Beats Vines and Life

Latest Episodes:

From Shelf Stocker to Winemaker: Chris Cottrell's Remarkable Journey from Shaolin to Sonoma! Nov 08, 2023

Show notes

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's episode, we have a special guest joining us, the incredible Chris Cottrell. Chris is a true wine industry enthusiast with a fascinating journey into the world of wine. From his humble beginnings as a shelf stocker, Chris has grown to become a respected figure in the industry.

Join our host, MJ Towler, as they dive into Chris's experiences, starting with the unexpected job he found through Craigslist. They reminisce about the vibrant energy of the early 2000s wine industry and the cool projects they were a part of.

But it wasn't just about the job for Chris. He was drawn to the artistry and storytelling of wine, developing his palate by tasting different wines at Crush. With a fondness for Zinfandel and a particular love for the Old Hill vineyard, Chris's passion for wine is evident in every conversation.

But that's not all! Chris also drops some exciting news – he's getting married in May. Tune in to hear more about this upcoming celebration and his thoughts on the future of the wine industry.

So grab a glass of your favorite red, sit back, and join us for this captivating episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience with our special guest, Chris Cottrell!

A Massive THANK YOU to Chris Cottrell!!!

This episode’s wines: 2011 Under The Wire Sparkling Wine Chardonnay

Brosseau Vineyard

2021 Bedrock Morgan Red Wine Old Hill Ranch Sonoma

2017 Sky Vineyards Mt. Veeder Syrah Napa Valley

To learn more about Under The Wire Wines, click the link!

Follow Chris on IG!

To learn more about Bedrock Wine Co. click the link!

Follow Bedrock Wine on IG!

Listen to Bedrock Wine Conversations Podcast!

To learn more about Sky Vineyards click the link!

Follow Sky Vineyards on IG!

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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, Grenache Study. The Grenachenaissance© is upon us! Find out more at Grenache Study

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

The Art of Savoring: Enhancing Your Life through the Power of Taste and Appreciation with Mandy Naglisch Nov 01, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience, where we dive deep into the world of taste and flavor. In today's episode, we have an exceptional guest, Mandy Naglish, a renowned food and beverage journalist, beer educator, and author. Mandy is here to share her expertise on tasting and exploring flavors and how they can truly enhance our life experience.

MJ and Mandy delve into the fascinating realm of blind tasting, exploring how visual perception can influence taste perception. They discuss the impact of different visual cues on our experience of beer and wine and how being mindful of flavor can make every sip more enjoyable.

They also touch on the often overlooked aftertaste of wine and the importance of paying attention to it when pairing with food. Mandy shares insights from her book, "How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life," which covers topics ranging from wine and cheese to ice cream, honey, tea, chocolate, and even water.

Throughout the episode, MJ and Mandy weave together their expertise to uncover the secrets of tasting and savoring flavors, opening up a world of possibilities for our palates.

So join us on this exciting journey as we learn how to get more enjoyment from what we taste on The Black Wine Guy Experience with MJ Towler and special guest Mandy Naglish!

A Massive THANK YOU to Mandy Naglischi!!!

This episode’s wine: Campo Viejo Cava Brut Reserva NV

To learn more about How to Taste, click the link!

Follow How to Tatse Book on IG

Follow Mandy on IG

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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, GrenacheFest. The First Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla Washington is coming to the Motor Co. on Friday, November 3rd, 2023, starting at 5 pm with a seated comparative seminar, followed at 7 pm by live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines and tons of fun!

Purchase your tickets at GrenacheFest.

Follow GrenacheFest on IG

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

Unveiling a New Wine Culture: JM and the Urban Wine Tribe Movement. Oct 23, 2023

Show notes

Ladies and gentlemen, wine enthusiasts, and curious minds welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's episode, "JM’shi Urban Wine Tribe," we dive deep into wine culture, diversity, and the relentless pursuit of creating and challenging oneself.

Our host, MJ Towler, sits down with the incredible JM, a passionate wine influencer and content creator who believes that the wine industry lacks diversity and aims to create his own vibrant subculture within it.

Join us as JM shares his vision of making wine more accessible, exploring personal preferences, and bridging different worlds together. From his unique journey, including an unexpected foray into the wine world after a poker club endeavor, to hisr love for creating iconic pairings, JM captivates with his dynamic personality and keen insights.

Get ready to sip, savor, and explore the fascinating world of wine with JM and MJ on this exhilarating episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! So, grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let's uncork the stories and flavors that await us.

Cheers!

A Massive THANK YOU to JM!!!

This episode’s wines: 2021 Cakebread Cellars Napa Valley Chardonnay Reserve

2019 Johanneshof Reinisch St. Laurent

To learn more about Urban Wine Tribe, click the link!

Follow JM on IG

Subscribe to Urban Wine Tribe TV YouTube!

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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, GrenacheFest. The First Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, is coming to the Motor Co. on Friday, November 3rd, 2023, starting at 5 p.m. with a seated comparative seminar, followed at 7 p.m. by live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun.

Purchase your tickets at GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

Wine, Hustle, and Determination: Malek Amrani's Path to Wine Industry Success. Oct 16, 2023

Show notes

Welcome back to another episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today, we are thrilled to have an incredible guest joining us, Malek Amrani.

Malek's story is a true testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. From his humble beginnings in Morocco to becoming a renowned figure in the wine industry, Malek has overcome countless obstacles to achieve success.

In this episode, Malek takes us on a journey through his life, sharing his challenges, the pivotal moments that shaped his path, and the passion and drive propelling him forward. Get ready to be inspired by Malek Amrani's incredible rags-to-riches story. Let's dive in!

A Massive THANK YOU to Malek Amrani!!!

This episode’s wines: 2021 The Vice Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

2018 The Vice “Night Cap” Napa Valley Port of Petite Sirah

To learn more about The Vice Wine, click the link!

Follow The Vice Wine on IG

Follow Malek Idea on IG

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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, GrenacheFest. The First Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, is coming to the Motor Co. on Friday, November 3rd, 2023, starting at 5 pm with a seated comparative seminar, followed at 7 pm by live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun!

Purchase your tickets at GrenacheFest.

Follow GrenacheFest on IG

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

Behind the Beats and Bottles: Will Tell's Experiences as a Hip-Hop Producer and Wine Connoisseur. Oct 09, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In this episode, a special guest joins MJ: the world-renowned hip-hop music producer, MC, and entrepreneur Will Tell. With an impressive roster of collaborations featuring artists like A Tribe Called Quest, Wu-Tang Clan, and Daryl DMC McDaniels, Will has significantly impacted the music industry. But that's not all - he is also the CEO of the True Wine Connoisseurs Group and a board member of The Felix Organization.

In this conversation, MJ and Will delve into the multifaceted world of hip-hop, exploring the concept of respect and understanding in the music industry. They discuss the importance of not only one's lyrical prowess but also the business acumen needed to thrive in the industry. From Rakim's underappreciated legacy to Jay-Z's successful venture into entrepreneurship, they examine artists' different paths to earn respect and recognition.

But that's not all this episode has to offer. Will also shares his passion for wine and his journey to becoming a connoisseur. From discovering Amarone wine while working for Winebow to his love for big, bold, dry red wines, Will's insights into the wine world are not to be missed.

So join us as we dive into the fascinating world of hip-hop, wine, and the intersection of artistry and business with the one and only Will Tell. Get ready for an engaging and enlightening conversation on The Black Wine Guy Experience.

A Massive THANK YOU to Will Tell!!

This episode’s wines: True Wine Connossiuers NV Prosecco

True Wine Connossiuers 2020 U.N.I.T.Y Pinot Grigio D.O.C

True Wine Connossiuers 2019 "When in Rome" Cabernet IGT

Follow True Wine Connossieurs on IG!

Follow Will Tell on IG!

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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

Purchase your tickets at GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

Celebrate Merlot! The Pursuit of Perfection: Unveiling the Secrets of Merlot in Walla Walla Valley Oct 03, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's episode, titled "Celebrate Merlot," we have a fantastic lineup of guests joining our host, MJ Towler. Get ready to dive deep into the world of wine as we explore the fascinating journey of our speaker, who not only works for a winery but is fully invested in every aspect of its activities. Our speakers are true connoisseurs, from tasting and selling to discussing and learning.

We'll discover how the art of winemaking is like providing tableside service with a closed bottle, where listening to customer preferences and recommending wines becomes an intriguing dance.

Drawing upon their backgrounds as musicians and artists, our speakers share how looking beyond the surface to understand the deeper meaning of things plays a crucial role in the context of hospitality. This connection to the arts transcends into the winemaking process, as simplicity on paper becomes a challenge in achieving greatness.

But today, our focus is on Merlot. The speakers discovered this wine when they were all younger and realized it was extraordinary.

Throughout this episode, we'll explore the pursuit of perfection in the wine industry and the constant quest for knowledge. Our speaker's influence in the Washington wine scene is undeniable, and they'll share their insights into the growth of Walla Walla and its reputation for producing great wine.

Join us as we learn about our speaker's journey from practicing law to discovering his passion for wine. We'll delve into their studies in biology and neuroscience and how these disciplines intersected with their first career path. We'll also discuss their current role in the wine industry, obsession with blind tastings, and the importance of developing a refined palate.

Get ready to explore the hyper-local and enthusiastic world of Walla Walla, where old and new combine to create innovative and unique wines. Discover how the speakers' love for wine is deeply rooted in community, shared meals, and the joy of recommending honest wines to their customers.

So please sit back, relax, and uncork your favorite bottle of Merlot as we embark on a journey of exploration, knowledge, and celebration. This is The Black Wine Guy Experience. Let's raise a glass and celebrate Merlot!

Special thanks to Walla Walla Wine

Jay Krutulis, Owner & Winemaker, Prospice Wines

Morgan Joseph, Walla Walla Valley Wine Enthusiast

Robert Gomez, Owner & Winemaker, Hoquetus Wine

Kaleigh Brook, Manager, The Thief Fine Wine & Spirits - Advanced Sommelier / WSET Diploma

Jason Fox, Owner & Winemaker, Lagana Cellars – for being our wine pourer!

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

From Surfer to Winemaker: Glen Goodall's Remarkable Journey in the Margaret River. Sep 25, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience. In this installment, host MJ Towler sits down with the esteemed Glen Goodall, a well-respected and recognized wine journalist in Australia. Glen takes us on a journey through the world of winemaking in Margaret River, discussing everything from organic wines to the importance of diversity in the industry. He shares fascinating insights into his winemaking process, including using oak barrels and carefully blending parcels to create the perfect flavor profile. Glen also delves into the challenges faced during the 2020 season, highlighting the impact of the pandemic on the handpicking process.

Join us as we uncover the secrets behind Glen's award-winning wines and the camaraderie that drives his passion for winemaking. Get ready for an episode filled with captivating stories and a deep dive into the world of Margaret River wines. This is The Black Wine Guy Experience with special guest Glenn Goodall.

A Massive THANK YOU to Glenn!!

This episode’s wines: The Xanadu Collection

To learn more about Xanadu Wines, click the link!

Follow Xanadu Wines on IG

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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

Purchase your tickets at GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

Grenache Day Bonus Episode! Garnacha Glory: Exploring the Future and Excitement of Grenache Wines. Sep 18, 2023

Show notes

In this bonus episode, MJ welcomes two fantastic guests to the show: Carolina de Funes, the Manager of the Spanish Association of Garnacha and the Manager of the European Garnacha Grenache Quality Wines Program, and Eric Aracil, Associated Manager of the European Garnacha Grenache Quality Wines Program and Export Manager of the Conseil Interprofessionnel des Vins du Roussillon Wines/CIVR. Together, they explore their passion for Grenache and share their expertise on this incredible grape variety.

During the episode, MJ and his guests delve into the diverse world of Grenache, discussing its resilience, flavors, and styles. They highlight the importance of balance and the fascinating winemaking process behind different types of Grenache wines, from dry to sweet. You'll also learn about the magic of old vines and how they contribute to producing high-quality fruit.

The conversation becomes even more exciting as MJ, and his guests discuss their experiences in the wine industry and their collaboration on various programs and projects. They touch on their international ventures in the US, Canada, and Asia, showcasing the global reach of their wine endeavors.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Grenache Day with this compelling bonus episode. Don't forget to check the show notes for more information and resources related to Grenache and Garnacha wines.

A Massive THANK YOU to Carolina and Eric!!!

This episode’s wines: Grenache & Garnacha

To learn more about GarnachaGrenache, click the link!

Follow Wines of Garnacha on IG

To learn more about Vins du Roussillon, click the link!

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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

Purchase your tickets at GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

Folktales On The Wine Route: Gregory Ahn's Fantastic Voyage in Food, Wine & Life. Sep 11, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to another exciting edition of The Black Wine Guy Experience newsletter. In this episode, host MJ Towler sits down with the brilliant Greg Ahn to delve into the captivating world of brand building and the impact of cultural influences on the wine industry. Get ready for an enlightening and thought-provoking discussion!

Greg Ahn shares his incredible journey from the corporate world to the wine industry in the episode. With experience at Seagram and his own successful ventures, including Cannonball and Bread and Butter, Greg brings a wealth of knowledge and experiences to the table.

One of the key topics we explore in this episode is the art of brand building. Greg Ahn shares his insights on how he identified untapped opportunities in the wine market and strategically built brands that resonated with consumers. From focusing solely on Cabernet with Cannonball to creating a cheeky label for Bread and Butter, Greg demonstrates how creativity, storytelling, and positioning can elevate a brand's success.

We also delve into the fascinating influence of different cultures on wine appreciation and consumption. Greg Ahn's Korean-American background and experiences in New England and Los Angeles shaped his perspective on the wine industry. Join us as we explore how cultural diversity enriches the wine world and the importance of representation within the industry.

As always, our aim with The Black Wine Guy Experience is to provide you with engaging content that unravels the mysteries of the wine world. From captivating stories to expert insights, we strive to entertain, educate, and inspire wine enthusiasts like you.

Take advantage of this intriguing episode featuring Greg Ahn. Tune in to The Black Wine Guy Experience podcast and immerse yourself in the world of brand building, cultural influences, and the fascinating art of winemaking.

Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more exciting episodes with fascinating guests. Remember to subscribe, review, and share the podcast with fellow wine enthusiasts who appreciate great storytelling and wine knowledge.

Cheers to a wonderful wine journey!

A Massive THANK YOU to Gregory Ahn!!!

This episode’s wines: There were none!

To learn more about Folktale Winery, click the link!

Follow Folktale Winery on IG

To learn more about Mezcal Mala Idea click the link!

Follow Mezcal Mala Idea on IG

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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

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

Unveiling Walla Walla's Hidden Gems: Marc Leahy’s Dillon Cellars' Pursuit of Excellence. Sep 05, 2023

Show notes

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! In this episode, MJ sits down with the talented and passionate winemaker Marc Leahy from Dillon Cellars. With a background in various industries and a unique journey into the world of wine, Marc brings a wealth of knowledge and experiences to the table. Join us as we dive deep into the story of Dillon Cellars, Marc's winemaking philosophy, and the challenges and triumphs of being an entrepreneur in the wine industry. From their rebellious winemaking approach to their dedication to pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities, this conversation will inspire and captivate. So sit back, relax, and get ready for a fascinating episode filled with wine, stories, and the incredible journey of Dillon Cellars with Marc Leahy.

A Massive THANK YOU to Marc Leahy!!!

This episode’s wines: 2020 Dillon Stigma Chardonnay Freewater Rocks Vineyard

2020 Dillon Cellars WeatherEye Syrah

2020 Dillon Cellars WeatherEye Viognier

To learn more about Dillon Cellars, click the link!

Follow Dillon Cellars on IG

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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.