Beats Vines and Life

Marvin J. Towler
Beats Vines and Life

MJ Towler aka the Black Wine Guy went from a totally obsessed wine newbie to the world's first-ever African-American fine and rare wine auctioneer in less than 3 years.  These days, he is a podcaster and journalist who travels the globe, having conversations with the movers, shakers, and disruptors in the worlds of food, wine, music, and more.   This show pairs his passion for complex, interesting wines with complex, interesting guests. These are deep thinkers and Mavericks talking about their passions, life lessons, and inspirations - while drinking a bottle of something listeners will definitely want to savor for themselves.  Sit back, listen, learn, and laugh. This is Beats Vines and Life.  For more information and exclusive content, go to beatsvinesandlife.com  Follow MJ on IG @blackwineguy @beatsvinesandlife   Podcast produced by Marvin J. Towler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. -5 ДН.

    The Neyers Legacy: Vineyards, Family, and Lifelong Ambitions

    Welcome back to another enlightening episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where we dive deep into the rhythms of winemaking, the melodies of life, and everything in between. I’m your host, MJ Towler, and today, we have a remarkable guest who encapsulates the spirit of Napa Valley’s wine legacy. Today, we sit down with Bruce Neyers, a pioneer who has combined the best Old World wine traditions with California's dynamic winemaking landscape. Bruce's journey takes us from his roots in Wilmington, Delaware, to the expansive vineyards of Napa Valley.  We’ll explore Bruce's challenges and triumphs—from custom crush operations at Rombauer Vineyards to establishing his own thriving winery with ingenuity and perseverance. We'll uncover his insightful philosophy on winemaking, honoring the Old World while embracing New World innovation, and delve into his hands-on approach, including the charming tradition of foot-crushing grapes like Carignan. We'll also touch on Bruce's expansive career, from a pivotal harvest in Germany’s Nahe region to his influential role with Kermit Lynch's renowned wine portfolio. Join us as Bruce shares stories of family, friendships, and the serendipitous moments that shaped Neyers Vineyards’ legacy—culminating in his daughter Lizzie’s recent involvement and a promising partnership with the Trinchero family as Bruce plans a well-deserved retirement. So pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, settle in, and let's embark on this flavorful journey with Bruce Neyers. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this one! --- A Massive THANK YOU to BRUCE & BARBARA NEYERS!!!  Fore more information about Neyers Vineyards, click the link!! Follow Neyers Vineyards on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to. For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.com Follow MJ @blackwineguy Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Second Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, will be held on November 8th, 2024. It will feature a seated comparative seminar, followed by live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun. For more information, go to GrenacheFest Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 ч. 29 мин.
  2. 30 СЕНТ.

    Breaking Barriers: Artie Johnson on Wine, Business and Cultural Impact

    Welcome to another exciting episode of "Beats Vines & Life." Today, we're diving deep into the world of wine with our special guest, the multifaceted Artie Johnson.  In this candid conversation, Artie shares his incredible journey from working luxurious posts at renowned places like the Versace Mansion and Nobu to becoming a celebrated winemaker. Join us as we explore the intricacies of European and American wine production, the economic challenges faced by the industry, and the efforts required to maintain high-quality standards.  We’ll also touch upon Artie’s sports background and his transition to the restaurant business, illustrating how resilience and adaptability have shaped his career.  Prepare for a deep dive into topics ranging from the importance of innovation in winemaking to personal anecdotes that highlight the essence of balancing professional and family life.  We'll also discuss Artie's entrepreneurial spirit, the strategic move to Napa, and the reality of chasing passion amid uncertainties. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone who appreciates a well-rounded conversation, this episode is packed with insights and humor that blend professional wine talk with our guest's vibrant storytelling.  Grab your favorite glass of vino and get ready to be inspired by the authentic journey of Artie Johnson on "Beats Vines & Life." 🍷✨ --- A Massive THANK YOU to ARTIE JOHNSONI!!!  Follow Le Artishasic, on IG! Follow Artie on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to. For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.com Follow MJ @blackwineguy Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Second Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, will be held on November 8th, 2024. It will feature a seated comparative seminar, followed by live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun. For more information, go to GrenacheFest Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 ч. 58 мин.
  3. 23 СЕНТ.

    Behind the Bottle: Jeremy Hart Talks Wine, Entrepreneurship, and Authenticity in the Beverage Industry

    Welcome to another exciting episode of Beats Vines & Life! In today's episode, our host, MJ Towler, sits down to have an inspiring conversation with the multifaceted wine industry expert, Jeremy Hart. Known for his diverse experiences and significant contributions to the wine world,  Jeremy has emceed the TexSomM conference for six years, co-founded the innovative company Inknology, and helped over 50 brands gain recognition. He also spearheaded the acclaimed Legit wine brand, which was ranked number 26 in the 2019 Wine Spectator’s Top 100, and recently partnered with Somm.ai to offer new revenue opportunities for the beverage community. Join us as we delve into Jeremy's remarkable journey from his early days as a fry cook in Houston to a leading figure in the wine industry. We'll explore his recent projects like Explicit Content, his unique approach to wine production, and his heartfelt advocacy for self-reliance and entrepreneurship in the beverage business.  You'll also hear personal anecdotes, industry insights, and candid discussions about the wine world's current state and future potential.  Stay tuned for an engaging and educational deep dive into wine, entrepreneurship, and life lessons from one of the industry's most dynamic personalities! --- A Massive THANK YOU to JEREMY HARTI!!!  This episode in-studio wine: 2021 EXPLICIT CONTENT CDP Rouge For more information about Inknowology, click here! Follow Inknowology on IG! Follow Explicit Content on IG! For more information about Somm.ai click the link! Follow Somm.ai on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to. For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.com Follow MJ @blackwineguy Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Second Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, will be held on November 8th, 2024. It will feature a seated comparative seminar, followed by live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun. For more information, go to GrenacheFest Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 ч. 30 мин.
  4. 16 СЕНТ.

    Wine Tales and Trials: Bart Hansen's of Dane Cellars Winemaking Adventure

    Welcome back to another riveting episode of **Beats Vines & Life**, your go-to podcast where we blend the soulful notes of music, the rich flavors of the finest wines, and the tapestry of life stories.  I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today, we're diving into the inspiring journey of Bart Hansen, a seasoned winemaker with over three decades in the industry.  From humble beginnings at Kenwood Vineyards to pioneering biodynamic practices at Benziger Family Winery, Bart's story is one of dedication, innovation, and a deep-rooted passion for winemaking. We'll delve into his early challenges, including missing out on opportunities due to financial constraints, and how he turned these setbacks into stepping stones. Get ready to hear about biodynamic moon cycles and the meticulous practices that set Bart apart in the wine world. We’ll also have some fun with "Slap, Lick, Fondle" and explore Bart’s excitement for future vintages and his new tasting room project. Plus, we’ll touch on some fascinating industry reflections and personal anecdotes that showcase the heart behind the wines. And don't miss out on our special announcements and a nostalgic dive into Thanksgiving memories and homemade wines. So, pour yourself a glass, sit back, and join us for an intimate and enlightening conversation filled with wisdom, laughter, and, of course, great wine. --- A Massive THANK YOU to BART HANSENI!!!  This episode wines:  2022 Sauvignon Blanc Beltane Ranch Sonoma Valley 2020 Old Vine Zinfandel Rancho Agua Caliente Vineyard Sonoma Valley  2019 Valeria Rossi Ranch 68% Grenache 32% Mourvèdre Sonoma Valley 2020 Malbec Lazy Dog Vineyard Sonoma Valley For more information about Dane Cellars click the link! Follow Dane Cellars on IG! Listen to The Winemakers Pod here! Follow The Winemakers Pod on IG ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to. For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.com Follow MJ @blackwineguy Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Second Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, will be held on November 8th, 2024. It will feature a seated comparative seminar, live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun. For more information, go to GrenacheFest Follow GrenacheFest on IG! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 ч. 23 мин.
  5. 9 СЕНТ.

    Unfiltered and Unscripted: Tasting The New Argot Releases with Justin Harmon

    Welcome back to another captivating episode of Beats, Vines & Life! I'm your host, MJ Towler. Today, we've got an incredible story to tell with our special guest, Justin Harmon, winemaker extraordinaire from Sonoma County and Napa Valley.  In this episode, we dive into the heart of wine culture and reveal what it takes to start and run a first-generation family winery with no external funding. Justin reflects on a significant moment that sparked his passion for wine at a wedding and shares the trials and triumphs of creating his acclaimed wines, from Pinot Noir to Cabernet Sauvignon, all made with love and dedication.  We explore the intricate details of wine production, the effects of extreme heat on vineyards, and the unique terroir of regions like Bennett Valley and Sonoma Mountain. But it's not just about the wine. We get personal as Justin opens up about the challenges of non-rehearsed, raw, and authentic social media engagement, his deep dive into wine history and culture, and how his chemistry background paved the way for his winemaking journey.  Plus, we'll hear anecdotes about unexpected fans, wine-tasting adventures, and the meaningful names behind wines like "Rosetta" and "Babel." And if you're a fan of Spanish and Portuguese wines, you're in for a treat—we discuss their exceptional value and quality.  With humor, banter, and a sprinkle of music references, this conversation is as multifaceted as the wines themselves. So grab a glass, sit back, and enjoy an inspiring journey through winemaking with us on Beats, Vines & Life.  Cheers! --- A Massive THANK YOU to JUSTIN AND BETH HARMONI!!!  This episode in-studio wines:  Argot 2022 “Bastard Tongue” Sonoma County Pinot Noir Argot 2021 “Babel” Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Argot 2021 “Rosetta” Sonoma County Syrah For more information about Argot Wines click the link! Follow Argot Wines on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to. For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.com Follow MJ @blackwineguy Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Second Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, will be held on November 8th, 2024. It will feature a seated comparative seminar, followed by live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun. For more information, go to GrenacheFest Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 ч. 46 мин.
  6. 2 СЕНТ.

    Crafting Legacies in Wine: Donald Patz’s Journey from Patz and Hall to Secret Door, Maritana, and Beyond

    Welcome back to another episode of "Beats Vines & Life" with your host MJ Towler. Today, we're honored to have the legendary winemaker Donald Patz joining us. From his early days as a wine salesman in Oregon to establishing the renowned Patz and Hall winery in California, Donald has experienced the wine industry's evolution firsthand.  After parting ways with his former business for personal and estate planning reasons, he's now pioneering new ventures like Maritana and Secret Door, focusing on wines that reflect his family's preferences and his current tastes. Donald will share his insights on the diversity of Sonoma's vineyards, the significance of single vineyard designate wines, and the intriguing stories behind his collaborations with wine legends like Francois Villard from the Rhone Valley. We'll also discuss the intriguing historical connections of Beckstoffer’s vineyards, the spiritual experience of visiting historic sites, and the challenges winemakers face in balancing traditions with innovations. Whether you're a wine aficionado or just curious about the winemaking process, this episode is packed with valuable insights. So, pour yourself a glass of your favorite vintage, sit back, and join us as we journey through the life and craft of Donald Patz on "Beats Vines & Life." Cheers! --- A Massive THANK YOU to DONALD PATZI!!!  Follow Donald on IG! For more information about Maritana Vineyards click the link! Follow Maritana on IG! For more information about Secret Door Winery click the link! Follow Secret Door Winery on IG! For more information about Terminim Wines click the link! Follow Terminim Wines on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to. For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.com Follow MJ @blackwineguy Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Second Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, will be held on November 8th, 2024. It will feature a seated comparative seminar, followed by live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun. For more information, go to GrenacheFest Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 ч. 38 мин.
  7. 26 АВГ.

    Wine Marketing Mastery: Barbara and Brian on Modernizing Wine Marketing and Overcoming Industry Challenges

    Welcome back to another insightful episode of "Beats Vines & Life!" This week, we're diving deep into the world of winemaking, marketing, and the evolving landscape of the wine industry with our special guests, Barbara Gorder and Brian Baker. We'll discuss niche market strategies, the critical importance of finding and bonding with your customer tribe, and the essential role of marketing in an industry often stuck in traditional methods. Barbara and Brian will share their vast expertise, from innovative wine promotions like Stella Rosa's Pineapple Chili to the shifting perceptions of sweeter wines and Rieslings.  We also shine a light on the impactful "Free the Grapes" movement, aiming to open up wine shipping laws across all states, and the fascinating historical context behind America's complex wine distribution systems. Finally, expect insights about modern marketing tactics, the competition from cannabis and craft spirits, and the generational shift impacting wine sales. Tune in for an episode packed with valuable lessons, from creating scarcity and authentic advertising to leveraging storytelling and embracing innovative outreach strategies. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a marketing professional, this episode is a treasure trove of information you don't want to miss. Let’s raise a glass and dive in! --- A Massive THANK YOU to BARBARA GORDER & BRIAN BAKERI!!!  For more information about Project Wine: Lifting All Boats click the link! Brian Baker Cultivar Marketing Website: https://cultivarmarketing.com/ Email: brian@cultivarmarketing.com Phone: (707) 363-5931   Barbara Gorder Undisclosed Location Website: www.unlo.com Email:Barbara.gorder@unlo.com Phone: 312.972.2833 (PT)   Direct to Consumer Wine Symposium Join us for the best DTC Wine education and networking in the business. https://dtcwinesymposium.com/ January 21-23 Hyatt Regency Monterey, CA Early Bird Tickets on Sale now until November 1, 2024 ____________________________________________________________ Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Second Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, will be held on November 8th, 2024. It will feature a seated comparative seminar, followed by live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun. For more information, go to GrenacheFest Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 ч. 13 мин.
  8. 19 АВГ.

    Wine, Music, and Storytelling: A Conversation with 6th Generation Vintner Jeff Bundschu

    Welcome to another exciting episode of "Beats Vines & Life" with your host, MJ Towler. Today, we're thrilled to bring you an insightful conversation with Jeff Bundschu, the 6th generation California vintner from the iconic Gundlach Bundschu winery.  Jeff and MJ dive deep into the thriving world of wine, exploring how storytelling and personal experiences are shaping the industry. They also delve into the trend of premiumization and the importance of engaging younger audiences to keep wine culture vibrant. In this episode, you'll hear Jeff reminiscing about his upbringing in Sonoma, his transformative years at USC, and his globetrotting adventures that ignited his passion for winemaking. From organizing music events at the winery to championing natural and orange wines, Jeff shares his innovative approach to making wine fun and accessible. Tune in to catch their lively discussion on the evolving wine market, the challenges faced by smaller producers, and the dynamic intersection of music, lifestyle, and wine. Plus, MJ and Jeff bond over their love for hip-hop, offering a unique blend of beats and vines that you won't want to miss.  --- A Massive THANK YOU to JEFF BUNDSCHUI!!!  For more information about Gundlach Bundschu Winery click the link! Follow Gundlach Bundschu on IG! Follow Jeff on IG ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to. For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.com Follow MJ @blackwineguy Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Second Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, will be held on November 8th, 2024. It will feature a seated comparative seminar, followed by live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun. For more information, go to GrenacheFest Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 ч. 29 мин.
4,9
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Оценок: 156

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MJ Towler aka the Black Wine Guy went from a totally obsessed wine newbie to the world's first-ever African-American fine and rare wine auctioneer in less than 3 years.  These days, he is a podcaster and journalist who travels the globe, having conversations with the movers, shakers, and disruptors in the worlds of food, wine, music, and more.   This show pairs his passion for complex, interesting wines with complex, interesting guests. These are deep thinkers and Mavericks talking about their passions, life lessons, and inspirations - while drinking a bottle of something listeners will definitely want to savor for themselves.  Sit back, listen, learn, and laugh. This is Beats Vines and Life.  For more information and exclusive content, go to beatsvinesandlife.com  Follow MJ on IG @blackwineguy @beatsvinesandlife   Podcast produced by Marvin J. Towler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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