Beats Vines and Life

Latest Episodes:

The Wine Path: South African Wines and Peter Andrews' Passion for Diversity Jun 03, 2024

Show notes

Recorded Live at Hospice du Rhone Walla Walla. Welcome to another thrilling episode of "Beats Vines & Life." I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today, we have an inspiring guest who embodies the true spirit of passion and perseverance.

Join me as we dive into the extraordinary journey of Peter Andrews, the founder of Culture Wine Company, specializing in South African wines from independent producers.

From reorganizing a reserve room in retail to mastering the art of winemaking in Italy, Peter's path is filled with rich experiences and heartfelt stories. We'll explore his time harvesting in Piedmont, his MBA pursuit, and his dedication to promoting diversity in the wine industry.

Along the way, we'll also chat about the best pizzas in different cities, the unique flavors of Friulano wines, and the cultural melting pot of Italy's wine regions. Peter's adventures stretch from Charleston to Providence, Tanzania to South Africa, and his unwavering belief in the people behind the wine shines through.

Get ready to be inspired as we uncover the essence of wine, culture, and resilience. Stay tuned for a captivating conversation with Peter Andrews on "Beats Vines & Life."

A Massive THANK YOU to PETER ANDREWS & HOSPICE DU RHONE!!

This episode’s wine: 2021 Luddite Saboteur Red Blend

To learn more about Culture Wine Co. click the link! Use the code beatsvinesandlife15 to receive 15% OFF your order

Follow Culture Wine Co. on IG!

For more information about Hospice du Rhone click the link!

Follow Hospice du Rhone 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

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Thank 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 GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

Prema Korellis and The New Bohemians. Talkin' *Ish and Wine Drinking West Sonoma Coast Style! May 28, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of "Beats Vines & Life" where we delve into the cultural and emotional significance of wine as a product. Join host MJ Towler along with guests Prema Korellis and Ryan Prichard of Three Sticks Wines as they share their unique experiences in the world of wine, discussing everything from rare vintages to the challenges and joys of winemaking.

From exploring the impact of wine critics to the importance of authenticity in the industry, this episode promises to take you on a flavorful journey through the colorful world of wine culture.

So pour yourself a glass, sit back, and enjoy the blend of music, lifestyle, and of course, some exquisite wines on this episode of Beats Vines & Life!

A Massive THANK YOU to PREMA KEROLLIS & RYAN PRICHARD!!!

This episode’s wines: 2023 Three Sticks Casteñada Rosė

2022 Three Sticks Durrell Vineyard Pinot Blanc

2022 Three Sticks Gap’s Crown Pinot Noir

To learn more about Three Sticks Wine, click the link!

Follow Three Sticks Wine on IG!

To learn more about Head High Wines click the link!

Follow Head High Wines 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

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For more information, go to GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

Live from Hospice du Rhone: The Future of Wine in the Northwest: Insights from Todd Alexander May 20, 2024

Show notes

Hey everyone, welcome back to a BONUS episode of Beats Vines & Life! Today, I sit in with Sam Coturri & Brian Casey of The Winemakers Pod as we have an extraordinary guest join us—Todd Alexander, a trailblazing winemaker who decided to shake things up by exploring the Pacific Northwest

Todd shares personal stories about his passion for wine, the changing landscapes of downtown Walla Walla, and his thoughts on the future of the wine industry. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a lover of travel stories, or someone who enjoys hearing about life's unique journeys, this episode has something for everyone.

Stay tuned as Sam, Brian and I chat with Todd Alexander on this captivating episode of Beats Vines & Life!

A Massive THANK YOU to THE WINEMAKERS POD!!!

This episode’s wines: Some Winery Sixteen/600 Shit!

To learn more about Holocene Wines, click the link! Follow Holocene Wines on IG!

To learn more about Force Majeure Vineyards, click the link!Follow Force Majeure on IG!

To learn more about Beatus Wine click the link!Follow Todd on IG!

To learn more about Atelier Freewater click the link! Follow Atelier Freewater on IG!

To learn more about Weathereye Vineyards click the link! Follow Weathereye on IG!

To learn more about Cimento click the link! Follow Cimento 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.

Follow MJ @blackwineguy

Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife

Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Second Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, will be held on November 8th, 2024.

For more information, go to GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

Tempo of Terroir: Music, Wine, and Randall Grahm's Legacy. May 13, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another captivating episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where we blend the rich worlds of music, wine, and personal journeys. Today's episode features the intriguing Randall Grahm, a vintner and trailblazer in the wine industry, renowned for founding Bonny Doon Vineyard and his innovative approaches to winemaking.

In this session, we dive into Randall's colorful background, starting from his youthful days in Los Angeles to his philosophical studies at UC Santa Cruz, and how these experiences shaped his visionary pursuits in the world of wine.

Randall shares heartfelt stories about his family, including the significant influence of his music-loving grandfather and his mother's unexpected role in his business. We'll explore Randall's radical shift from aspiring to produce the great American Pinot Noir to his love affair with Rhône varieties, and his current endeavors with the Language of Yes project in Modesto.

Throughout the episode, Randall reflects on the evolution of LA, his transformative college years, and his profound experiences with wines that eventually led him to a life dedicated to viticulture.

Join us as we uncork the essence of creativity and heritage with Randall Grahm, and perhaps, discover a renewed appreciation for the art and story behind every bottle.

A Massive THANK YOU toRANDALL GRAHM!!!

This episode’s wines: 2023 The Language of Yes “Les Fruits Rouge” Pink Wine

2022 The Language of Yes Grenache Rancho Réal

2022 The Language of Yes “Cuvée Sinso” Red Wine

2022 The Language of Yes Syrah Rancho Réal

To learn more about The Language of Yes, click the link!

Follow The Language of Yes on IG!

To learn more about Popelouchum, 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

For more information, go to GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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Uncovering David Bowler: Insights on Wine, Music, and Cultural Trends May 06, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to this week’s episode of Beats Vines & Life, where we journey into the fascinating intersections of culture, sports, and the wine industry with our guest David Bowler.

This episode takes a deep dive into David's unique career trajectory, transitioning from a budding musician navigating the vibrant punk scenes of New York City to becoming a revered figure in the wine industry.

We'll explore his days at the iconic wine shop Crossroads, his encounters with film and music legends, and ultimately, how he established his own successful wine distribution company.

Along the way, we'll discuss David’s views on various topics, from the influence of wine critic Robert Parker to the cultural shifts within the wine market, and how social media is reshaping the industry.

We’ll also look at the personal side of David, reflecting on his upbringing, early interests in sports, and how personal experiences and relationships have shaped his approach to business and life.

So pour yourself a glass of your favorite vintage, and join us as we uncork the rich stories of David Bowler’s life and insights.

A Massive THANK YOU to DAVID BOWLER!!!

This episode’s wine: 2022 Bodega Sierra de Toloño La Dulu Garnacha de Altura

To learn more about Bowler Wine, click the link!

Follow Bowler 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

For more information, go to GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

Pouring Passion: Alex Mackh on Wines, Glassware, and Family Traditions Apr 30, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to this exciting episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where we're diving into a world of innovation and passion with our guest, Alex Mackh. Alex, the founder of Grassl Glass and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, is here to share his unique journey from the ski slopes of Austria to the world stage of wine glass design.

Discover how Alex's heritage, education, and love for craftsmanship have shaped his approach to creating exquisite mouth-blown glassware that enhances the wine tasting experience. From his early days in a family business to revolutionizing the wine industry with his pioneering glass designs, Alex's story is steeped in tradition yet driven by innovation.

Whether you're a wine aficionado or a lifestyle enthusiast, prepare to be inspired by Alex's dedication to quality, character, and the pursuit of excellence in every pour. Join us as we explore the nuances of wine culture, the art of glassmaking, and the personal journey behind Alex's success. Stay with us on "Beats Vines & Life," where stories and sips come together in perfect harmony.

A Massive THANK YOU to ALEX MACKH!!!

This episode’s wines: Not available in the US…

To learn more about Grassl Glass, click the link!

Follow Grassl Glass 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

For more information, go to GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

The Craft of Cultivating Legacy: Tegan Passalaqua is Unveiling the Rich History of California Vineyards Apr 22, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another captivating episode of Beats Vines & Life, where the rhythm of music meets the swirl of the glass. I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have the incredible Tegan Passalaqua, winemaker for Turley Wine Cellars and owner of Kirschenmann Vineyard, joining us to uncork a vintage conversation.

In this episode, we'll venture through the fertile grounds of Lodi, California, and beyond, sipping the rich stories that lie within each vineyard. Tegan brings her deep-rooted passion for old vine varietals and forgotten classics to the table, along with tales of a landscape changing under the pressure of progress and perception. We'll explore the delicate dance of sustainable winemaking, the challenges faced by the industry, and the push for transparency and honesty in every bottle.

Get ready to learn about the nuances that make a red table wine, the impact of sand and clay on viticulture, and how a conversation and a taste of Lodi changed Tegan's path forever. We'll also touch on family histories intertwined with the land, the dynamics of local communities, and the importance of planning for the future.

Pour yourself a glass of your favorite blend, sit back, and let's dive into the life and times of Tegan Passalaqua, right here on Beats Vines & Life.

A Massive THANK YOU to TEGAN PASSALAQUA!!!

This episode’s wines: 2021 Sanlands Kirschenmann Cinsault

2021 Sandlands Red Table Wine

To learn more about Sandlands Vineyards, click the link!

Follow Tegan on IG!

To learn more about Turley Wine Cellars, click the link!

Follow Turley Wine 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

For more information, go to GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

Pouring Over Pages: Lettie Teague's Life in Wine and Wordz. Apr 17, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to "Beats Vines & Life," where the melodies of music, the enchantment of wine, and the narratives of life converge. I'm your host, MJ Towler. Today, we uncork the essence of wisdom and wine with a very special guest: Lettie Teague, the renowned wine columnist for the Wall Street Journal and multi-time James Beard Award winner. This episode delves deep into Lettie's intriguing journey from a liquor store to the lustrous halls of wine-writing prominence. We get personal as Lettie reminisces about her early years working in her parents’ shop and the invaluable lessons learned under the mentorship of wine maven Roberta Morell. Despite a rocky start in wine wholesale, Lettie's admiration for the industry's assertive salespeople set the tone for a storied career. Our conversation turns the pages of the downward spiral magazines faced during the 2008 economic downturn, highlighting Lettie’s lament on content diversity, all while she honors the craft of journalists with a touching anecdote about her path to the Wall Street Journal. Lettie gives us a peek into her Rolodex of celebrity wine projects and the award-winning "Educating Peter" series, sprinkled with lighthearted banter about Napa extravagances and columnist budgets. We move on to the challenges and silver linings in the wine industry, from millennial accessibility to the joy of sharing a bottle regardless of prestige. Lettie shares her childhood memories, her Midwestern roots flavored with Gallo pink chablis, and her grandmother's influence on her writing dreams. We also throw in a dash about our fondest dining traditions and Coach Popovich’s unique connection to the wine world. Touching on the digital age's transformation of content consumption and the importance of informed curiosity, Lettie delivers anecdotes with a bold, robust finish – true to a fine wine’s character. Whether you're a wine aficionado or someone intrigued by the stories behind the label, there’s a pour of knowledge for you in this intimate tete-a-tete with Lettie Teague.Get ready to savor the blend of life experiences and fine wine on today's episode of "Beats Vines & Life." Cheers!

A Massive THANK YOU to LETTIE TEAGUE!!!

To learn more about Lettie, click the link!

Follow Lettie 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

For more information, go to GrenacheFest

Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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

From Minnesota to The Mosel: Jenna Fields' Story of Riesling and Resilience. Apr 08, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life, the podcast where melodies meet Merlot, and the rhythms of life blend with the bouquet of the vine. In today's special pour, we raise our glasses to the indomitable spirit of Jenna Fields, the maven of German wine, who turned a flood of challenges into a vintage of success.

From her unassuming beginnings in Eagan, Minnesota, to the aromatic vineyards of Germany's Ahr Valley, Jenna's journey is as complex and compelling as the Pinot Noir we'll be sipping on today with our host, MJ Towler. We'll uncork the story of how a business card and a fateful decision not to work at Target, but to dive headfirst into the intricate German wine market, paved the path for Jenna's remarkable ascent.

Join us as we swirl through her tales of resilience in the aftermath of a natural disaster that ravaged the vineyards she so dearly champions. With each sip, we'll explore Jenna's evolution from nanny to president and founder of a company that today represents over two dozen top wineries, painting the canvas of the American wine scene with German hues.

MJ and Jenna will also engage in a pairing as unique as a Riesling with Thai cuisine, delighting us with stories of Michelin star ambitions, the challenges of transportation logistics, and the warmth of familial bonds in this intoxicating world of wines.

So find your favorite spot, pour yourself a glass, and let's delve into Jenna Fields' rich life and passionate pursuits. This episode is for those who love the stories behind the labels and the people who pour their hearts into every bottle. Uncork and tune in to the symphony of Beats Vines & Life.

A Massive THANK YOU to JENNA FIELDS!!!

This episode’s wines: 2015 Meyer-Näkel Pfarrwingert Spätburgunder Ahr

To learn more about The German Wine Collection, click the link!

Follow The German Wine Collection 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

beatsvinesandlife.com

Follow MJ @blackwineguy

Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife

For more information, go to GrenacheFest

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

From Vines to Vinyl: Aaron Jackson’s Life in Notes and Tannins Apr 08, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where the rhythm of music meets the richness of wine culture. Today's episode features a special and insightful conversation with the innovative winemaker, Aaron Jackson.

Join us as we uncork the story behind his unique wine blend, “The Trespasser” which started in 2010, and his journey from a passionate youth to an established name in the wine industry.

Aaron shares his excitement for the ever-evolving winemaking process, the highs, the challenges, and the way climate change is stirring the pot. He invites us all for a toast and a trip down to their winery in Tin City, Paso, while relishing the deep, enduring connection between wine and its connoisseurs.

Host MJ Towler dives into Aaron's technique, philosophy, and passionate drive that led him to specialize in the Petite Sirah variety. Alongside discussions on blending artistry and winery challenges of today, Aaron's tale serves as a beacon for aspiring young entrepreneurs in the industry.

So pour yourself a glass, settle in, and let the blend of conversation and discovery flow. This is "Beats Vines & Life," and we're about to taste the stories that make wines—and life—truly extraordinary.

A Massive THANK YOU to AARON JACKSON!!!

This episode’s wines: 2021 Aequorea Pinot Noir San Luis Obispo

2021 Aaron Wines “The Trespasser”

2021 Aaron Wines Petite Sirah

To learn more about Aaron Wines, click the link!

Follow Aaron Wines 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.