Beats Vines and Life

Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! This week, MJ Towler sits down with Jeff Cole, head winemaker at Sullivan Rutherford Estate in Napa Valley. From humble beginnings in Yountville, Jeff’s journey is rooted in the heart of California wine country—literally growing up among the vines. After studying wine and viticulture at Cal Poly and cutting his teeth at iconic spots like Schrambsburg, Jeff has become a passionate advocate for Napa Merlot, determined to restore its reputation and champion its world-class potential.

In this lively and candid conversation, MJ Towler and Jeff Cole reminisce about Napa’s small-town past, dig into the cyclical nature of wine trends, and explore the inside story behind Sullivan’s focus on Merlot, including how the estate’s legacy and new ownership are shaping its future. Along the way, you’ll get a window into the real work behind “glamorous” winemaking, the role of immigrants in shaping American wine, and a taste of Jeff’s favorite vintages.

So pour yourself a glass, settle in, and join us as we go deep into the stories, struggles, and triumphs behind the bottle—this is Beats Vines & Life with Jeff Cole.

For more information about Sullivan Rutherford Estate 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

Follow MJ @blackwineguy

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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.

For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and please donate!

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

Welcome back to Beats Vines & Life! In today’s episode, host MJ Towler sits down with Michael Evans, CEO and co-founder of The Vines of Mendoza—one of Argentina’s most celebrated wine and lifestyle destinations. Michael’s journey is anything but typical: he worked on the Clinton and Kerry presidential campaigns, led tech initiatives in LA, and then made an unexpected leap into the world of wine after what was supposed to be a quick vacation to Argentina.

Together, MJ and Michael dive deep into the art of crafting wine across the globe, the vibrant lifestyle in Mendoza, and the unique culture and community behind The Vines—where guests can blend their own wines, relax in a world-class resort, and connect with music, food, and immersive travel experiences. From stories of wild campaign days to blending Barolo in Italy and hosting unforgettable events with musicians and chefs, this episode uncorks the intersection of wine, music, and living boldly.

Pour a glass and join the conversation as we explore how passion, adventure, and a touch of serendipity created a global community for lifestyle lovers and wine drinkers alike.

For more information about The Vines of Mendoza 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

Follow MJ @blackwineguy

Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife

Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG

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.

For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and please donate!

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

Welcome back to Beats, Vines & Life, where the worlds of wine, music, and living boldly collide! In this special bonus episode, host MJ Towler (aka the Black Wine Guy) reunites with friends and Sonoma-based winemakers Justin and Beth Harmon of Argo Wines for a deep dive into their highly-anticipated 2023 Napa Valley Cabernet releases. 

You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at harvest updates, the family vibe of Argo’s winemaking process, and the evolution of their standout wines like the Bastard Tongue Pinot Noir, hedonistic Syrahs, Chardonnay, and—today’s focus—their serious, crowd-pleasing Napa Cabs.

From Sunday “fun day” nostalgia to breaking into Napa’s exclusive vineyard network, the conversation is candid and lively, filled with tasting notes, wine geekery, talk of terroir, and relatable laughter (and even a few burger pairings).

Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or just love stories of mavericks pursuing big dreams, this Totally Biased Wine Review will have you thirsty for a glass—and inspired to live life deliciously. Cheers!

For more information about Argot Wines click the link!

Follow Argot 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

Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG

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.

For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and please donate!

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

Get ready for an iconic journey through an unsung corner of California wine country on this episode of Beats Vines & Life. Host MJ Towler is on the road, welcoming the legendary Jeff Cohn—founder of JC Cellars and a mastermind of California Zinfandel and Rhône varietals—for a conversation that's as rich and layered as the wines they sip.

From humble Maryland beginnings and culinary school hustle, to Miami's wild 1980s hospitality scene and the Caribbean, Jeff takes us through a fascinating path that twisted its way into winemaking greatness. You'll hear how a food-and-beverage director on tall ships wound up creating some of California's most sought-after Zins, collaborating with vineyard legends, and why his relentless curiosity—plus a few serendipitous friendships—shaped both his winemaking and his approach to life.

Along the way, MJ and Jeff dig into why wine is meant to be shared, the stories behind cult vineyards, and what it means to live in the "wine bubble." And as Jeff pours from an exceptional lineup of bottles, you’ll get the inside scoop on legendary cellar experiments, the wild California terroirs, and the relationships that fuel true wine culture.

So pour yourself a glass and settle in! You’re about to discover the music, lifestyle, and unfiltered joy that drives a winemaker who’s always on a quest to make wines he loves to drink—and friends he loves to drink them with.

For more information about Jeff Cohn Cellars click the link!

Follow Jeff 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, 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.

For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and please donate!

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

Get ready for a journey through time, culture, and the lush hills of Sonoma Valley on this episode of Beats Vines & Life. Host MJ Towler sits down with the legendary Phil Coturri, a man known as The Godfather of organic mountain grape viticulture and the force behind Enterprise Vineyard Management and Winery 16600.

In this colorful conversation, Phil opens up about his roots as a third-generation San Franciscan, growing up during the revolutionary 60s and soaking up the vibrancy of the Beat movement, the Summer of Love, and the rise of Bay Area music. Together, MJ and Phil weave stories that link the evolution of California winemaking with cultural milestones—from early experiments in natural, additive-free wines to wild times with the Grateful Dead, Rolling Stone magazine, and the cosmic transformation that came with psychedelics and free-thinking art.

Expect tales about family, food, the joy (and chaos) of farming, the influence of complex microclimates on great wine, and how the rhythms of music and poetry are forever entwined with the creative process of living—and winemaking. Whether you’re here for the music, the lifestyle, or the deep dives into organic viticulture, this is an episode brimming with wisdom, wit, and a few legendary California rabbit holes.

Pour yourself a glass and tune in; this is Beats Vines & Life with Phil C.!

Follow Sixteen600 on IG!

Follow Phil on IG!

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

Subscribe to Beats Vines and Life, and give us a five-star review on your favorite platform.

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 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.

For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and please donate!

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

Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! Today, we’re taking you inside the vibrant, forward-thinking world of Sonoma’s wine scene with a recap of the S.O.R.B.E.T tasting in San Francisco —no, not the dessert, but the Sonoma Organic Regenerative Biodynamic Educational Tasting, where the future of wine and sustainable farming takes center stage.

Host MJ Towler brings you along for an energetic journey through San Francisco’s Fort Mason as he mingles with some of California’s most influential winemakers, vineyard owners, and passionate industry voices. From legends like Ravenswood’s Joel Peterson, to the next generation making their mark, MJ dives into the stories behind the bottles—and the land—that are reshaping how we think about wine. You'll hear about everything from the challenges and rewards of organic and regenerative farming to the collaborations that are building a more inclusive, responsible, and flavorful future for wine lovers everywhere.

Whether you're a die-hard Zinfandel fan, a lover of music and lifestyle stories, or just curious about what sets Sonoma apart, this episode uncorks candid conversations, meaningful insights, and a community-wide toast to doing things differently. Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate the intersection of great wine, conscious living, and the personalities who make “wine country” so much more than a place—it’s a way of life.

Follow S.O.R.B.E.T 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, 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.

For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and donate today!

____________________________________________________________

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

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

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Beats, Vines & Life—your go-to podcast at the intersection of music, wine, and the vibrant rhythms of everyday living. In this episode, host MJ Towler takes us to the stunning Sonoma Mountain in California for an exclusive, sun-soaked conversation with Barbara Gorder and Brian Baker, the powerhouse duo behind the Direct to Consumer Wine Symposium.

As they gear up for the 2026 DTC Conference, Barbara and Brian spill all the details about what’s new: from expanded programming and top-tier keynote speakers to innovative workshops on the latest marketing trends—including AI, influencer partnerships, and digital advertising that’s changing the wine industry’s game. We dig into how the conference shapes the future for wineries, opens doors in new markets, and, of course, hosts some not-to-be-missed lifestyle events like a standup tasting, martinis with jellyfish at the Monterey Aquarium, and even a pre-conference golf outing on historic greens.Whether you’re a DTC pro, a wine lover, or simply curious about the creative ways music, marketing, and lifestyle intersect, this episode sets the stage for an unforgettable conference—and the ever-evolving world of wine. Grab your headphones and your favorite vintage, and let’s dive in!

For more information about the DTC Wine Symposium click the link!

Follow DTC Wine Symposium on Linkedin!

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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, 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.

For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and please donate!

____________________________________________________________

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

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

On this episode of Beats, Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down for an illuminating conversation with Larry Turley, founder of Turley Wine Cellars. 

This episode dives deep into Larry’s remarkable journey from growing up on an organic farm in Tennessee, navigating the Jim Crow South, and working as an ER doctor, to ultimately founding one of California’s most iconic Zinfandel houses.

MJ and Larry weave through everything from early experiences with wine, family influences, and the evolution of Napa Valley's wine scene, to the preservation of historic vineyards, the art of old vine Zinfandel, and the unique quirks and personalities that have shaped Turley Wine Cellars. 

You’ll hear about the challenges and rewards of organic farming, the critical importance of education and literacy, and Larry’s culinary adventures that pair perfectly with his legendary wines.

If you love stories of transformation, American culture, and the intersection of philosophy, music, and lifestyle with great food and wine, this episode will inspire and entertain. Grab a glass and join us as we explore the incredible beats, vines, and life of Larry Turley.

For more information about Turley Wine Cellarsclick the link!

Follow Turley 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, 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.

For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and please donate!

____________________________________________________________

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

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

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Beats, Vines & Life, where host MJ Towler takes us deep into the world of passion-driven winemaking and the lifestyle that surrounds it. Broadcasting live from a secret spot in Northern California, MJ sits down with Michael Evans, the founder of The Vines, and Wright Lassiter, a dedicated member, entrepreneur, and renowned wine collector.

In this engaging bonus episode, you’ll hear how a two-week trip to Argentina turned into a life-changing adventure for Michael, leading to the creation of a sprawling 900-acre winemaking community where over 350 owners—including Wright—craft their own unique wines. Listeners will be inspired by Wright’s journey from his first taste of wine in Alabama to blending international vintages and launching family-dedicated wine labels that honor heritage and celebrate the joy of sharing.

Together, MJ, Michael, and Wright peel back the curtain on the global wine lifestyle—from intimate, seven-hour dinners featuring rare bottles and good company, to building one of South America’s top resorts and bringing winemakers together from around the world. Whether you’re a music fan, a connoisseur of fine living, or just passionate about life's richest experiences, this episode delivers an inside look at how beats, vines, and a zest for life come together to create unforgettable moments. Tune in and get ready to be inspired by these true mavericks of wine, travel, and culture.

For more information about The Vines Resort & Spa click the link!

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For more information about Lassiter Family Vineyards click the link!

Follow Lassiter Vines 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 Conaway Fund. The Conaway Fund is a philanthropic initiative under The Prosperity Foundation that enables donors to contribute to a fund supporting various causes, including 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.

For more information, go to The Conaway Fund, and please donate!

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

On this episode of Beats, Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down with Jay Boberg—visionary music entrepreneur and co-founder of Nicolas J Winery—for a wide-ranging, personal conversation that bridges the worlds of music, wine, and following your passions. From co-founding the legendary IRS Records at just 21, to working with icons like R.E.M., the Go-Go’s, and the Police, Jay shares stories of the early days of MTV, concert promotion at UCLA, and his unique insider perspective on how great bands (and wines) are discovered.

Jay opens up about his California roots, his lifelong love affair with wine, and the surprising parallels between crafting albums and crafting Pinot Noir in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Whether he’s talking about meeting musical legends like Bob Marley or sharing wine with renowned Burgundian winemaker Jean Nicolas Méo, Jay’s path is a testament to living a full life driven by curiosity and creativity. Tune in for a fascinating journey through music history, wine country, and what it means to truly follow your avocations—wherever they might lead.

For more information about Nicolas-Jay Winery click the link!

Follow Nicolas-Jay 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 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.

For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and please donate!

____________________________________________________________

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

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