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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

**Episode 15: Grapes & Debates - Exploring Caymus Wines & Post-Pandemic Restaurant Industry Trends**

Join us for Episode 15 of Grapes & Debates, presented by SoNapa Grille and hosted by owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates. In this episode, we dive into the exquisite flavors of Caymus wines while unveiling the exciting launch of our new wine club. Our debate centers on the pressing question: Is the restaurant industry better or worse off compared to pre-pandemic years? Tune in for an engaging discussion, expert wine sampling, and valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the hospitality sector.

Join us for Episode 16 of Grapes & Debates, presented by SoNapa Grille and hosted by owners Adam Barringer, Chris Botting, and Joe Bates. This episode features a delightful wine tasting from Silverado Vineyards, showcasing their exquisite selections. Our special guest host, Kim Braddock of Foley Family Wines, joins the conversation, along with Silverado Vineyards winemaker Alison Rodriguez.

In this episode, we explore the rich history and unique flavors of Silverado Vineyards' wines. Kim Braddock and Alison Rodriguez share their insights into the winemaking process, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what makes these wines truly exceptional. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a novice, this episode promises to be both informative and entertaining.

Tune in to discover the nuances of Silverado Vineyards' offerings, gain expert knowledge from our distinguished guests, and enjoy the lively debate on the latest trends in the wine industry. Don't miss out on this exciting episode of Grapes & Debates, where wine tasting meets engaging conversation.

Episode 14 of *Grapes & Debates*, presented by SoNapa Grille and its founder, Adam Barringer. This week, Adam is joined by special guest host Colby Sumner, Marine veteran and host of the *America Fog of War* podcast. Together, they sample and discuss wines from Duckhorn and Frog's Leap. The lively debate begins with the visit to Duckhorn and delves into the merits of the greatest wine-growing regions: Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Tune in for passionate discussions, and a celebration of the finest wines California has to offer.