Beats Vines and Life

On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, MJ Towler invites Cris Cherry to share his insights and experiences in the wine industry. Cris, who is not religious but appreciates biblical references, discusses the importance of third-party certification to ensure accountability. Cris also highlights companies like Robert Hall, known for their conventional and regenerative blocks of wine production.The conversation delves into Cris's reflections on identity and perception and his belief that wines from the Rhone region in France, compared to Napa and Bordeaux, have a more authentic and less commercial appeal. They discuss the commercialization of certain domains in Burgundy and contrast it with traditional farmers who embody the region's essence.Cris recounts his first Hospice du Rhone experience, emphasizing the sense of community and genuine love among attendees. The conversation also touches on Cris's 22-year relationship with the James Berry Vineyard and the Smith family, his interest in Grenache, and acquiring acres devoted to this grape variety.Sustainability in winemaking and the use of herbicides become important topics of discussion, with Cris spotlighting the significance of sustainable practices. The episode also explores the concept of tribes and how people come together based on shared interests or beliefs. Seth Godin is mentioned as a fascinating marketer who believes in storytelling and effective communication.Cris shares insights into his family's background, including Swiss Italian descent and their involvement in the dairy industry. They discuss their decision to settle in their current area after considering other locations like Vale, Sun Valley, and Mexico. The speaker's father plays a role in this decision-making process, emphasizing the desire for a location with potential and a clientele that knows how to appreciate wine.There are anecdotes about encounters and relationships formed within the wine industry. The episode highlights the importance of having local and international wines on restaurant wine lists, catering to various preferences. They also explore wine regions, grape varieties, and winemaking artistry. Personal connections to the Santa Barbara wine region and the story behind acquiring land in Peachy Canyon are also shared.Please tune in to this captivating episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience to immerse yourself in Cris Cherry's journey, passion for wine, and unique perspectives on the industry.A Massive THANK YOU to Cris Cherry!!This episode’s in-studio wine, 2020 MAHA Before Anyone Else ClairetteTo learn more about MAHA Estate, click the link!Follow MAHA on IGFollow Cris Cherry 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 @blackwineguy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, host MJ Towler dives deep into the world of music, sharing exciting updates and stories with guests Seti, Mitchell Stuart, Matty, Josh, and Andrew. The episode starts with discussing WFO’s first single, 'Such a beautiful day,' which has gained nearly 8 million views on YouTube. Guests share their experiences collaborating on new music, including Seti's boys, Maddie playing the acoustic guitar, and Josh singing, who impress the host with their talent. Seti's boys also run Mission Beats, a remarkable free service in South Africa and the world. The intersection of wine and music is explored, with mentions of Andrew Rathbone and his guitar studios in Constantinople. The idea of recording in a South African vineyard frequented by baboons is entertained, along with encouraging Andrew to pursue his dream of moving his studio to LA.The episode also delves into the creative process behind music videos, including working with choreographer Holly James on a video that drew inspiration from Congolese and Afro-Cuban music and The Matrix movies. Throughout the episode, host MJ Towler converses with guest Seti, discussing changing the world and reflecting on their upbringing influenced by Marvel Comics and Bruce Lee movies. The global reach of their music, with fans from the Middle East, Dubai, UAE, and Morocco, is acknowledged, emphasizing the power of music to transcend political divisions. The formation of the band World Funk and the introduction of Cedric Sampson, who had a successful career in South Africa, also adds an exciting dynamic to the episode.Join MJ Towler and his talented guests as they share their experiences, insights, and love for music in this captivating episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience."A Massive THANK YOU to Mitchell, Seti, Josh, Matty, and Andrew!!!This episode’s in-studio wine, 2009 Constantia NectarTo learn more about World Funk Orchestra, click the link!Follow World Funk Orchestra on IGTo learn more about HQ Creative, click the link!Follow HQ Creative 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 @blackwineguy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, host MJ Towler interviews, Mark C. Adams. Mark shares his journey from working at Sony Pictures to becoming an assistant winemaker at Saxum and eventually starting his vineyard. He discusses the challenges of soil supplementation. He shares insights on the changes in the wine industry, the importance of soil quality and farming techniques, and his focus on creating Grenache-centric blends and varietal-driven wines. He gives his take on the relationship between business and art in the region and his plans for creating estate wines. Mark talks about the mistakes he has made in winemaking. Lastly, he shares his thoughts on his winery's boutique status and expansion plans. This episode sheds insight into the life of a winemaker and how they navigate the changing industry. Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the art and science of winemaking and the passion required to create exceptional wines.A Massive THANK YOU to Mark C. Adams!!!This episode’s in-studio wine, 2018 Ledge MCA CuveeTo learn more about Ledge Vineyards, click the link!Follow Ledge Vineyards on IGFollow Mark 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 @blackwineguy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience, the podcast where we discover some of the fascinating stories behind wines and the personalities behind them. In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Singer. Stephen has been a wine retailer and consultant. He is a restaurateur and was involved with Chez Panisse, Table 29, and César Stephen has been an importer of the finest olive oils. He is now a vintner passionate about delivering the finest representation of his vineyard in California.Stephen Singer has a long history in food and wine. He traveled extensively throughout Europe and developed a love for Tuscan olive oil, which he started importing into Chez Panisse in the early '90s. From there, his interests evolved into wine, and his curiosity and passion have taken him on a journey to establishing his own winery Baker Lane Estate.In this episode, Stephen shares how his love for artisan ingredients led him to create a connection with people through food. He also talks about his experiences with different wines he has tasted and the unique qualities of the soil and growing conditions that have made his winemaking in California a fascinating process.We talk about how Stephen and his vineyard manager, Greg Adams, work together to empower the vine and the fruit to communicate the best flavors in their wines. They use different strategies for farming and managing the plants and the winemaking process. Stephen and Greg's collaboration makes winemaking so interesting for Stephen, allowing them to hit a new benchmark in their wine production.Please tune in to this exciting episode for all this and more as Stephen Singer shares his passion and expertise in crafting wines representing the essence of his vineyard's terroir.A Massive THANK YOU to Stephen Singer!!!To learn more about Baker Lane Estate, click the link!Follow Singer Wine on IG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to a bonus episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience. In this episode, I was joined by guests Lisa Tosolini and Michael Wangbickler to discuss the intricacies of Grappa, an Italian spirit distilled from grape skins.The episode began with the announcement of some upcoming events, including two master classes at Bar Convent, two workshops at Eataly Flatiron, and a Mixology contest at Hometown BBQ in Industry City on Thursday, June 15th. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about Grappa, taste various producers, and try out cocktail creations made by 10 Mixologists competing for a significant cash prize.My guests discussed the process of distilling Grappa, which takes place during the harvest months and involves a team-determined set of parameters to ensure the desired outcome. The production and distillation process used, from fresh grapes to the different steels used, contributes to the unique qualities and characteristics of the Grappa produced.The world of Grappa is vast and diverse, and there is a need for its introduction to the US market. Lisa and Michael shared their insight into the importance of passing down family traditions within the Grappa business and how the European Union protects the spirit's Italian terroir.The Hello Grappa campaign also aims to raise awareness of the product and its geographic indication (GI) through educational and promotional events in the US. They have planned several week-long events across the US. The NYC event begins with a trade show at Bar Convent in Brooklyn this week.Overall, this episode provides an in-depth insight into the world of Grappa and the importance of preserving family traditions within the business while promoting the spirit to a broader audience.I hope you enjoy this bonus episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience.Just so you know, the Mixologoly Contest will take place on Thursday June 15th from 5:00 to 9:00 PM at Hometown BBQ in Industry City, Brooklyn.A Massive THANK YOU to Lisa Tossolini and Michael Wangbickler!!!To register for Hello Grappa NYC, click the link!Follow Hello Grappa 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 @blackwineguy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, my guest is Count Michael Goëss-Enzberg, caretaker of the historic Manincor Estate in Caldaro, Alto Adige.The historical buildings date back to 1608. They were built by Hieronymus Manincor. For his loyalty to the Crown of Austria, the Emperor elevated him to nobility status and bestowed him with land on the shores of Lake Kaltern.Hieronymus adapted his family’s coat-of-arms to symbolize “Man-in-cor” (meaning “Hand on the heart”). It can still be seen on the facade of the winery building today. In 1662 his granddaughter married an ancestor of Count Enzenberg. The Enzenberg family has been growing wine grapes since the end of the 17th century. Historical documents refer to Enzenberg wine cellars in Terlano, Caldaro, and Schwaz in what is now North Tyrol. In 1978 the estate finally passed to Count Enzenberg. We hear about Count Michael’s journey from California to Terlano and how he adopted biodynamic principles to ensure a natural approach to winemaking. We learn about the unique challenges and beauty of growing wine in the region, with its wide variety of grapes and the wide range of altitudes where wine is grown. We also delve into the importance of service in the wine industry and how it can make all the difference in creating memorable experiences for customers. Join us as we discover true farm-to-table cooking and how the presence of animals can help bring Soul back to the vineyard and create harmonious work and growing conditions.A Massive THANK YOU to Count Michael Goëss-Enzberg!!!To learn more about Manincor Wine Estate, click the link!Follow Manincor 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 @blackwineguy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, my guests are Brian Larky and Scott Ades of Dalla Terra Winery Direct. Dalla Terra, which means “of the earth” in Italian, is a national agent and direct importer of a small and select group of leading, family-owned wineries and spirits producers in Italy. Dalla Terra was founded in 1990 by Brian Larky. Brian Larky is a wine enthusiast fascinated by Italy's vast selection of over 600 varietals. He fell in love with working in the Italian wine industry after receiving an invitation to work at Ca’ del Bosco in Lombardy’s Franciacorta region in 1985. Brian's love for diversity in wine led him to create Dalla Terra, which allows him to explore the diverse regions of Italy, from volcanoes to beaches, deserts to mountains, and everything in between. Brian hopes to introduce people to new wines they've never heard of while sharing some familiar favorites.Scott Ades joined Dalla Terra in November 2016. Prior to joining Dalla Terra, Scott was the COO of The Winebow Group, overseeing distribution sales, operations, and supply chain. Scott began his career as an investment banker, working for Salomon Brothers and Lehman Brothers.We discuss Brian’s “Bear Grylls” alter-ego from sailing to leading exotic expeditions around the globe before getting into Scott’s move from finance to fine wine. This episode is chock full of great stories and insights.A Massive Thank You to Brain Larky and Scott Ades!To learn more about Dalla Terra Winery Direct, click the link!Follow Dalla Terra Winery Direct 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 @blackwineguy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, my guest is Cliff Lede, winemaker Chris Tynan. Chris and discuss his passion for winemaking and his path to success. This episode will delve into Chris’s deep knowledge of wine production, farming practices, wineries, and vintages.We talk about how his style and approach to winemaking have evolved, and he has achieved balance in their wines by bringing down alcohol levels. They emphasize the importance of organic farming practices to produce high-quality grapes that reflect the region's terroir. Chris also explains the impact of climate change on grape production and how they harvest earlier to maintain natural acidity and protect the fruit.We explore various vineyards in Napa and Sonoma, including regions like Mount Veeder, Spring Mountain, and Diamond Mountain, and the unique characteristics of their wines. Chris takes us through the challenges faced during a heat wave and how he overcame them with advanced tools and a highly trained staff.The episode also discusses the importance of tasting great wines to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of winemaking. Chris shares his journey of tasting great wines from the 60s and 70s, including Heitz Martha's Vineyard, Mayacmas, and old Chappellets. Overall, this episode is packed with valuable insights and information for anyone interested in winemaking and will leave you with a newfound appreciation for this age-old craft.A massive Thank You to Chris Tynan!To learn more about Cliff Lede Vineyards, click the link!Follow Cliff Lede Vineyards on IGTo learn more about Christopher Tynan Wines click the link!This episode in-studio wines: 2022 Cliff Lede Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc2019 Cliff Lede Roundabout Midnight Napa Valley Red Wine2019 Cliff Lede Poetry Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon2009 Cliff Lede Poetry Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon____________________________________________________________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 @blackwineguy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, my guest is Chef Tanya Holland a renowned culinary expert who has made a name for herself in the food industry. Born and raised in a diverse community, Chef Tanya grew up experiencing a unique blend of cultures and economic classes. Her passion for food began at a young age. After majoring in Russian literature at UVA, she found her way into the world of hospitality. Chef Tanya gained valuable experience working in restaurants and catering companies before establishing her own business. We explore the journey of a woman who defied expectations and charted her course in the culinary world. Along the way, we hear stories of working with renowned chefs, forging her path, and always prioritizing professional development. Join us as we delve into the culinary experiences that shaped her life, her love for trying new things, and how she continues to pursue her passion.Today, she is known for her innovative recipes, which blend traditional African-American cuisine with modern flavors and techniques. Her culinary expertise has earned her numerous accolades, including top honors from industry organizations and media outlets. Chef Tanya also advocates for diversity in the culinary industry and empowers young chefs from underrepresented communities.A massive Thank You to Chef Tanya Holland!Click the link to purchase a signed copy of her latest book California Soul!For more information about Chef Tanya, subscribe to her newsletter here:  https://www.tanyaholland.com/Follow Chef Tanya on IGThis episode in-studio wines: 2022 Where’s Linus? Sauvignon 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, MJ’s guest is winemaker Adam Howard Lee. MJ and Adam discuss his journey into winemaking. From discussing the decision to sell his winery, Siduri, to the benefits of screw caps over cork closures, the conversation is as varied as it is intriguing. From Dial Tone and Busy Signal to Moret-Brealynn Wines, we talk about all the projects Adam has his hands in. Listeners will also learn about creating the unique BeauMarchais Pinot Noir, a collaborative effort with the late, great Philippe Cambie. We get into a discussion on the importance of family, DNA, and our choices. You’ll also hear the emotional story of Adam's mother's passing. Join us as we highlight the power of community, the importance of cherishing those we love, and the simple joys that can be found in a glass of wine.A massive Thank You to Adam Howard Lee!For more information on Adam’s wines https://claricewinecompany.com/For more information on Busy Signal and Dial Tone https://busysignalwine.com/For more information on Moret-Brealynn Wines https://moretbrealynnwines.com/Follow Clarice Wine Company on IG.Follow Adam on IG.Follow Môret-Brealynn Wines on IGThis episode in-studio wines: 2021 Beau Marchais Pinot Noir Soberanes Vineyard Nord Santa Lucia Highlands2021 Busy Signal Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir2018 Clarice Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands Gary’s Vineyard____________________________________________________________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 @blackwineguy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.