant 🎙️ Friendly debates on leadership, operations, and preparing for launch Whether you're passionate about hospitality, leadership, or simply enjoy great conversations over great wine, this episode offers an inside look at what it takes to build something special. Pour a glass and join the debate.
July 13 · 35 min· Video
Three Zins, Two BBQ Joints & One Big AI Debate: Can Technology Build a Better Restaurant?
In this flavorful episode of Grapes & Debates, Adam, Joe, and Chris put their palates to the test with a double blind tasting challenge. First, the guys sample three California Zinfandels without knowing what's in the glass: Sin Zin by Alexander Valley Vineyards Home Base by BACA (the sister winery to Hall Wines) Rubicon Estate Edizione Pennino Red Zinfandel Then they raise the stakes by pairing the wines with blind samples of BBQ from a couple of local restaurants, debating which smoked meats deserve a return visit—and which pair best with bold California Zinfandel. But the conversation doesn't stop at food and wine. As plans move forward for their new restaurant in The Shores, the discussion shifts to one of today's hottest topics: Artificial Intelligence. Can AI make the construction process faster, smarter, and more efficient? Where should technology help, and where should human experience still lead the way? The hosts dive into the opportunities, concerns, and real-world implications of bringing AI into restaurant development. From bold reds and smoky barbecue to the future of construction, this episode serves up plenty to taste—and even more to debate. Pour a glass, grab a plate, and join the conversation.
July 6 · 35 min· Video
The Great American Debate: America’s Most Iconic Winery, Brewery & Distillery
What defines an American icon? Is it a legendary winery, a trailblazing brewery, or a game-changing distillery? In this special episode of The Great American Debate, Adam, Joe, Chris, and guest host Charley Barley pour, taste, and debate three of the country's most recognizable beverage brands—each representing the pinnacle of American wine, beer, and spirits. From history and craftsmanship to cultural impact and taste, the panel weighs what truly makes a brand iconic. Along the way, expect spirited conversation, surprising opinions, plenty of laughs, and perhaps a few controversial picks. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, craft beer fan, whiskey lover, or simply enjoy a great debate, this episode raises a glass to the brands that helped shape America's drinking culture—and asks the ultimate question: Which one deserves the title of the most iconic American beverage brand?
June 28 · 29 min· Video
Rosé, Rising Costs & Real Ownership | Grapes & Debates
Summer is officially in the glass as Adam, Chris, Joe, and guest host Doug Long are joined by a mortgage specialist for an entertaining conversation that blends wine, business, and today's economic realities. The crew kicks things off by tasting three standout rosé wines perfect for warm-weather sipping: Jax Y3 Rosé Ferrari-Carano Rosé A classic Rosé from Provence From there, the discussion shifts from the vineyard to the balance sheet. Is owning a home really more expensive than owning a restaurant? The panel explores the financial realities, hidden costs, and risks behind two very different investments before tackling another headline making waves—Apple's latest price increases and what they say about today's economy and consumer expectations. Whether you're a wine lover, homeowner, entrepreneur, or just enjoy a spirited debate, this episode delivers plenty to sip on and think about. In this episode: Rosé wine recommendations for summer Tasting notes on three distinctive rosés Home ownership vs. restaurant ownership: Which is the bigger financial commitment? A mortgage expert's perspective on today's housing market Apple's price increases and what they mean for consumers Great conversation, friendly debate, and plenty of laughs Grab a glass, join the conversation, and let us know—which side of the debate are you on?
June 25 · 31 min· Video
From Walt to Katherine Hall: Exploring One of Napa’s Most Iconic Wine Portfolios
In this episode of *Grapes & Debates*, Adam and Joe welcome Tony Azzollini, Sales Representative for Winebow Group, and Patrick Madden, Florida Sales Manager for Hall Wines, for an engaging tasting and discussion featuring some of Napa Valley's most celebrated wines. The journey begins with the elegant wines of Walt Wines, showcasing the beauty of site-driven Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, before moving into the bold and adventurous portfolio of BACA Wines. The conversation then turns to Hall Wines, where the group explores the craftsmanship and philosophy behind one of Napa Valley's premier Cabernet Sauvignon producers. The tasting reaches its peak with Katherine Hall Cabernet Sauvignon, the flagship wine that represents the highest expression of the Hall portfolio. Along the way, Tony and Patrick share insights into the vineyards, winemaking approach, and the stories that have helped shape these iconic brands. As always, the wine is only part of the conversation. The episode wraps up with a spirited debate on the use of the Coravin wine preservation system—is it an essential tool for wine lovers or an unnecessary gadget? Adam, Joe, Tony, and Patrick each weigh in, making for a lively finish that every wine enthusiast will appreciate. From Pinot Noir to powerhouse Cabernet—and a little wine-tech controversy—this episode offers plenty to sip, savor, and debate.

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