
Beats Vines and Life
MJ Towler aka the Black Wine Guy went from a totally obsessed wine newbie to the world's first-ever African-American fine and rare wine auctioneer in less than 3 years. These days, he is a podcaster and journalist who travels the globe, having conversations with the movers, shakers, and disruptors in the worlds of food, wine, music, and more. This show pairs his passion for complex, interesting wines with complex, interesting guests. These are deep thinkers and Mavericks talking about their passions, life lessons, and inspirations - while drinking a bottle of something listeners will definitely want to savor for themselves. Sit back, listen, learn, and laugh. This is Beats Vines and Life. For more information and exclusive content, go to beatsvinesandlife.com Follow MJ on IG@blackwineguy@beatsvinesandlife Podcast produced by Marvin J. Towler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

May 1, 2023 • 1h 41min
Green Acres. Why Phillipe & Catherine Pascal Gave Up A Life of Luxury to Pursue Their Vigneron Dreams.
On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, I talk with former LVMH CEO turned Vigneron Philliope Pascal. Following a successful career in the luxury goods industry, Pascal and his wife Catherine have focused on restoring the historic Domaine Cellier aux Moines in Givry. The Domaine has been producing wine for 9 centuries in the heart of Burgundy.We discuss how climate change affects winemaking, the importance of diversity in vineyards, and the challenges of switching to organic and biodynamic practices. Phillipe shares his experiences finding the right team to commit to these practices and how they have approached making small-batch wines from select parts of their vineyard. This episode is loaded with many life lessons beyond the luxury goods and fine wine industries. Grab a glass of Red or White Burgundy and enjoy!A massive Thank You to Phillipe Pascal!Follow Cellier aux Moines on IG.For more information on their wines https://cellierauxmoines.com/en/home/This episode in-studio wines: 2020 Domaine Du Cellier Aux Moines Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru “Les Pucelles”2020 Domaine Du Cellier Aux Moines Montagny 1er Cru “Les Charmelottes” Vielle Vignes2020 Domaine Du Cellier Aux Moines Givry 1er Cru “Les Dessus” Clos Du Cellier Aux Moines2020 Domaine Du Cellier Aux Moines Givry 1er Cru Clos Du Cellier Aux Moines____________________________________________________________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.

Apr 24, 2023 • 1h 24min
From Artist to Winemaker. Bibi Graetz is one Clever, Cool, Confident Chararcter.
On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, we talk with Bibi Graetz, the iconoclast Winemaker and Owner of Bibi Graetz Wines. We take a deep dive into the world of old vineyards and winemaking with a passionate Italian winemaker. Learn about Bibi’s journey, from doubting himself as an artist to falling in love with winemaking and striving to make the best wines in the world. Discover the challenges and rewards of constantly caring for and attending to the vineyards to produce a distinct and superior product. You’ll hear about his experiences with controversial wine names and labels and his success in explaining and gaining approval for their product. Plus, join in on the discussion of the cultural differences in attitudes towards wine between Italy and the United States. Finally, tune in for a fascinating and informative episode on winemaking.A massive Thank You to Bibi Graetz!Follow Bibi on IGThis episode in-studio wines: 2021 Bibi Graetz Testamatta Bianco2019 Bibi Graetz Colore Toscana Rosso2020 Bibi Graetz Balocchi Di Colore No.3 Toscana Rosso2020 Bibi Graetz Balocchi Di Colore No.1 Toscana Rosso2020 Bibi Graetz Balocchi Di Colore No.8 Toscana Rosso____________________________________________________________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.

Apr 17, 2023 • 1h 39min
Chosen Family Wines: Disrupting the Industry One Pour at a Time!
In this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, MJ’s guests are Co-Owners of Chosen Family Wines Channing Frye and Jacob Gray. They share their journeys to the world of wine and how they found a passion for the business. Channing Frye is a former American professional basketball player and wine enthusiast. He believes that wine shouldn’t only be high-end and exclusive. But also accessible to people of all backgrounds. Frye decided to create his own wine label that is affordable yet of excellent quality to encourage people to learn and explore the world of wine. He aims to break the stereotype that only wealthy people can appreciate and afford fine wine. Frye's passion for wine has also sparked discussions on the lack of diversity in the wine industry and how it can be more inclusive.Channing and Jacob talk about disrupting the industry and curating quality wine experiences. Then, they describe the transformative power of Beaux Freres Pinot Noir from Oregon's Willamette Valley and how it helped shape their career dreams. In this candid conversation, they also share touching moments of their friendship, business, and legacy-building. Tune in to hear about their unique selling point, partnerships, and expansion plans and how they’re striving to change the wine industry's pretentious image and make wine more accessible to all.A massive Thank You to Channing Frye and Jacob Gray!For more information on Chosen Family Wines click the link.Follow Chosen Family Wines on IGFollow Channing on IGFollow Jacob on IGThis episode in-studio wines: 2021 Chosen Family Wines Willamette Valley Pinot Noir2021 Chosen Family Wines Willamette Valley Chardonnay____________________________________________________________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.

Apr 10, 2023 • 1h 41min
Skilled and Aware. How Chad Melville Has Made A Study of The Art and Business of Wine.
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 linkFollow Melville Winery on IGThis episode in-studio wines: 2021 Melville “Terraces” Pinot Noir2021 Melville “Block M” Pinot Noir____________________________________________________________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: 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 LiquidFollow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 4, 2023 • 1h 18min
Food and Wine: Unpacking the Universal Language with Bernardino Sani.
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 IGFollow Argiano Estate on IGThis episode in-studio wines: 2017 Argiano Brunello di Montalcino2020 Argiano Rosso di Montalcino2020 Argiano Solengo____________________________________________________________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: 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 LiquidFollow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 27, 2023 • 1h 25min
Cruse Control. Crafting Artisanal Wines with Michael Cruse, Winemaker for Cruse Wine Co. and Ultramarine Wines
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 IGFollow Cruse Wine Co. on IGThis episode in-studio wines: 2016 Ultramarine Blanc de BlancsNV Cruse Wine Co. Reserve Cask Sparkling 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank 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 LiquidFollow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 20, 2023 • 1h 22min
A Different World. Jasmine Hirsch’s Tales of The Real Sonoma Coast.
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 IGFollow Hirsch Vineyards on IGThis episode in-studio wines: 2021 Hirsch Vineyards Sonoma Coast Rosé of Pinot Noir2021 Hirsch Vineyards Sonoma Coast Bohan-Dillon Pinot Noir2020 Hirsch Vineyards Sonoma Coast Reserve Pinot Noir2019 Hirsch Vineyards Sonoma Coast Raschen Ridge Pinot Noir2019 Hirsch Vineyards Sonoma Coast East Ridge Pinot Noir____________________________________________________________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: 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 LiquidFollow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 13, 2023 • 1h 33min
Sometimes You Have To Be A Beauty And A Beast. Ilaria Felluga Is A True Lady Boss!
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 IGFollow Marco Felluga/Russiz Superiore on IGThis episode in-studio wines: 2021 Marco Felluga Collio Ribolla Gialla Maralba2021 Marco Felluga Collio Fruilano Amani2021 Russiz Superiore Collio Sauvignon Riserva 2019 Russiz Superiore Cabernet Franc____________________________________________________________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: 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 LiquidFollow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 6, 2023 • 1h 33min
Itsoweezee. How Tony Biagi makes crafting world-class wines look easy.
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 IGFor information about Olema Wines click the link.Follow Olema Wines on IGThis episode in-studio wines: 2020 Patria Charlie Smith Sonoma Mountain Chardonnay2016 Patria Avoyelles Oakville 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyThank 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 LiquidFollow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 27, 2023 • 1h 43min
The Power of Decision. Travis and Mario Allen's Commitment to Creating Wines of Passion, Purpose, and Precision.
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 IGThis episode in studio wines: 2020 Domaine Gangloff Condrieu2019 Domaine La Barroche Châteauneuf-Du-Pape "Pure"_____________________________________________________________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: 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 LiquidFollow Rare Liquid on IG @rareliquidclub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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