In this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, MJ’s guest is proprietor and winemaker at Melville Vineyard, Chad Melville. We hear about the importance of being open to learning and committing to doing things right. 

Chad shares his connection to nature and growing high-quality wine grapes. We dive deep into the specifics of wine regions like Knights and Alexander Valley and learn why Alexander Valley wines can be less expensive than Napa wines even though they are nearby. He discusses his family connection with the Stuhlmuller Family and their vineyard in Alexander Valley. The family would visit the vineyard, discussing how to make it profitable, and have fun. 

He discusses his connection to Mother Nature, the ocean, mountains, and stars. Chad delves into specific plots of land, their unique soil conditions, and how they produce different types of wines. 

Finally, we explore the importance of wine critics and finding quality wines. Knowing the winemaker or vineyard can be lifesaving. We hear about some of the best in the business, including Bryan Babcock, Greg Brewer, Bruce McGuire, and Chris Whitcraft. In addition, this episode gives insights into wine culture, boarding schools, nature, and leadership.

A massive Thank You to Chad Melville!

For more information on Melville Wines click the link

Follow Melville Winery on IG

This episode in-studio wines: 

2021 Melville “Terraces” Pinot Noir

2021 Melville “Block M” Pinot Noir

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Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.

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Thank you to our sponsor: Rare Liquid. Rare Liquid is setting a new provenance standard for the rare wine & spirits industry. Utilizing the untapped potential of Web 3.0, Rare Liquid is building a community of artisan producers, technology, and logistics professionals to serve the needs of next-generation wine collectors.

Learn more at Rare Liquid

Follow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub

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On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, we talk with Bernardino Sani, the Winemaker, and CEO of the historic Argiano estate., who shares about the restoration of the property and their organic vineyard practices. We explore the beautiful region of Montalcino between Sienna and Florence, known for its wine and food. 

We dive into the differences between Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino, their production regulations, and the historical significance of food and wine in the region. We learn about the beautiful Renaissance-style cellar and the transformed wine cellar dedicated to the history of Brunello. 

Lastly, we look closer at Sienna and its traditions, culture, and food, including the Pallia horse race and traditional kinds of pasta. Tune in for a fascinating journey through the heart of Tuscany.

A huge Thank You to Bernardino Sani!

Follow Bernardino on IG

Follow Argiano Estate on IG

This episode in-studio wines: 

2017 Argiano Brunello di Montalcino

2020 Argiano Rosso di Montalcino

2020 Argiano Solengo

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Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience 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

Thank you to our sponsor: Rare Liquid. Rare Liquid is setting a new provenance standard for the rare wine & spirits industry. Utilizing the untapped potential of Web 3.0 Rare Liquid is building a community of artisan producers, technology, and logistics professionals to serve the needs of next-generation wine collectors.

Learn more at Rare Liquid

Follow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MJ's guest in this episode is Michael Cruse, winemaker and owner of Cruse Wine Co. and Ultramarine Wines. Michael is a renowned winemaker passionate about crafting artisanal wines using traditional techniques and modern technology. 

In this episode, MJ and Michael discuss his journey From Biology to Winemaking. Michael shares his journey from studying molecular biology to becoming a winemaker. He talks about his passion for wine and how he learned the craft by working with renowned winemakers in California and France.

Michael also discusses his challenges when starting his winery and how he overcame them. He talks about his winemaking philosophy and how he strives to make wines that express the unique characteristics of the vineyard and the grapes. He shares his blending approach and techniques to achieve balance and complexity in his wines. Michael also discusses the importance of sustainability in winemaking and how he incorporates sustainable practices in his vineyards.

Michael talks about his two wineries, Cruse Wine Co. and Ultramarine Wines. He shares the story behind each winery and the different wines they produce. Michael also discusses the challenges and rewards of running two wineries and the unique opportunities it provides.

Michael shares his thoughts on the future of winemaking and the trends he sees in the industry. He talks about the increasing interest in natural and organic wines, the importance of sustainability, and the role of technology in winemaking. He also discusses the industry's challenges, such as climate change and changing consumer preferences, and how winemakers can adapt.

A massive Thank You to Michael Cruse!

For information about Cruse Wine Co., click the link.

For details about Ultramarine Wines, click the link.

Follow Michael on IG

Follow Cruse Wine Co. on IG

This episode in-studio wines: 

2016 Ultramarine Blanc de Blancs

NV Cruse Wine Co. Reserve Cask Sparkling Wine 

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Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience 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

Thank you to our sponsor: Rare Liquid. Rare Liquid is setting a new provenance standard for the rare wine & spirits industry. Utilizing the untapped potential of Web 3.0, Rare Liquid is building a community of artisan producers, technology, and logistics professionals to serve the needs of next-generation wine collectors.

Learn more at Rare Liquid

Follow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MJ's guest in this episode is the owner and winemaker of Hirsch Vineyards in Sonoma, CA, Jasmine Hirsch.    

In this episode, MJ and Jasmine talk about her family's history in the wine industry and how she became interested in winemaking. She shares the story of Hirsch Vineyards and the unique terroir of the Sonoma Coast. Jasmine discusses the philosophy behind Hirsch Vineyards and their commitment to sustainability. Why did they move to biodynamic farming, and how that differs from natural wine? They also talk about living in Philadelphia, Prague, and Amsterdam. This “Jawn” has it all!

A huge Thank You to Jasmine Hirsch!

For information about Hirsch Vineyards click the link.

Follow Jasmine on IG

Follow Hirsch Vineyards on IG

This episode in-studio wines: 

2021 Hirsch Vineyards Sonoma Coast Rosé of Pinot Noir

2021 Hirsch Vineyards Sonoma Coast Bohan-Dillon Pinot Noir

2020 Hirsch Vineyards Sonoma Coast Reserve Pinot Noir

2019 Hirsch Vineyards Sonoma Coast Raschen Ridge Pinot Noir

2019 Hirsch Vineyards Sonoma Coast East Ridge Pinot Noir

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Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience 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

Thank you to our sponsor: Rare Liquid. Rare Liquid is setting a new provenance standard for the rare wine & spirits industry. Utilizing the untapped potential of Web 3.0 Rare Liquid is building a community of artisan producers, technology, and logistics professionals to serve the needs of next-generation wine collectors.

Learn more at Rare Liquid

Follow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MJ guest in this episode is a 6th Generation Winemaker and Proprietor of Fruli’s historic Marco Felluga Estate, Ilaria Felluga.  

In this episode, MJ and Ilaria discuss how residing in two cities helped to form her character. What it was like growing up the daughter of one of Italy’s most renowned producers. Living abroad in London. The lessons she learned running the estate’s Bed & Breakfast. And how she was able to persevere and take the reins of the family business at such a young age following the untimely death of her father.

A huge Thank You to Ilaria Fellugai!

For information about Marco Felluga/Russiz Superiore click the link.

Follow Ilaria on IG

Follow Marco Felluga/Russiz Superiore on IG

This episode in-studio wines: 

2021 Marco Felluga Collio Ribolla Gialla Maralba

2021 Marco Felluga Collio Fruilano Amani

2021 Russiz Superiore Collio Sauvignon Riserva 

2019 Russiz Superiore Cabernet Franc

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Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience 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

Thank you to our sponsor: Rare Liquid. Rare Liquid is setting a new provenance standard for the rare wine & spirits industry. Utilizing the untapped potential of Web 3.0 Rare Liquid is building a community of artisan producers, technology, and logistics professionals to serve the needs of next-generation wine collectors.

Learn more at Rare Liquid

Follow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MJ’s guest today is a 5th Generation Northern Californian with a distinguished 25-year + career in the wine industry Tony Biagi.

Tony graduated from UC Davis and began his winemaking journey with his first internship in 1992. Since then, he has worked with scores of highly acclaimed wines, earning him a reputation as one of Napa Valley's most dynamic winemakers.

He is known amongst his peers for his razor-sharp palate, tasting recall, and comprehensive knowledge of winemaking history and techniques. He strives to balance deep pure fruit expression with the tensional edge of vibrant acid, making his wines genuinely exceptional.

His dedication to his craft has earned him numerous critical accolades, including being named Vinous Winemaker of the Year in 2020.

In this episode, MJ and Tony discuss attending high school with Tom Brady and why Barry Bonds belongs in the Hall of Fame. Where and when he fell in love with Zinfandel. Cult Cabernets, mountain fruit, and mentoring young winemakers.

A huge Thank You to Tony Biagi!

For information about Patria Wines click the link.

Follow Patria Wines on IG

For information about Olema Wines click the link.

Follow Olema Wines on IG

This episode in-studio wines: 

2020 Patria Charlie Smith Sonoma Mountain Chardonnay

2016 Patria Avoyelles Oakville Red Wine 

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Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience 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

Thank you to our sponsor: Rare Liquid. Rare Liquid is setting a new provenance standard for the rare wine & spirits industry. Utilizing the untapped potential of Web 3.0 Rare Liquid is building a community of artisan producers, technology, and logistics professionals to serve the needs of next-generation wine collectors.

Learn more at Rare Liquid

Follow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MJ’s guest today is the Owner and Winemaker at Kobayashi Winery Travis Allen! Kobayashi is a small family-owned winery making wines from premium vineyards in WA State. They are focused on making the best and most “interesting” wines in the world.

In this episode, MJ and his guest Travis Allen discuss a life-changing decision at the age of 18 that led him to Japan. How a trip to Hospice du Rhone shaped the trajectory of his winemaking career. And how Kobayashi’s pursuit of precision has married with their passion to bring forth the best and most interesting wines in the world.

A huge Domo Arigato to Travis Allen!

For information about Kobayashi Winery click the link.

Follow Travis Allen on IG

This episode in studio wines:

2020 Domaine Gangloff Condrieu

2019 Domaine La Barroche Châteauneuf-Du-Pape "Pure"

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Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience 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

Thank you to our sponsor: Rare Liquid. Rare Liquid is setting a new provenance standard for the rare wine & spirits industry. Utilizing the untapped potential of Web 3.0 Rare Liquid is building a community of artisan producers, technology, and logistics professionals to serve the needs of next-generation wine collectors.

Learn more at Rare Liquid

Follow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MJ’s guest today is the co-owner and winemaker of the Extradimensional Wine Co Yeah! Hardy Wallace! In this episode MJ and Hardy discuss everything from Northern Indian percussion to opening up for De la Soul, A Tribe Called Quest. How the dirty South informed his first project and how Extradimensional Wine Co Yeah! is redefining blending and terroir while being socially responsible.

That's just the tip of the iceberg, there's so much more. Hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!

A huge thank you to Hardy Wallace! 

For information about Extradimensional Wine Co. Yeah! click the link.

Follow Wine Co. Yeah on Instagram

Follow Hardy on Instagram

Follow Kate on Instagram

This episodes in-studio wines: 2020 Extradimensional Wine Co. Yeah! Chendawg II

2021 Extradimensional Wine Co. Yeah! Local Election Red Wine

Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience 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

Thank you to our sponsor: Rare Liquid. Rare Liquid is setting a new provenance standard for the rare wine & spirits industry. Utilizing the untapped potential of Web 3.0 Rare Liquid is building a community of artisan producers, technology, and logistics professionals to serve the needs of next-generation wine collectors.

Learn more at Rare Liquid

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MJ’s guest today is the Managing Director of storied retailer Grapes The Wine Company Daniel Posner! In this episode, MJ and Daniel discuss overcoming tragedy. Daniel’s unique foray into the world of wine. Wine ratings, wine legislation. The astronomical rise in the Bordeaux and Burgundy wine markets and the importance of finding a trusted retailer.  

A huge thank you to Daniel Posner! 

For information about Grapes The Wine Co. click the link.

Follow Daniel on Instagram

Follow Grapes The Wine Co. on Instagram

This episode in-studio wine: 2017 Lamy Cailllat Bourgogne Blanc

Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience 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

Thank you to our sponsor: Rare Liquid. Rare Liquid is setting a new provenance standard for the rare wine & spirits industry. Utilizing the untapped potential of Web 3.0 Rare Liquid is building a community of artisan producers, technology, and logistics professionals to serve the needs of next-generation wine collectors.

Learn more at Rare Liquid

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MJ’s guest today is a businessman, philanthropist, NCAA Champion, World Champion, and legendary sports icon Isiah Thomas! In this episode MJ and “Zeke” discuss growing up as the youngest of 9 children. The guiding influence of his mother. Aretha Franklin, Fred Hampton, Bill Russell, and the Civil Rights Movement. And how he created a seamless flow from NBA star to CEO of the first ever African-American-owned Champagne House Cheurlin 1788! This is a great interview! Grab a bottle pull the cork and enjoy!

A huge thank you to Isiah Thomas! 

For information about Cheurlin 1788 click the link.

Follow Isiah Thomas on Instagram

Follow Cheurlin 1788 on Instagram

Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience 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

Thank you to our sponsor: Rare Liquid. Rare Liquid is setting a new provenance standard for the rare wine & spirits industry. Utilizing the untapped potential of Web 3.0 Rare Liquid is building a community of artisan producers, technology, and logistics professionals to serve the needs of next-generation wine collectors.

Learn more at Rare Liquid

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.