By Marvin J. Towler
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,
... more
4.9
155155 ratings
The podcast currently has 196 episodes available.
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!
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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!
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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.
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.
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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.
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!
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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.
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!
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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.
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!
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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: [email protected]
Phone: (707) 363-5931
Barbara Gorder
Undisclosed Location
Website: www.unlo.com
Email:[email protected]
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
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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.
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.
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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.
Welcome back to another inspiring episode of Beats Vines & Life. Today, our host MJ Towler sits down with Antonio Arias, a chemical-engineer-turned-wine-entrepreneur who has made his mark in the Finger Lakes wine region.
Antonio shares his journey from growing up in a family of engineers in Mexico to discovering his passion for wine in Australia, and eventually founding Once, a unique wine tasting bar and shop in the heart of the Finger Lakes.
He discusses his vision for creating an inclusive and educational wine experience, the innovative spirit of the Finger Lakes wine making community, and the challenges and rewards of transitioning from a technical to a business-focused career.
Join us as we explore Antonio's philosophy on wine, the beauty of the Finger Lakes, and his aspirations to influence the region's evolving identity.
Cheers to all the mavericks, thinkers, and wine drinkers out there—this episode is for you!
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A Massive THANK YOU to ANTONIO ARIAS!!!
For more information about Once Finger Lakes click the link!
Follow Once 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, Finger Lakes Wine Country. The following episodes are brought to you by Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York State’s world-class wine destination producing the most award-winning wines in the Northeast, just a short drive away.
For more information about Finger Lakes Wine Country click the link
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back, Mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and all the wine drinkers! In today's episode of "Beats Vines & Life," we have a fascinating conversation with Meaghan Frank, the fourth-generation trailblazer behind Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery in the stunning Finger Lakes region.
Inspired by her enriching experiences in Australia's advanced wine industry, Meaghan has revolutionized the wine tourism scene back home with her unique "1886 wine experience."
Join us as she delves into the rich history of her family's winery, touches on the challenges and rewards of working closely with her father, and shares memorable moments from her wine journey, including a special bottle at the Waldorf Astoria. We also explore her ventures into growing the ancient Rkatsiteli grape and her passion for making traditional method sparkling wines.
Get ready to be inspired by Meaghan's story of legacy, innovation, and the universal love for wine. Don't forget to check the show notes for all the ways you can connect with Meaghan and her remarkable winery. Let's get started!
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A Massive THANK YOU to MEAGHAN FRANKI!!!
For more information about Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery click the link!
Follow Dr. Frank Wine 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, Finger Lakes Wine Country. The following episodes are brought to you by Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York State’s world-class wine destination producing the most award-winning wines in the Northeast, just a short drive away.
For more information about Finger Lakes Wine Country click the link
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back, listeners, to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! Today we have an extraordinary guest joining us—Hans Peter Weis, the owner and winemaker of Weis Vineyards in the beautiful Finger Lakes region.
Peter's journey from growing up in a sixth-generation winemaking family in Mosel, Germany, to establishing a thriving vineyard here in New York is nothing short of inspiring.
In this episode, we dive deep into Peter's fascinating story, from overcoming financial challenges and the importance of relationships with local grape growers, to achieving success alongside his wife Ashley.
With over 30 different SKUs, including award-winning Rieslings, sparkling wines, and unique dessert wines, Peter's commitment to quality and innovation has truly set Weis Vineyards apart.
We'll explore the incredible hard work and dedication it takes to build a successful wine business, the importance of labeling for sweetness levels, and exciting future projects like a new distillery.
Plus, hear about Peter's special wine made for his first-born son and the story behind their famed 183 wine. And of course, we couldn't resist discussing the unique and picturesque Finger Lakes region.
Join us for an engaging conversation filled with insights, laughter, and of course, some delicious wine talk. So grab a glass, sit back, and let's get into it.
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A Massive THANK YOU to PETER WEIS!!!
For more information about Weis Vineyards click the link!
Follow Weis 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, Finger Lakes Wine Country. The following episodes are brought to you by Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York State’s world-class wine destination producing the most award-winning wines in the Northeast, just a short drive away.
For more information about Finger Lakes Wine Country click the link
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back to another episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where we dive into the worlds of food, wine, music, and more. I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have a special treat for all you wine enthusiasts out there. Joining us is Edward Miller, the talented winemaker behind Glenora Wine Cellars, one of the oldest wineries on Seneca Lake in the picturesque Finger Lakes region.
Edward brings a wealth of experience, having worked in renowned wine regions like Sonoma, Napa, New Zealand, and Western Australia before settling in the Finger Lakes. In this episode, we explore the diverse range of wines produced at Glenora, from dry viniferous and sweet native varieties to innovative low-alcohol fruit wines.
We also delve into the importance of sustainability in winemaking and the renaissance of hybrid grapes, which are making a comeback in a more elevated style.
Edward shares fascinating stories about his journey into the wine industry, including his studies in classical history and Latin, his transformative expat experience in Italy, and his dedication to cool climate wines that are lively and delicate.
We'll also hear about some memorable bottles he's encountered, like Nebbiolos from Italy and Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, and discuss the unique challenges and joys of making wine in the Finger Lakes.
And there's more! Glenora offers a complete immersive experience with an inn, restaurant, tasting room, winery, and a sparkling wine program. You won't want to miss Edward's insights on aging wines and a special 1981 Blanc de Blanc from their library.
Grab your favorite glass of wine, sit back, and join us for an enriching conversation that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation in the world of winemaking.
Don't forget to subscribe and check out Glenora Wine Cellars' website and social media to plan your visit. Cheers!
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A Massive THANK YOU to EDWARD MILLER!!!
For more information about Glenora Wine Cellars click the link!
Follow Glenora Wine 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, Finger Lakes Wine Country. The following episodes are brought to you by Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York State’s world-class wine destination producing the most award-winning wines in the Northeast, just a short drive away.
For more information about Finger Lakes Wine Country click the link
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The podcast currently has 196 episodes available.
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