Beats Vines and Life

Welcome back to "The Black Wine Guy Experience," where your host MJ Towler takes you on a flavorful journey of wine, life, and laughter. In episode 146, we're joined by the effervescent John Coyle, a man as rich in stories as he is in his knowledge of wine. Today, we're popping the cork on an array of topics; we'll dribble into tales of full-court basketball at Boston Garden and saunter through the vineyards of John's path from the hard streets of Roxbury to the eclectic essence of Venice, California.We'll sip on the bold flavors of John's experiences as he shares his antics at the Harvey Krishna Center, his leap into the world of wine inspired by a past partner's passion for the vineyard's nectar, and his ambitious strides in the entertainment industry. As we swirl our glasses, we'll get intoxicating insights into the hustle of comedy, the tenacity required to fuel a podcast for over 230 episodes, and the grit needed to make it in the competitive arenas of acting, stand-up, and sales.Our glasses will brim with honesty as we touch on the transformative power of genuine connections in an age overshadowed by technology, the need for a balance with our libations, and the comedic drama that can unfold on the stages of New York City's revered Comedy Store. With laughter and reflections on societal shifts, we'll clink to the impact of storytelling in our lives, the cultural tapestry of Boston, and the significance of embracing our roots and rites of passage.Prepare to be entertained and engaged as MJ Towler and John Coyle discuss everything from non-alcoholic beers to the spiritual reverence of Syrah—this is an episode that's as diverse and storied as the guests themselves. So pour yourself a glass, settle in, and let's dive into this riveting episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience. Cheers!A Massive THANK YOU to JOHN COYLE!!!This episode’s wines: 2021 Clément & Florian Bertjier “Terre De Silex”     2020 Fabrizio Dionisio Linfa Cortona Syrah For more information about DOTJ Podcast click the link!Follow John on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience a 5-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at Blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In this episode, our host MJ Towler is joined by the incredible Karen MacNeil for a captivating conversation about the world of wine, writing, and media. They delve into the dichotomy of delayed gratification in writing books versus the immediate feedback from digital media, and Karen's opposition to Dry January, advocating instead for moderation and the cultural significance of wine. They share personal experiences, from the joys of working in the wine industry to the challenges of creating valuable content in the digital media space. Stay tuned as they discuss the impact of societal changes and misinformation on the wine industry, and the unifying nature of wine in bringing people together. So grab a glass of your favorite wine and tune in for an enriching and enlightening episode!A Massive THANK YOU to KAREN MACNEIL!!!For more information about Karen click the link!To subscribe to Wine Speed click the link!Follow Karen on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience a 5-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at Blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience, where we explore the world of wine from unique and diverse perspectives. In this episode, our host, MJ Towler, is joined by the incredibly knowledgeable and passionate Danielle Callegari, a professor at Dartmouth College. Together, they delve into a captivating discussion that covers a wide range of topics, from the complexities of Italian wines to academia and Dante's influence. Join us as we uncover the fascinating world of wine and the rich experiences that shape our appreciation for it. Tune in as we sip into the depths of Italian culture, academia, and the sensory pleasure of wine in this enlightening and engaging conversation on The Black Wine Guy Experience.A Massive THANK YOU to DR. DANIELLE CALLEGARI!!!This episode’s wines: 2019 Mastroberardino 'Stilema' Fiano di Avellino Riserva DOCG        2022 Massican Gemina California White Wine To purchase Danielle’s book Dante's Gluttons click the link!Listen to The Gola Podcast Follow Danielle on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience a 5-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at Blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience. In this episode, our host MJ Towler, sits down with the remarkable Lisa Perotti-Brown, a true trailblazer in the world of wine. Lisa shares her extraordinary journey from a small town in Maine to becoming a Master of Wine and co-founding The Wine Independent. Join us as Lisa discusses her experiences working with renowned wine critic Robert Parker and her mission to provide unbiased and quality wine criticism. From her early days in London's wine scene to her global adventures in Singapore and Tokyo, Lisa's story is one of determination, passion, and a deep appreciation for the art of fine wine. Get ready for an insightful and inspiring conversation with a true influencer in the world of wine.A Massive THANK YOU to LISA PEROTTI-BROWN!!!For more information about The Wine Independent click the link!Follow The Wine Independent on IG!Follow Lisa on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience a 5-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at Blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank you to our sponsor, Walla Walla Wine. The primary mission of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance is to build an internationally acclaimed Walla Walla Valley wine brand among consumers, media, and trade by providing marketing programs on behalf of member wineries, vineyards, and partners. The Wine Alliance functions as the leading informational resource for consumers, media, and members of the trade interested in learning more about the Valley’s wine industry.Find out more at Walla Walla Wine! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience, where captivating conversations about wine, music, and life take center stage. In this episode, host MJ Towler welcomes Owen Bargreen. A clinical psychologist by day, Owen is a Level 2 Sommelier. He is the creator of OwenBargreen.com, where he exhibits his deep expertise in California, Oregon, and Washington wines. Together, MJ and Owen dive into a wide range of topics, from the intriguing world of wine tasting and criticism to candid discussions about their personal backgrounds and experiences. Join us as we explore the fascinating intersection of wine, sports, psychology, and the human experience with our insightful guest, Owen Bargreen.A Massive THANK YOU to OWEN BARGREEN!!!This episode’s wines: 2021 Holocene "Memorialis" Pinot Noir      2022 Woodward Canyon “Washington” ChardonnayFor more information about Owen Bargreen click the link!Follow Owen on IG!To learn more about Holocene Wines, click the link!Follow Holocene Wines on IG!To learn more about Woodward Canyon Wines, click the link!Follow Woodward Canyon on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give The Black Wine Guy Experience a 5-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at Blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank you to our sponsor, Walla Walla Wine. The primary mission of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance is to build an internationally acclaimed Walla Walla Valley wine brand among consumers, media, and trade by providing marketing programs on behalf of member wineries, vineyards, and partners. The Wine Alliance functions as the leading informational resource for consumers, media, and members of the trade interested in learning more about the Valley’s wine industry.Find out more at Walla Walla Wine! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, host MJ Towler welcomes Kelsey Itämeri, the owner and winemaker of Ita Wines. Kelsey shares her fascinating journey from political campaign manager to reality TV production assistant, sales manager, and bartender before finding her passion for winemaking. From challenging work environments to finding joy in making wine, Kelsey's story is one of resilience and determination. She discusses her experiences in the wine industry, including her decision to make six different wines at a custom crush facility and her unique approach to wine production. Listeners will also hear about her time in Burgundy, France, and how she brings her diverse experiences and palate to craft exceptional wines. Tune in to learn about Kelsey's compelling journey and her philosophy behind designing a life filled with passion and purpose.A Massive THANK YOU to KELSEY ITÄMERI!!!This episode’s wine: 2022 Itä Semillion No.1To learn more about Itä Wines, click the link!Follow Kelsey on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophiss, 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank you to our sponsor, Walla Walla Wine. The primary mission of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance is to build an internationally acclaimed Walla Walla Valley wine brand among consumers, media, and trade by providing marketing programs on behalf of member wineries, vineyards, and partners. The Wine Alliance functions as the leading informational resource for consumers, media, and members of the trade interested in learning more about the Valley’s wine industry.Find out more at Walla Walla Wine! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, host MJ Towler sits down with the inspiring Devyani Gupta, a remarkable figure in the wine industry. Devyani shares her journey, from working multiple jobs while pursuing her passion for winemaking in Walla Walla to her current role as a winemaker and viticulturist at Valdemar Estates. Throughout the episode, she discusses her experiences, including her internships, mentorship programs, and dedication to making the wine industry more inclusive. With an in-depth look at her winemaking philosophy and personal connections to the industry.Devyani's story is one of determination, passion, and a deep love for wine. Stick around to hear about her favorite wines, her role in the Washington State Wine Commission, and her fascinating journey into winemaking, all on this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience.A Massive THANK YOU to DEVANYI GUPTA!!!This episode’s wines: 2020 Valdemar Estate Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon To learn more about Valdemar Estates, click the link!Follow Valdemar EstatesFollow Devyani on IG!____________________________________________________________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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank you to our sponsor, Walla Walla Wine. The primary mission of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance is to build an internationally acclaimed Walla Walla Valley wine brand among consumers, media, and trade by providing marketing programs on behalf of member wineries, vineyards, and partners. The Wine Alliance functions as the leading informational resource for consumers, media, and members of the trade interested in learning more about the Valley’s wine industry.Find out more at Walla Walla Wine! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In this episode, our host, MJ Towler, is joined by the talented winemaker Brooke Robertson from Delmas Wines. This engaging conversation covers a wide range of topics, from the significance of seeking knowledge and insights into the Walla Walla Valley's distinctive wine production to personal experiences in Napa Valley. Brooke shares her journey into winemaking, her family's deep roots in the wine industry, and the challenges they faced in pursuing their vineyard dream. Tune in as they explore academia, winemaking philosophy, and the unique characteristics of different wine regions. Join us as we uncork this insightful and dynamic exploration of winemaking, academia, personal journey, and the inspirational story of a winemaker with a deep passion for her craft.A Massive THANK YOU to BROOKE ROBERTSON!!!This episode’s wines: Delmas Field Blend Multi-VintageTo learn more about Delmas Wines, click the link!Follow Brooke on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophiss, 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank you to our sponsor, Walla Walla Wine. The primary mission of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance is to build an internationally acclaimed Walla Walla Valley wine brand among consumers, media, and trade by providing marketing programs on behalf of member wineries, vineyards, and partners. The Wine Alliance functions as the leading informational resource for consumers, media, and members of the trade interested in learning more about the Valley’s wine industry.Find out more at Walla Walla Wine! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's episode, our host, MJ Towler, sits down with the extraordinary Stacy Buchanon, who delves deep into his diverse and captivating journey. From pioneering street team marketing for major corporations to venturing into the wine industry and creating the innovative "Blood of Gods" zine, Stacy's story is nothing short of enthralling.Stacy Buchanon was born in Walla Walla in 1980, where his family has been involved in wheat farming and barley for generations. Growing up, he was unaware of the burgeoning wine industry in his hometown but later discovered its slow rise. After leaving Walla Walla for 8 years to work in the music industry, Stacy returned to find his sleepy town transformed by the growing wine industry.During their conversation, Stacy shares his experiences in the music industry, his transition to the wine world, and the intricacies of launching an independent print magazine. They discuss the rich culture in Walla Walla, the nuances of wine varieties, and the value of family and community support.Tune in as Stacy shares his unique perspectives, insights into the wine and heavy metal industries, and the inspiration behind his remarkable projects. Get ready for an episode filled with engaging anecdotes, valuable lessons, and a celebration of passion and creativity. Stay tuned for an unforgettable experience with Stacy Buchanon on The Black Wine Guy Experience!A Massive THANK YOU to STACY BUCHANON!!!This episode’s wines: NoneTo learn more about Blood of Gods, click the link!Follow Blood of Gods on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophiss, 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank you to our sponsor, Walla Walla Wine. The primary mission of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance is to build an internationally acclaimed Walla Walla Valley wine brand among consumers, media, and trade by providing marketing programs on behalf of member wineries, vineyards, and partners. The Wine Alliance functions as the leading informational resource for consumers, media, and members of the trade interested in learning more about the Valley’s wine industry.Find out more at Walla Walla Wine! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, host MJ Towler sits down with special guest Seth Kitze for an insightful and engaging conversation. Seth grew up in the Yakima Valley, where wine grapes were just starting to gain popularity. Although there were only a few vineyards in the area, people were beginning to make quality wine. However, at that time, Washington state consumers were not as passionate about wine as they are today. Seth observed the growth of the wine industry and the expansion of the Tri-Cities area, which used to primarily focus on cherries and apples. Despite the limited resources, Seth witnessed the evolution of winemaking in the region.They delve into not only Seth's experiences in the snowboarding industry and the challenges of making ends meet but also his transition into the world of winemaking and the unique journey that led him to become a co-owner and winemaker of Kinsey Cellars Upside Down and the Devil is a Liar Wine. The discussion spans from the techniques of winemaking to the personal journey and passion that fuels Seth's dedication to creating exceptional wines. Join us as we explore the intersection of athleticism, determination, and the art of winemaking in this captivating episode.A Massive THANK YOU to SETH KITZE!!!This episode’s wines: 2022 Upsidedown Columbia Valley Roussanne     2021 Upsidedown Washington State “Sage’s Wine “     2018 Giovanni Montisci Barrosu Vino Rosso FranziscaTo learn more about Upsidedown Wines, click the link!Follow Seth & Audrey on IG!To learn more about The Devil is a Liar Wines, click the link!Follow The Devil is a Liar Wine on IG____________________________________________________________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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank you to our sponsor, Walla Walla Wine. The primary mission of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance is to build an internationally acclaimed Walla Walla Valley wine brand among consumers, media, and trade by providing marketing programs on behalf of member wineries, vineyards, and partners. The Wine Alliance functions as the leading informational resource for consumers, media, and members of the trade interested in learning more about the Valley’s wine industry.Find out more at Walla Walla Wine! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.