Welcome back to Beats, Vines & Life! In this episode, host MJ Towler sits down with the legendary Marc J. Spears—Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer, senior writer at ESPN’s Andscape, and a bona fide wine enthusiast. Hailing from the Bay Area with deep roots in both sports and wine culture, Marc shares stories from his 26-year career covering the NBA, his journey into wine ambassadorship for Jackson Family Wines, and his experiences bridging the worlds of basketball, culture, and the vine.

Get ready for a heartfelt and lively conversation about the influence of family, the changing landscape of wine in Black communities, memories from the NBA Finals, and Marc’s role in the acclaimed Hulu series “The Conversations Project.” We’ll uncork laughs, wisdom, and some killer wine recommendations as MJ and Marc talk about everything from growing up around California wine country to the competitive world of wine-loving NBA players. Whether you’re a hoops head, a wine lover, or just in the mood for authentic storytelling, this episode’s got something for you. Cheers!

For more information about Marc’s journalism, click the link!!

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For more information about Jackson Family Wines click the link!

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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.

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Thank you to our sponsor, The Conaway Fund. The Conaway Fund is a philanthropic initiative under The Prosperity Foundation that allows donors to contribute to a fund that supports various causes such as scholarships, nonprofit organizations, schools, and families facing financial challenges. Donors can recommend where the funds should be directed, providing a flexible way to make a positive impact in communities. The Conaway Fund embodies the spirit of giving and community support, aiming to create a lasting impact through strategic philanthropy.

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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

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Welcome back to Beats Vines & Life! In this special bonus episode, host MJ Towler sits down with Justin and Beth Harmon, the dynamic husband-and-wife duo behind Argot Wines out of Sonoma. 

This lively conversation delves into the couple’s unique journey in the wine industry—from their serendipitous first meeting while sorting Sauvignon Blanc at a custom crush facility to building a celebrated winemaking brand together. 

MJ shares his admiration for their critically acclaimed Bastard Tongue Pinot Noir, while the Harmons dish out behind-the-scenes stories on vintage challenges, their hands-on approach to blending, and why community always comes first at Argot.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a fan of creative partnerships, or just here for good vibes, tune in as they unpack what makes a California cult wine, the hustle behind expanding their Sauvignon Blanc program, and how their “Friday night seven days a week” lifestyle delivers some of the best pours in Sonoma. 

This is an episode full of laughs, honest insights, and a few porch-pounding recommendations you won’t want to miss. So pour yourself a glass, settle in, and join us for a taste of passion, craftsmanship, and life’s unforgettable moments.

For more information about Argot Wines click the link!!

Follow Argot Wines 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

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Thank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

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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

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On this episode of Beats Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down with Alex Kanzler and Zach Stichler, the dynamic duo behind Kanzler Vineyards in the Sebastopol Hills of Sonoma County. Their story is one of serendipity, hard work, and a deep connection to both land and family—think accidental farmers turned boutique winemakers, whose grapes have made their way into cult Pinot Noirs and acclaimed bottles from top California producers.

We journey from the wild days of pulling up old apple orchards and setting them ablaze to crafting expressive, balanced Pinots and Chardonnays with a nod to tradition and a spark of innovation. Along the way, Alex and Zach open up about family roots, their paths from restaurants, real estate, and snowboarding—yes, you read that right—to building a close-knit, collaborative team at Kanzler. They share insights on winegrowing as a skill trade, the changing scene in Sonoma, the tightrope of navigating vintage variation, and the passion that goes into every bottle.

This episode is a celebration of community, legacy, hard-earned expertise, and the pure joy of sharing a bottle—whether it’s from your own vineyard, your neighbor’s, or popped open at a lively family garden party. 

So pour yourself a glass, get ready to hear what goes into great Sonoma wine, and join us for a heartfelt, in-depth conversation with the minds behind Kanzler Vineyards. Cheers!

For more information about Kanzler Vineyards click the link!!

Follow Kanzler Vineyards on IG!

Follow Alex 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

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Thank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

____________________________________________________________

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

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I sat down with Victor Owen Schwartz back in February 2022, and this episode originally aired on my birthday, June 30, 2022. In light of recent developments in the international wine trade, I thought this would be a great time to revisit this episode and reintroduce you to the man who fellow podcast Alum Lyle Fass has described as a true “Mensch."

Victor Schwartz, founder of VOS Selections, a small family-run wine importing company in New York, became the unlikely face of legal resistance against Trump's sweeping global tariffs. Schwartz runs the business alongside his daughter, Chloe, and imports wine, sake, and spirits from small-batch producers in countries such as France, Lebanon, and Japan. 

The Challenge: When Trump announced unprecedented global tariffs on almost all US trading partners, Schwartz described them as an "existential threat" to his small business. Unlike large corporations, small importers like VOS couldn't absorb the financial impact of sudden tariff increases.

The Legal Battle: Schwartz partnered with the Liberty Justice Center, a libertarian advocacy group, and agreed to serve as the lead plaintiff in a lawsuit challenging Trump's authority to impose the tariffs. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of VOS and four other small businesses.  VOS Selections: How a small, family-run wine company hit back against Donald Trump’s tariffs | CNN Business

The Victory: A three-judge panel at the US Court of International Trade struck down Trump's sweeping global tariffs, finding that Trump overstepped his authority by invoking emergency economic powers to impose tariffs on China, Canada, Mexico, and other US trading partners. Schwartz was cooking a pasta dinner when he received the winning news from his lawyers.

The Ongoing Fight: The Trump administration immediately appealed the ruling, and the case could end up in the Supreme Court. An appeals court granted the Trump administration's request to pause the lower court's ruling, meaning the legal battle continues. Schwartz's case represents a David-and-Goliath story where a small wine importer successfully challenged presidential trade policy, with implications for businesses and consumers worldwide.

A huge thank you to Victor O. Schwartz!

Check out his website: www.vosselections.com

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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

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Welcome back to Beats, Vines & Life! In today's episode, host MJ Towler is joined by Bobby Rallo and the legendary Professor Tony Verdoni, known as the "Wine Professor" and a true OG in the world of Italian wines. 

Tune in for a vibrant, heartfelt, and occasionally hilarious conversation that zigzags from the bustling streets of Jersey City, through the traditions of Italian family kitchens, and right into the heart of the Italian wine scene.

Professor Verdoni opens up about his roots as a second-generation Italian-American, the family food traditions that shaped him, and how wine has always been more than just a drink—it's a link to memory, heritage, and community. 

Alongside stories of Sunday sauce, poorly made homemade vino, and growing up on stickball, the conversation takes a deep dive into the wild evolution of the American wine market, the explosion of Italian varietals, and the art of truly tasting wine.

Whether you're a wine geek, a fan of old-school neighborhood stories, or just here for great convo, this episode is loaded with unforgettable wisdom, laughter, and insider knowledge. 

Pour yourself a glass, settle in, and get ready to enjoy the perfect blend of music, lifestyle, and a deep love for everything Italian. Cheers!

A Massive THANK YOU to PROFESSOR ANTHONY VERDONI, & BOBBY RALLO!!!

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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

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Thank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

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Welcome back to another special edition of Beats, Vines & Life! In this breaking news episode, MJ Towler is joined by a powerhouse panel of returning friends and innovators in the wine world: Adam Howard Lee of Clarice Wine Company, Moret Brealynn (winemaker and hospitality veteran), and Sasha Verhage, co-creator of the celebrated Downstream project. 

The trio dives deep into their unique journeys—from Pinot Noir beginnings to forging partnerships in the storied Lirac region of France. 

You’ll hear how serendipitous late-night conversations, shared bottles, and pure passion inspired their latest venture, Etienne Winery—a project bringing together Old World terroir with New World innovation.

Plus, the episode is filled with lively anecdotes about legendary winemakers like Philippe Cambie, behind-the-scenes insights into blending at the highest level, and real talk about the collaborative, adventurous spirit that makes the wine industry sing.

If you love a good origin story, crave insider details about Grenache, Pinot Noir, and Rhône varietals, and want to know what it takes to create a transatlantic wine project, this episode is for you. 

Pour a glass, settle in, and get ready for laughs, wisdom, and plenty of wine-soaked inspiration—cheers!

A Massive THANK YOU to MORET BREALYNN, ADAM HOWARD LEE & SASHA VERHAGE!!!

For more information about Etienne Winery click the link!!

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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

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Thank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

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Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! In this lively installment, host MJ Towler is joined by seasoned restaurateur Bobby Rallo as they take us on a whirlwind audio adventure through Northern Italy. 

Get ready to buckle up for an epic helicopter ride—literally and figuratively—as the guys swap stories about white-knuckle vineyard visits in the Dolomites, sipping Amarone, discovering the secrets behind iconic Italian blends, and exploring the culinary and cultural treasures that define the region. 

From heartfelt tales of beloved cookbooks and wine gadgets to breaking down the mystique of Valpolicella, Soave, Franciacorta, and Moscato, this episode marries the rhythm of food, wine, and life in a way only Beats Vines & Life can. 

Whether you’re a longtime Italian wine devotee or just starting to explore, there’s something here for every palate. So grab a glass, settle in, and let’s head north—no passport required!

A Massive THANK YOU to BOBBY RALLO!!!

For more information about Rallo Hospitality click the link!!

Follow Birravino on IG!

Follow Bobby 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

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Thank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

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Before we dive into today’s episode, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the passing of a dear friend of the pod. John Myers of The Winemakers Pod passed away unexpectedly at his home in Sonoma last week. His passion for food, wine, and life will be missed.

Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! This week, we’re hitting the road and broadcasting from New Brunswick, New Jersey—home to rich food, wine, and vibrant community stories. 

Host MJ Towler teams up with guest host Sam Coturri for a special crossover session, joined by the legendary Restaurant Guys themselves: Mark Pascal and Francis Schott.

In this episode, we dig deep into the evolution of restaurant culture, the critical importance of community, and what it takes to build a life and business around food, wine, and good times. 

Mark and Francis serve up behind-the-scenes tales from running two of New Jersey’s most celebrated restaurants, the art of scoring big-name guests for their long-running podcast, and the challenges and joys of adapting to shifting trends in food, wine, and hospitality—from the explosive early days of podcasting to the modern realities of pot, Ozempic, and changing consumer habits.

Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, aspiring podcaster, or just here to soak up a few laughs and life lessons, you’re in for a treat. 

Tune in for candid stories, plenty of plugs, a few dings for industry legends, and real talk on what it means to build a lasting community—inside and outside the kitchen.

A Massive THANK YOU to THE RESTAURANT GUYS & THE WINEMAKERS POD!!! 

For more information about The Restaurant Guys click the link!

For more infdormation about The Winemakers Podcast click the link!

Follow The Restaurant Guys on IG!

Follow The Winemakers Pod 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

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Thank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

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Before we dive into today’s episode, I want to take a moment to acknowledge a significant event that has touched millions around the world. Earlier this week, we learned of the passing of Pope Francis. His leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to faith and service left an indelible mark not only on the Catholic Church but also on the global community. Whether you are a person of faith or simply someone who values the impact of a life dedicated to service, his legacy reminds us of the power of humility, hope, and unity. Our thoughts are with all those mourning this loss. May he rest in peace.

Welcome back to Beats, Vines & Life! In this episode, host MJ Towler is joined once again by the charismatic Bobby Rallo—a seasoned restaurateur, chef, and passionate Italian wine critic with deep roots in Italian food and culture. 

From childhood memories of simmering garlic and baking bread to adventures in some of Italy's most iconic vineyards. Bobby shares stories of his family's culinary legacy, travel tales with his daughter Stella, and reflections on how Italian wine and food are inextricably linked.

This lively conversation takes listeners on a tour through the heart of Italian wine country, exploring regions like Marche, Umbria, Lazio, and, of course, Tuscany.

Expect a blend of vivid wine tasting notes, behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the restaurant world, and plenty of laughs as MJ and Bobby dig into everything from the rise of Super Tuscans to the quirks of American wine marketing.

Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or just looking to expand your palate, you’ll love this journey through Italy’s central vineyards—served with side dishes of history, family, and a slice of real-life food and wine culture. 

Grab your glass and join the ride!

A Massive THANK YOU to BOBBY RALLO!!! 

For more information about Rallo Hospitality click the link!!

Follow Birravino on IG!

Follow Bobby 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

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Thank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

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On this episode of Beats Vines & Life, host MJ Towler welcomes Eric Titus, general manager and vineyard operations manager at Titus Vineyards. 

With deep roots in Napa Valley's wine country, Eric shares the fascinating story of his family's legacy—from growing up in Sonoma with his three brothers, to earning his doctorate in biology, and working around the world as a marine biologist and environmental consultant before coming home to join the family business.

They reminisce about rural childhood adventures, family traditions, and the evolution of Sonoma and Napa from small towns to world-renowned wine destinations. 

Eric drops knowledge on the art of winemaking, from the secret splash of Viognier in their Sauvignon Blanc to his mission of reviving Merlot and championing classic varietals like Petite Verdot and Zinfandel.

But this isn’t just a podcast about wine—it’s a conversation about life paths, family values, history, and all the unexpected turns that can bring someone back to their roots. 

Whether you’re a passionate wine lover, a fan of rich storytelling, or just here for the laughs, you’ll appreciate this deep and entertaining dive into the world of wine, Napa Valley culture, and what it means to keep tradition alive in a changing world.

Pour yourself a glass as Eric and MJ dig into multi-generational tales of migration, resilience, and entrepreneurship that shaped Titus Vineyards. 

A Massive THANK YOU to ERIC TITUS!!! 

For more information about Titus Vineyards click the link!!

Follow Titus 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, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

____________________________________________________________

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

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