Episode 89: Grapes & Debates | Blind Tasting Schrader Double Diamond, Faust & Salus by Staglin | Rethinking Wine Ratings

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 wine professionals. Adam, Joe, and Chris break down: How point scores influence buying decisions in restaurants and retail Whether blind tasting reveals uncomfortable truths about “top-rated” wines Why consumers are trusting experience, storytelling, and personal taste over critics A newly proposed alternative wine rating system designed to be more relatable, honest, and guest-friendly This episode is equal parts wine education, industry critique, and spirited debate — perfect for wine lovers, sommeliers, restaurant owners, and anyone curious about how wines should be evaluated today. If you enjoy Napa Valley Cabernet, blind tastings, insider wine conversations, and bold opinions that challenge the status quo, Episode 89 delivers. 🍷 Wines Featured: Double Diamond by Schrader Faust Cabernet Sauvignon Salus by Staglin 🎙 Grapes & Debates is presented by SoNapa Grille, where Napa and Sonoma wines meet honest conversation and real-world hospitality experience.