The Black Wine Guy Experience

I sat down with Victor Owen Schwartz back in February 2022, and this episode originally aired on my birthday, June 30, 2022. In light of recent developments in the international wine trade, I thought this would be a great time to revisit this episode and reintroduce you to the man who fellow podcast Alum Lyle Fass has described as a true “Mensch."Victor Schwartz, founder of VOS Selections, a small family-run wine importing company in New York, became the unlikely face of legal resistance against Trump's sweeping global tariffs. Schwartz runs the business alongside his daughter, Chloe, and imports wine, sake, and spirits from small-batch producers in countries such as France, Lebanon, and Japan. The Challenge: When Trump announced unprecedented global tariffs on almost all US trading partners, Schwartz described them as an "existential threat" to his small business. Unlike large corporations, small importers like VOS couldn't absorb the financial impact of sudden tariff increases.The Legal Battle: Schwartz partnered with the Liberty Justice Center, a libertarian advocacy group, and agreed to serve as the lead plaintiff in a lawsuit challenging Trump's authority to impose the tariffs. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of VOS and four other small businesses.  VOS Selections: How a small, family-run wine company hit back against Donald Trump’s tariffs | CNN BusinessThe Victory: A three-judge panel at the US Court of International Trade struck down Trump's sweeping global tariffs, finding that Trump overstepped his authority by invoking emergency economic powers to impose tariffs on China, Canada, Mexico, and other US trading partners. Schwartz was cooking a pasta dinner when he received the winning news from his lawyers.The Ongoing Fight: The Trump administration immediately appealed the ruling, and the case could end up in the Supreme Court. An appeals court granted the Trump administration's request to pause the lower court's ruling, meaning the legal battle continues. Schwartz's case represents a David-and-Goliath story where a small wine importer successfully challenged presidential trade policy, with implications for businesses and consumers worldwide.A huge thank you to Victor O. Schwartz!Check out his website: www.vosselections.com ____________________________________________________________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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife

Welcome back to Beats, Vines & Life! In today's episode, host MJ Towler is joined by Bobby Rallo and the legendary Professor Tony Verdoni, known as the "Wine Professor" and a true OG in the world of Italian wines. Tune in for a vibrant, heartfelt, and occasionally hilarious conversation that zigzags from the bustling streets of Jersey City, through the traditions of Italian family kitchens, and right into the heart of the Italian wine scene.Professor Verdoni opens up about his roots as a second-generation Italian-American, the family food traditions that shaped him, and how wine has always been more than just a drink—it's a link to memory, heritage, and community. Alongside stories of Sunday sauce, poorly made homemade vino, and growing up on stickball, the conversation takes a deep dive into the wild evolution of the American wine market, the explosion of Italian varietals, and the art of truly tasting wine.Whether you're a wine geek, a fan of old-school neighborhood stories, or just here for great convo, this episode is loaded with unforgettable wisdom, laughter, and insider knowledge. Pour yourself a glass, settle in, and get ready to enjoy the perfect blend of music, lifestyle, and a deep love for everything Italian. Cheers!A Massive THANK YOU to PROFESSOR ANTHONY VERDONI, & BOBBY RALLO!!!Follow Prof. Verdoni on IG!Follow Birravino on IG!Follow Bobby 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

Welcome back to another special edition of Beats, Vines & Life! In this breaking news episode, MJ Towler is joined by a powerhouse panel of returning friends and innovators in the wine world: Adam Howard Lee of Clarice Wine Company, Moret Brealynn (winemaker and hospitality veteran), and Sasha Verhage, co-creator of the celebrated Downstream project. The trio dives deep into their unique journeys—from Pinot Noir beginnings to forging partnerships in the storied Lirac region of France. You’ll hear how serendipitous late-night conversations, shared bottles, and pure passion inspired their latest venture, Etienne Winery—a project bringing together Old World terroir with New World innovation.Plus, the episode is filled with lively anecdotes about legendary winemakers like Philippe Cambie, behind-the-scenes insights into blending at the highest level, and real talk about the collaborative, adventurous spirit that makes the wine industry sing. If you love a good origin story, crave insider details about Grenache, Pinot Noir, and Rhône varietals, and want to know what it takes to create a transatlantic wine project, this episode is for you. Pour a glass, settle in, and get ready for laughs, wisdom, and plenty of wine-soaked inspiration—cheers!A Massive THANK YOU to MORET BREALYNN, ADAM HOWARD LEE & SASHA VERHAGE!!!For more information about Etienne Winery click the link!!Follow Moret on IG!Follow Adam on IG!Follow Sasha 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! In this lively installment, host MJ Towler is joined by seasoned restaurateur Bobby Rallo as they take us on a whirlwind audio adventure through Northern Italy. Get ready to buckle up for an epic helicopter ride—literally and figuratively—as the guys swap stories about white-knuckle vineyard visits in the Dolomites, sipping Amarone, discovering the secrets behind iconic Italian blends, and exploring the culinary and cultural treasures that define the region. From heartfelt tales of beloved cookbooks and wine gadgets to breaking down the mystique of Valpolicella, Soave, Franciacorta, and Moscato, this episode marries the rhythm of food, wine, and life in a way only Beats Vines & Life can. Whether you’re a longtime Italian wine devotee or just starting to explore, there’s something here for every palate. So grab a glass, settle in, and let’s head north—no passport required!A Massive THANK YOU to BOBBY RALLO!!!For more information about Rallo Hospitality click the link!!Follow Birravino on IG!Follow Bobby 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

Before we dive into today’s episode, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the passing of a dear friend of the pod. John Myers of The Winemakers Pod passed away unexpectedly at his home in Sonoma last week. His passion for food, wine, and life will be missed.Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! This week, we’re hitting the road and broadcasting from New Brunswick, New Jersey—home to rich food, wine, and vibrant community stories. Host MJ Towler teams up with guest host Sam Coturri for a special crossover session, joined by the legendary Restaurant Guys themselves: Mark Pascal and Francis Schott.In this episode, we dig deep into the evolution of restaurant culture, the critical importance of community, and what it takes to build a life and business around food, wine, and good times. Mark and Francis serve up behind-the-scenes tales from running two of New Jersey’s most celebrated restaurants, the art of scoring big-name guests for their long-running podcast, and the challenges and joys of adapting to shifting trends in food, wine, and hospitality—from the explosive early days of podcasting to the modern realities of pot, Ozempic, and changing consumer habits.Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, aspiring podcaster, or just here to soak up a few laughs and life lessons, you’re in for a treat. Tune in for candid stories, plenty of plugs, a few dings for industry legends, and real talk on what it means to build a lasting community—inside and outside the kitchen.A Massive THANK YOU to THE RESTAURANT GUYS & THE WINEMAKERS POD!!! For more information about The Restaurant Guys click the link!For more infdormation about The Winemakers Podcast click the link!Follow The Restaurant Guys on IG!Follow The Winemakers Pod 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

Before we dive into today’s episode, I want to take a moment to acknowledge a significant event that has touched millions around the world. Earlier this week, we learned of the passing of Pope Francis. His leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to faith and service left an indelible mark not only on the Catholic Church but also on the global community. Whether you are a person of faith or simply someone who values the impact of a life dedicated to service, his legacy reminds us of the power of humility, hope, and unity. Our thoughts are with all those mourning this loss. May he rest in peace.Welcome back to Beats, Vines & Life! In this episode, host MJ Towler is joined once again by the charismatic Bobby Rallo—a seasoned restaurateur, chef, and passionate Italian wine critic with deep roots in Italian food and culture. From childhood memories of simmering garlic and baking bread to adventures in some of Italy's most iconic vineyards. Bobby shares stories of his family's culinary legacy, travel tales with his daughter Stella, and reflections on how Italian wine and food are inextricably linked.This lively conversation takes listeners on a tour through the heart of Italian wine country, exploring regions like Marche, Umbria, Lazio, and, of course, Tuscany. Expect a blend of vivid wine tasting notes, behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the restaurant world, and plenty of laughs as MJ and Bobby dig into everything from the rise of Super Tuscans to the quirks of American wine marketing.Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or just looking to expand your palate, you’ll love this journey through Italy’s central vineyards—served with side dishes of history, family, and a slice of real-life food and wine culture. Grab your glass and join the ride!A Massive THANK YOU to BOBBY RALLO!!! For more information about Rallo Hospitality click the link!!Follow Birravino on IG!Follow Bobby 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

On this episode of Beats Vines & Life, host MJ Towler welcomes Eric Titus, general manager and vineyard operations manager at Titus Vineyards. With deep roots in Napa Valley's wine country, Eric shares the fascinating story of his family's legacy—from growing up in Sonoma with his three brothers, to earning his doctorate in biology, and working around the world as a marine biologist and environmental consultant before coming home to join the family business.They reminisce about rural childhood adventures, family traditions, and the evolution of Sonoma and Napa from small towns to world-renowned wine destinations. Eric drops knowledge on the art of winemaking, from the secret splash of Viognier in their Sauvignon Blanc to his mission of reviving Merlot and championing classic varietals like Petite Verdot and Zinfandel.But this isn’t just a podcast about wine—it’s a conversation about life paths, family values, history, and all the unexpected turns that can bring someone back to their roots. Whether you’re a passionate wine lover, a fan of rich storytelling, or just here for the laughs, you’ll appreciate this deep and entertaining dive into the world of wine, Napa Valley culture, and what it means to keep tradition alive in a changing world.Pour yourself a glass as Eric and MJ dig into multi-generational tales of migration, resilience, and entrepreneurship that shaped Titus Vineyards. A Massive THANK YOU to ERIC TITUS!!! For more information about Titus Vineyards click the link!!Follow Titus Vineyards 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever____________________________________________________________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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife

Welcome back to another captivating episode of Beats, Vines & Life. In today's discussion, MJ Towler is joined once again by the seasoned restaurateur, chef, and wine critic Bobby Rallo. In this episode, they embark on a delightful exploration of Italian wine and cuisine, focusing on the rich history and vibrant flavors of the islands of Sicily, Sardinia, and Ischia. Bobby shares his deep-rooted passion for these regions, discussing the unique varietals and the legacy of wine production. Between witty banter and insightful commentary, you'll uncover the magic behind iconic wines like Nero d'Avola, Norello Mascalese, and Vermentino. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, this episode promises to immerse you in the world of Italian grapes and the art of enjoying wine with good company. So, pour yourself a glass and join us as we journey through Italy's wine-rich landscapes. Cheers!A Massive THANK YOU to BOBBY RALLO!!! For more information about Rallo Hospitality click the link!!Follow Birravino on IG!Follow Bobby 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever

Hey podcast listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life, where we explore the fascinating intersections of music, wine, and the stories that connect us. In today's episode, MJ Towler sits down with Jeff Beckmen, the director of sales at Beckmen Vineyards. Jeff takes us on a journey through his transition from Wall Street, where he spent nearly two and a half decades building a successful career, to joining the family vineyard full-time in 2016.We'll dive into Jeff's experiences growing up in Los Angeles, his time on the East Coast for college, and his unexpected pivot into the wine industry. Jeff shares the rich history of Beckmen Vineyards, his family's passion for wine, and how his brother Steve became a self-taught winemaker, pioneering biodynamic practices in the region. Together, they delve into the joys and challenges of crafting remarkable wines that capture the spirit of the Santa Barbara landscape. Grab a glass of your favorite wine, and let's get started!A Massive THANK YOU to STEVE BECKMEN!!! For more information about Beckmen Vineyards click the link!!Follow Beckmen Vineyards 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever