Welcome to another delightful episode of "Beats Vines & Life!" I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we're diving deep into the world of winemaking with our special guest, Abby Stamp Wilkins, co-owner and winemaker at Lakewood Vineyards. In this episode, Abby shares her fascinating journey through different wine regions— from the lush landscapes of New Zealand to the sun-soaked vineyards of Florida and the cool, aromatic corridors of Oregon. We'll explore Abby's adventures and techniques in cr...
Aug 05, 2024•36 min
Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! Today, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Matt Naumann, a seasoned pro in the wine industry. Matt's journey has taken him from the vineyards of Lodi to owning his own project, Newfound Wines. He's also played a pivotal role in expanding Wade Cellars, helmed by NBA icon Dwayne Wade, and has gathered invaluable insights from his experiences across the globe. In this episode, we'll delve into Matt's fascinating career—from the challe...
Jul 29, 2024•1 hr 28 min•Season 7Ep. 166
Welcome back, wine lovers! This is your host MJ Towler, and you’re tuned into another delectable episode of Beats Vines & Life. Today, we’re diving into the heart of Finger Lakes Wine Country with a very special guest, Alex Jankowski, the VP of Brand Development for Wagner Vineyards and the marketing chair of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. In this episode, we explore the collaborative spirit that thrives in the wine industry, the booming growth of wineries in the Finger Lakes, and the emphasis ...
Jul 22, 2024•39 min
Welcome back, everyone, to another exciting episode of Beats, Vines & Life. I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have a truly inspiring guest joining us – Jordan Harris, the phenomenal winemaker at Heron Hill Winery in the Finger Lakes. Jordan's journey into the world of wine is nothing short of fascinating. From initially avoiding chemistry to winning a prestigious sommelier competition, and from Canada to the cool climate of Virginia and now the Finger Lakes, his story is a testament to ...
Jul 22, 2024•37 min
Welcome back to another exciting episode of "Beats Vines & Life"! Today, we have the pleasure of diving deep into the fascinating journey of Jeb Dunnuck, a renowned wine critic who transitioned from an aerospace engineering career to become one of the most respected voices in the wine industry. Our host MJ Towler sits down with Jeb to discuss his multifaceted career path, from working at leading companies like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace to the grueling, solitary life of a professiona...
Jul 15, 2024•1 hr 29 min•Season 7Ep. 165
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Beats Vines & Life"! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have an extraordinary guest, the multi-talented Billy Bollotino. Billy, known for his remarkable 25-year career with Conan O'Brien, takes us on a compelling journey through the vibrant music and nightlife of downtown New York, his days at Fordham University, and his early foray into television with "Rocker Room." We'll dive deep into the gig economy in the entertainment industry, featuring fas...
Jul 10, 2024•1 hr 46 min•Season 7Ep. 164
Welcome to another exciting bonus episode of Beats Vines & Life! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we're broadcasting live from the vibrant Vinexpo in New York City. We're diving into the world of wine and spirits with a stellar lineup of guests, all shining lights in the industry. Join us as we chat with Sylvain Faureau, the Director of Marketing & Communications for Vineposium, about organizing global business-to-business events that connect buyers and producers. We'll explore emergi...
Jul 02, 2024•1 hr 33 min
Welcome to Beats Vines & Life! Today we are revisiting our milestone 50th episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, where I sat down with none other than former NBA star, podcasting powerhouse, NBA Analyst and new head coach of the Los Angeles Laker sJJ Redick! Welcome to Beats Vines & Life! Today we are revisiting our milestone 50th episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, where I sat down with none other than former NBA star, podcasting powerhouse, NBA Analyst and new head coach of th...
Jun 24, 2024•1 hr 31 min
Welcome back to "Beats, Vines & Life!" In this episode we have a special conversation with Fanny Spironelli, the founder of Le Alabouche. Together with our host, MJ Towler, we'll delve into the intricacies of the upcoming VINEXposium event. From its comprehensive planning process to its global representation, we'll explore how this wine and spirits trade show has evolved since its Bordeaux roots in the 80s and 90s, and its impact on the industry. We'll touch on everything from industry trend...
Jun 18, 2024•53 min
Recorded Live at Hospice du Rhone Walla Walla. Welcome back to another exciting episode of Beats Vines & Life! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have a special treat for you. We're diving deep into the world of wine, sports, and the incredible journey of our distinguished guest, former NFL star turned vintner, Sidney Rice. In this episode, we explore the powerful lessons learned from others, the fascinating beginnings of my wine journey in Minnesota, and the unique challenges and triump...
Jun 10, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Season 7Ep. 163
Recorded Live at Hospice du Rhone Walla Walla. Welcome to another thrilling episode of "Beats Vines & Life." I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today, we have an inspiring guest who embodies the true spirit of passion and perseverance. Join me as we dive into the extraordinary journey of Peter Andrews, the founder of Culture Wine Company, specializing in South African wines from independent producers. From reorganizing a reserve room in retail to mastering the art of winemaking in Italy, Peter's ...
Jun 03, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 7Ep. 162
Welcome to another episode of "Beats Vines & Life" where we delve into the cultural and emotional significance of wine as a product. Join host MJ Towler along with guests Prema Korellis and Ryan Prichard of Three Sticks Wines as they share their unique experiences in the world of wine, discussing everything from rare vintages to the challenges and joys of winemaking. From exploring the impact of wine critics to the importance of authenticity in the industry, this episode promises to take you...
May 28, 2024•1 hr 45 min•Season 7Ep. 161
Hey everyone, welcome back to a BONUS episode of Beats Vines & Life! Today, I sit in with Sam Coturri & Brian Casey of The Winemakers Pod as we have an extraordinary guest join us—Todd Alexander, a trailblazing winemaker who decided to shake things up by exploring the Pacific Northwest Todd shares personal stories about his passion for wine, the changing landscapes of downtown Walla Walla, and his thoughts on the future of the wine industry. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a lover of t...
May 20, 2024•50 min
Welcome to another captivating episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where we blend the rich worlds of music, wine, and personal journeys. Today's episode features the intriguing Randall Grahm, a vintner and trailblazer in the wine industry, renowned for founding Bonny Doon Vineyard and his innovative approaches to winemaking. In this session, we dive into Randall's colorful background, starting from his youthful days in Los Angeles to his philosophical studies at UC Santa Cruz, and how these exp...
May 13, 2024•1 hr 45 min•Season 7Ep. 160
Welcome to this week’s episode of Beats Vines & Life, where we journey into the fascinating intersections of culture, sports, and the wine industry with our guest David Bowler. This episode takes a deep dive into David's unique career trajectory, transitioning from a budding musician navigating the vibrant punk scenes of New York City to becoming a revered figure in the wine industry. We'll explore his days at the iconic wine shop Crossroads, his encounters with film and music legends, and u...
May 06, 2024•1 hr 39 min•Season 7Ep. 159
Welcome to this exciting episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where we're diving into a world of innovation and passion with our guest, Alex Mackh. Alex, the founder of Grassl Glass and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, is here to share his unique journey from the ski slopes of Austria to the world stage of wine glass design. Discover how Alex's heritage, education, and love for craftsmanship have shaped his approach to creating exquisite mouth-blown glassware that enhances the wine tasting experien...
Apr 30, 2024•1 hr 28 min•Season 7Ep. 158
Welcome to another captivating episode of Beats Vines & Life, where the rhythm of music meets the swirl of the glass. I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have the incredible Tegan Passalaqua, winemaker for Turley Wine Cellars and owner of Kirschenmann Vineyard, joining us to uncork a vintage conversation. In this episode, we'll venture through the fertile grounds of Lodi, California, and beyond, sipping the rich stories that lie within each vineyard. Tegan brings her deep-rooted passion f...
Apr 22, 2024•1 hr 52 min•Season 7Ep. 157
Welcome back to "Beats Vines & Life," where the melodies of music, the enchantment of wine, and the narratives of life converge. I'm your host, MJ Towler. Today, we uncork the essence of wisdom and wine with a very special guest: Lettie Teague, the renowned wine columnist for the Wall Street Journal and multi-time James Beard Award winner. This episode delves deep into Lettie's intriguing journey from a liquor store to the lustrous halls of wine-writing prominence. We get personal as Lettie ...
Apr 17, 2024•1 hr 35 min•Season 7Ep. 156
Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life, the podcast where melodies meet Merlot, and the rhythms of life blend with the bouquet of the vine. In today's special pour, we raise our glasses to the indomitable spirit of Jenna Fields, the maven of German wine, who turned a flood of challenges into a vintage of success. From her unassuming beginnings in Eagan, Minnesota, to the aromatic vineyards of Germany's Ahr Valley, Jenna's journey is as complex and compelling as the Pinot Noir ...
Apr 08, 2024•1 hr 39 min•Season 7Ep. 155
Welcome to another episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where the rhythm of music meets the richness of wine culture. Today's episode features a special and insightful conversation with the innovative winemaker, Aaron Jackson. Join us as we uncork the story behind his unique wine blend, “The Trespasser” which started in 2010, and his journey from a passionate youth to an established name in the wine industry. Aaron shares his excitement for the ever-evolving winemaking process, the highs, the ch...
Apr 08, 2024•1 hr 26 min•Season 7Ep. 154
Welcome to "Beats, Vines, & Life," the intersection where rhythm meets the grape and individual stories blend into the rich tapestry of life. I'm your host, MJ Towler, coaxing the culture from the creatives and the passion from the producers all over a shared bottle of the finest vintages. In today's episode, we're uncorking a special blend of conversation with the multifaceted Dane Curley — an artist, a designer, a man who paints the stories of wines onto the very labels that grace their bo...
Apr 08, 2024•1 hr 24 min•Season 7Ep. 153
Hello, wine enthusiasts, and welcome back to another stirring episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience. Today's show takes us into the heart of Paso Robles as we swirl, sip, and savor the story of Jada Vineyards. Joining us are none other than the dynamic duo of the vineyard, General Manager Josh Messina and head winemaker Nate Hall. They share with us an intimate glimpse into their journey from Nate's mentorship under Josh to taking the bold leap into winemaking decisions that shape the landsca...
Apr 01, 2024•1 hr•Season 6Ep. 152
Welcome back to another episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today's episode is about an incredible journey from the ball fields of LA to the vineyards of Santa Barbara. Joining us is none other than Mac Myers, a maverick in the wine world known for creating wines of exceptional balance and value. In this episode, we'll dive into Mac's early years, swapping the glove for a corkscrew as a devastating injury shifted his path from aspiring pro athlete to wine prod...
Mar 18, 2024•1 hr 39 min•Season 6Ep. 151
Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we're pouring a full-bodied episode with an extraordinary guest, Vailia From, a trailblazing winemaker who has carved her own path in the wine industry with Desparada Wines. Join us as we uncork Vailia's remarkable journey—from her early days working in steakhouses in La Jolla to that fateful moment circling wine job ads with a roommate and diving into the art of telephone sales at Gerhardt Wines. Vailia shares he...
Mar 11, 2024•1 hr 27 min•Season 6Ep. 150
Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we're pouring into an intoxicating episode featuring the extraordinary Justin Smith. Get ready to uncork the story of a winemaker who has cultivated a legacy from the roots of a familial passion and a dedication to the art of blending. In this episode, Ep. 149, we'll swirl through the early years: from Justin's father crafting wines with old vine Zinfandel and Petite Syrah to the serendipitous planting of Rhone va...
Mar 04, 2024•1 hr 38 min•Season 6Ep. 149
Welcome back, wine enthusiasts, to another installment of The Black Wine Guy Experience. I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have a fascinating episode with a very special guest. Join us on a journey through the rich tapestry of life and wine with Juan Mercado, the founder and vintner at RIISE Wines. In episode 148, we'll uncork the story of how a tasting at All Seasons Cafe in Napa uncapped Juan's passion for high-end wines, propelling him from a collector to a pivotal player in the wine ind...
Feb 26, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Season 6Ep. 148
Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today in Episode 147 titled "Octavio," we uncork the life and passion of a man deeply rooted in the winemaking industry. Joining us is the dedicated cellar master at Tooth and Nail Wine Company, and the indomitable spirit behind their success, Octavio Barrera Morales. From his original ambitions in mechanics to his inspiring journey in the vineyards of California, Octavio's tale is one of tenacity, family values, and th...
Feb 19, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 6Ep. 147
Welcome back to "The Black Wine Guy Experience," where your host MJ Towler takes you on a flavorful journey of wine, life, and laughter. In episode 146, we're joined by the effervescent John Coyle, a man as rich in stories as he is in his knowledge of wine. Today, we're popping the cork on an array of topics; we'll dribble into tales of full-court basketball at Boston Garden and saunter through the vineyards of John's path from the hard streets of Roxbury to the eclectic essence of Venice, Calif...
Feb 12, 2024•1 hr 31 min•Season 6Ep. 146
Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In this episode, our host MJ Towler is joined by the incredible Karen MacNeil for a captivating conversation about the world of wine, writing, and media. They delve into the dichotomy of delayed gratification in writing books versus the immediate feedback from digital media, and Karen's opposition to Dry January, advocating instead for moderation and the cultural significance of wine. They share personal experiences, from the joys of working in the ...
Feb 05, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Season 6Ep. 145
Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience, where we explore the world of wine from unique and diverse perspectives. In this episode, our host, MJ Towler, is joined by the incredibly knowledgeable and passionate Danielle Callegari, a professor at Dartmouth College. Together, they delve into a captivating discussion that covers a wide range of topics, from the complexities of Italian wines to academia and Dante's influence. Join us as we uncover the fascinating world of wine and the rich experience...
Jan 29, 2024•1 hr 41 min•Season 6Ep. 144
