Grapes & Debates

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...

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 allowi...

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 wo...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 restaur...

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 fr...

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.

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 fa...

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 mo...

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 co...

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 disc...

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 fo...

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 lo...

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 maki...

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...

What happens when you put three turkey and provolone subs, two iconic wines, and a couple of strong opinions at the same table? In this episode of Grapes & Debates, Adam and Joe put Publix, Jersey Mike’s, and Firehouse Subs head-to-head in a tasting battle to determine which turkey and provolone sandwich deserves the crown. But they didn’t stop there. After debating the best sub, they took things a step further by pairing each sandwich with two very different California wines: the rich, creamy Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay and the bold, fruit-forward Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon. Would the buttery Chardonnay comp...

What happens when you combine a blind wine tasting with a conversation about global economics? In this episode of Grapes & Debates, the hosts put their palates to the test with two blind matchups. First, JACE Cellars Sauvignon Blanc (Sonoma) squares off against ZD Sauvignon Blanc (Napa). Then the reds take center stage as JACE Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon faces The Debate Cabernet from Artalade Vineyard. The tasting sparks plenty of surprises, but the conversation quickly expands beyond the glass. The debate shifts to the ongoing conflict involving Iran and its impact on global energy markets. As oil prices fluctuate and fuel...

After nearly 20 years of serving and consuming the wines of Sonoma County and Napa Valley through SoNapa Grille, Joe, Adam, Chris, and Eddie are finally pouring a wine of their own. In this special episode of Grapes & Debates, the four longtime friends and business partners share the story behind the launch of JACE Cellars—the culmination of two decades spent building relationships, discovering exceptional vineyards, and pursuing a vision that was always bigger than the bottle. The conversation explores why they chose the rugged, high-elevation Pine Mountain-Cloverdale Peak AVA, how their partnership with acclaimed winemaker Doug Hackett brought the project to...

Adam, Joe, and Chris are coming to you live from the front lawn of the historic Hennessey Estate Bed & Breakfast in Napa, reflecting on what’s already been an unforgettable SoNapa adventure. Between hosting the SoNapa Wine Club, working alongside the culinary team, and gearing up for upcoming tastings and winery tours with the General Managers, the trip has quickly turned into equal parts production, hospitality, and organized chaos. The crew laughs about the realities of driving cross-country packed with catering equipment, cooking gear, and enough supplies to launch a traveling kitchen — all while trying to keep the wine flowing for...

dam & Joe head deep into Napa Valley for a behind-the-scenes look at some of wine country’s most iconic destinations. Filming from the beautifully remodeled Hennessey Estate — a luxury Bed & Breakfast that has hosted Grapes & Debates wine club members — the episode blends wine, hospitality, travel, and the stories that make Napa unforgettable. Along the way, they visit legendary wineries including Caymus, Ghost Block, and Chappellet, sharing the atmosphere, experiences, and moments that make each stop unique. From estate views and Cabernet conversations to wine club memories and insider Napa culture, this episode captures the lifestyle behind the label. Whether you're a seri...

Adam and Jade sit down with Anthony Tirello, Fine Wine Specialist at Breakthru Beverage, and Gavin Honig, fourth-generation vintner at Honig Vineyards. From the heart of Rutherford, they taste through the portfolio while unpacking what makes this historic Napa estate tick. The conversation blends legacy and logistics—diving into vineyard history, family stewardship, and how wines move from cellar to market. A grounded look at tradition, distribution, and what it takes to stay relevant in Napa today.

Adam, Joe, and Jade are joined by Jacob Jata, Southeast Regional Sales Manager for Chappellet, for a deep dive into one of Napa Valley’s most respected family-owned wineries. From Pritchard Hill terroir to the evolution of mountain-grown Cabernet, the group explores what makes Chappellet wines distinctive—while tasting through the lineup and debating what truly defines Napa excellence.

Episode 109 brings something new to the table—literally. Adam and Joe are joined by Jade Sullivan, the team’s new Event and Marketing Coordinator.  To break Jade in properly, they throw her straight into a blind tasting featuring three very different wines: an Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, a California Merlot, and a French Bordeaux blend. Without labels (or safety nets), assumptions get challenged, palates get tested, and the results don’t go exactly as expected. Along the way, Jade gets introduced to one of the more “colorful” wine descriptors—grippy—and starts to find her footing in the language of wine. After the...

In Episode 108, Adam, Chris, and Jade sit down with Todd Kerlin, General Manager of THE DEBATE, for a conversation that feels almost inevitable. What started as a shared name turns into a deeper connection—exploring how THE DEBATE wine brand came to be, and how its philosophy aligns (and clashes) with the spirit of Grapes & Debates. The real discussion unfolds in the glass. Tasting two single-vineyard expressions crafted from the same grape, by the same winemaker, using the same production methods, the group dives into what truly sets them apart: terroir. Soil, climate, and place become the deciding voice in a...

In Episode 107 of Grapes & Debates, Adam Barringer and Jade Sullivan sit down with Michael Cooperman, Senior Director of DTC & Private Clients at Taub Family Companies, for a conversation that blends legacy, strategy, and the making of a modern Napa standout. The episode explores two distinct wines in the Taub portfolio — a refined Chardonnay and the highly talked-about Sign of the Dove Cabernet Sauvignon. With a perfect 100-point score and crafted by renowned winemaker Jesse Katz, Sign of the Dove is quickly entering the conversation as one of Napa Valley’s newest cult wines. But what actually makes a “cult wine” today? I...

In this episode of Grapes & Debates, Adam and Joe are joined by two new voices—Jade Sullivan, our Social Media & Events Coordinator, and Andy Flores, Joe’s brother-in-law—for a conversation that mixes fresh perspective with deep-rooted Napa context. The group tastes wines from some of Napa Valley’s legacy landowners and wineries, reflecting on what it means to build something that lasts across generations. That sets the stage for the debate: Could someone start a winery from the ground up in Napa today—and actually make money? They dig into: The real cost of entering the Napa wine business in 2025 Th...

Adam and Joe, owners of SoNapa Grille, revisit one of the most iconic moments in wine history — the Judgment of Paris — by sampling a lineup of Napa wines that helped define it. Joined by Jade Sullivan, the newest member of the SoNapa team, they taste through Château Montelena, Grgich Hills’ commemorative Chardonnay, Clos du Val Cabernet, Stag’s Leap SLV, and Heitz Cellars Cabernet. With a fresh perspective from a younger wine drinker and deep industry insight from the hosts, the group debates which Chardonnay and Cabernet stand out today. The tasting also sets the stage for an upcoming pairing d...

In Episode 104 of Grapes & Debates, the founder of SoNapa Grille sits down with Justin Botha, North Florida East Market Manager for Caymus Vineyards, for a conversation centered on Caymus, its wine portfolio, and a growing partnership with SoNapa. Together, they explore what makes Caymus such a recognized name in wine while tasting through two standout selections: Jenny Wagner’s Nurseryman Cabernet and Caymus Special Select. The episode blends insight from the market side with real-time tasting, offering perspective on both the wines and how they connect with guests. They also reflect on the ongoing SoNapa x Caymus partnership, including the ye...

In Episode 103 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer and business partner Joe Bates sit down onsite at the SoNapa Grille Jacksonville Beach location with a very special guest — Steve Reynolds, founder of Reynolds Family Winery in Napa Valley and creator of Penta Tequila. This episode delivers an incredible tasting journey that moves from premium tequila to world-class Napa Valley wines. The conversation begins with a sampling of Penta Cristalino Tequila and Penta Reposado Tequila, where Steve shares the craftsmanship, philosophy, and innovation behind one of the most exciting tequila brands in the premium spirits market. From there, the co...

In Episode 102 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer sits down onsite in Daytona Beach Shores at the future home of the newest SoNapa Grille location. Joining Adam is SoNapa partner Joe Bates and Nick Antalek, current General Manager of SoNapa Grille in Ormond Beach and the future General Manager and business partner at this exciting new restaurant. Recorded inside the newly leased building, the team opens an incredible lineup of wines from ZD Wines, one of Napa Valley’s most respected wineries. ZD Wines are currently being featured across all SoNapa Grille locations as the Wine Club Wines of...

In Episode 101 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founders Adam Barringer and Joe Bates record onsite at their Jacksonville Beach location for an unforgettable Napa Valley masterclass featuring Renée Roscoe, National Sales Manager for Grgich Hills Estate, and Tony Terello of Aspect Fine Wines (Breakthru Beverage Distributors). This milestone episode uncorks a powerhouse lineup from Grgich Hills Estate — Sauvignon Blanc (Fumé Blanc), Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Reserve Cabernet — while diving deep into the legacy that helped shape modern Napa Valley. Renée breaks down key wine terminology, vineyard philosophy, and the historic impact of Mike Grgich — the legendary winemaker behind Ch...

Reaching 100 episodes is a milestone fewer than 6% of all podcasts ever achieve — and in Episode 100 of Grapes & Debates, we celebrate the only way we know how: with legendary Napa Valley wine and a conversation rooted in history, legacy, and excellence. SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by business partner Joe Bates (with Chris Botting traveling in Park City) as they welcome special guest Olav Goelet, third-generation owner of Clos du Val. Together, they taste and discuss: 🍷 Clos du Val Sauvignon Blanc🍷 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon🍷 Yettalil — the flagship estate blend The conversation goes deep into the rich history of Clos du Val...

In Episode 99 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by partners Chris Botting and Joe Bates for a truly unforgettable tasting experience. Special guest Richard England — SoNapa Wine Club member, passionate collector, and former Executive Director of The Hub on Canal — brings a rare treasure to the table: a 32-year-old 1994 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The episode features a side-by-side tasting of the 1994 Silver Oak Alexander Valley and the 2019 Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon — a powerful comparison of old-world elegance versus modern Napa structure. Beyond the glass, the conversation expands into the cultural heartbeat of New Sm...

Episode 98 of Grapes & Debates is a powerful, reflective, and deeply human conversation at the intersection of wine, storytelling, and lifelong passion. SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by business partner Chris Botting as they welcome legendary wine journalist Thomas Matthews and acclaimed wine photographer Sara Matthews for an unforgettable episode rooted in friendship, creativity, and the enduring culture of wine. The episode opens with a tasting of Amici Sauvignon Blanc—a fitting starting point, as Amici means “friends” in Italian, and friendship sits at the heart of this conversation. From there, Thomas shares his remarkable journey: from leaving a gradua...

In Episode 96 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by business partner Joe Bates for a special leadership-focused episode recorded during the company’s 2026 planning session. This conversation brings together the people driving SoNapa Grille forward—past, present, and future. The episode opens with SoNapa’s Executive Chef Sean and Ormond Beach General Manager Nick Antalek, offering insights into culinary direction, operational alignment, and leadership priorities for the year ahead. Midway through the discussion, the panel shifts to welcome Eddie Gallagher, General Manager of SoNapa Grille New Smyrna Beach and a 16-year veteran of the company, alongside Leila...

Episode 97:  In Episode 97 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by business partner Joe Bates for a powerhouse conversation at the intersection of winemaking, presentation, and perception. The hosts welcome Tony Granata, proprietor of Implicit Wines, and Steve Gage, General Manager of Parallel Wines. Adding even more depth to the discussion are the two most respected names in modern winemaking: Curt Venge and Philippe Melka, the winemakers for Implicit and Parallel respectively. Together, the group tastes through select wines from Implicit and Parallel, offering behind-the-scenes insight into winemaking philosophy, stylistic intent, and how decisions in the cellar t...

In Episode 93 of Grapes & Debates, SoNapa Grille founder Adam Barringer is joined by his business partners Joe Bates and Chris Botting for an in-depth tasting and timely industry conversation centered on Wagner Family Wines, the iconic family behind the legendary Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon. As the trio samples and discusses wines from the Wagner portfolio, they explore what has made the Wagner name synonymous with consistency, brand strength, and commercial success in the American wine market. The conversation then shifts to the broader challenges facing today’s wine industry, including changing consumer preferences, generational shifts, market saturation, pricing pressures, and evolving di...