The Black Wine Guy Experience

Welcome to another enriching episode of "Beats Vines & Life." I'm your host, MJ Towler. Today, we dive deep into the crossroads of winemaking, sustainability, and personal journey with John Olney, the Chief Operating Officer and head winemaker at Ridge Vineyards.In this episode, we explore John Olney's remarkable path in the wine industry. Along the way, we'll uncover the influence of legendary figures like Paul Draper and Kermit Lynch on his career, delve into Ridge's rich history and sustainable practices, and discuss the evolution of California wines from Zinfandel to Cabernet Sauvignon.John also shares his deep appreciation for Sonoma's diverse wine culture, the complexities of managing high-quality wine production, and a few light-hearted anecdotes that reflect the nuances of his journey.Grab a glass of your favorite wine and join us as we unravel the stories and philosophies that shape today's vibrant wine landscape. Cheers!---A Massive THANK YOU to JOHN OLNEY and RIDGE VINEYARDS!!! For more information about Ridge Vineyards click the link!!Follow Ridge 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, 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

Welcome back to another episode of "Beats, Vines & Life"! This time, we have the pleasure of hosting Morgan Twain-Peterson, a Master of Wine and co-owner of Bedrock Wine Co. Join us as we delve into Morgan's multifaceted journey—from his love for trail running, his college days at Vassar, and intriguing familial ties to the Manhattan Project to the evolution of Bedrock Wine Co. Learn how his pastimes and academic ventures influenced his winemaking career, and how Bedrock turned from a small startup into an industry staple.In this episode, we also explore Morgan’s unique perspectives on sustainable agriculture, non-tillage practices, and his aspirations for regenerative organic farming. We'll discuss the challenges and triumphs faced in producing world-class wines with a strong focus on preserving the heritage of historic vineyards.Moreover, Morgan shares fascinating anecdotes from his personal and professional life, including his schooling on the East Coast, experiences at wineries around the globe, and his passionate commitment to wine education.Get ready for engaging conversations on the art of winemaking, the significance of old vine Zinfandel, and a playful wine game segment we call "Slap, Lick, Fondle." Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about this rich tapestry of stories, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your favorite glass and join MJ Towler and Morgan Twain Peterson as we explore the vibrant world of wine, lifestyle, and everything in between!---A Massive THANK YOU to MORGAN TWAIN-PETERSON!!! For more information about Bedrock Wine Co. click the link!!Follow Bedrock Wines on IG!Follow Morgan 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, 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where we dive deep into the rhythms of winemaking, the melodies of life, and everything in between. I’m your host, MJ Towler, and today, we have a remarkable guest who encapsulates the spirit of Napa Valley’s wine legacy.Today, we sit down with Bruce Neyers, a pioneer who has combined the best Old World wine traditions with California's dynamic winemaking landscape. Bruce's journey takes us from his roots in Wilmington, Delaware, to the expansive vineyards of Napa Valley. We’ll explore Bruce's challenges and triumphs—from custom crush operations at Rombauer Vineyards to establishing his own thriving winery with ingenuity and perseverance. We'll uncover his insightful philosophy on winemaking, honoring the Old World while embracing New World innovation, and delve into his hands-on approach, including the charming tradition of foot-crushing grapes like Carignan.We'll also touch on Bruce's expansive career, from a pivotal harvest in Germany’s Nahe region to his influential role with Kermit Lynch's renowned wine portfolio. Join us as Bruce shares stories of family, friendships, and the serendipitous moments that shaped Neyers Vineyards’ legacy—culminating in his daughter Lizzie’s recent involvement and a promising partnership with the Trinchero family as Bruce plans a well-deserved retirement.So pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, settle in, and let's embark on this flavorful journey with Bruce Neyers. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this one!---A Massive THANK YOU to BRUCE & BARBARA NEYERS!!! Fore more information about Neyers Vineyards, click the link!!Follow Neyers 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, 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

Welcome to another exciting episode of "Beats Vines & Life." Today, we're diving deep into the world of wine with our special guest, the multifaceted Artie Johnson. In this candid conversation, Artie shares his incredible journey from working luxurious posts at renowned places like the Versace Mansion and Nobu to becoming a celebrated winemaker.Join us as we explore the intricacies of European and American wine production, the economic challenges faced by the industry, and the efforts required to maintain high-quality standards. We’ll also touch upon Artie’s sports background and his transition to the restaurant business, illustrating how resilience and adaptability have shaped his career. Prepare for a deep dive into topics ranging from the importance of innovation in winemaking to personal anecdotes that highlight the essence of balancing professional and family life. We'll also discuss Artie's entrepreneurial spirit, the strategic move to Napa, and the reality of chasing passion amid uncertainties.Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone who appreciates a well-rounded conversation, this episode is packed with insights and humor that blend professional wine talk with our guest's vibrant storytelling. Grab your favorite glass of vino and get ready to be inspired by the authentic journey of Artie Johnson on "Beats Vines & Life." 🍷✨---A Massive THANK YOU to ARTIE JOHNSONI!!! Follow Le Artishasic, on IG!Follow Artie 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, 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

Welcome to another exciting episode of Beats Vines & Life! In today's episode, our host, MJ Towler, sits down to have an inspiring conversation with the multifaceted wine industry expert, Jeremy Hart. Known for his diverse experiences and significant contributions to the wine world, Jeremy has emceed the TexSomM conference for six years, co-founded the innovative company Inknology, and helped over 50 brands gain recognition. He also spearheaded the acclaimed Legit wine brand, which was ranked number 26 in the 2019 Wine Spectator’s Top 100, and recently partnered with Somm.ai to offer new revenue opportunities for the beverage community.Join us as we delve into Jeremy's remarkable journey from his early days as a fry cook in Houston to a leading figure in the wine industry. We'll explore his recent projects like Explicit Content, his unique approach to wine production, and his heartfelt advocacy for self-reliance and entrepreneurship in the beverage business. You'll also hear personal anecdotes, industry insights, and candid discussions about the wine world's current state and future potential. Stay tuned for an engaging and educational deep dive into wine, entrepreneurship, and life lessons from one of the industry's most dynamic personalities!---A Massive THANK YOU to JEREMY HARTI!!! This episode in-studio wine: 2021 EXPLICIT CONTENT CDP RougeFor more information about Inknowology, click here!Follow Inknowology on IG!Follow Explicit Content on IG!For more information about Somm.ai click the link!Follow Somm.ai 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, 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

Welcome back to another riveting episode of **Beats Vines & Life**, your go-to podcast where we blend the soulful notes of music, the rich flavors of the finest wines, and the tapestry of life stories. I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today, we're diving into the inspiring journey of Bart Hansen, a seasoned winemaker with over three decades in the industry. From humble beginnings at Kenwood Vineyards to pioneering biodynamic practices at Benziger Family Winery, Bart's story is one of dedication, innovation, and a deep-rooted passion for winemaking. We'll delve into his early challenges, including missing out on opportunities due to financial constraints, and how he turned these setbacks into stepping stones.Get ready to hear about biodynamic moon cycles and the meticulous practices that set Bart apart in the wine world. We’ll also have some fun with "Slap, Lick, Fondle" and explore Bart’s excitement for future vintages and his new tasting room project. Plus, we’ll touch on some fascinating industry reflections and personal anecdotes that showcase the heart behind the wines.And don't miss out on our special announcements and a nostalgic dive into Thanksgiving memories and homemade wines. So, pour yourself a glass, sit back, and join us for an intimate and enlightening conversation filled with wisdom, laughter, and, of course, great wine. ---A Massive THANK YOU to BART HANSENI!!! This episode wines: 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Beltane Ranch Sonoma Valley2020 Old Vine Zinfandel Rancho Agua Caliente Vineyard Sonoma Valley 2019 Valeria Rossi Ranch 68% Grenache 32% Mourvèdre Sonoma Valley2020 Malbec Lazy Dog Vineyard Sonoma ValleyFor more information about Dane Cellars click the link!Follow Dane Cellars on IG!Listen to The Winemakers Pod here!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, GrenacheFest. The Second Annual Grenache Festival in Walla Walla, Washington, will be held on November 8th, 2024. It will feature a seated comparative seminar, live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun.For more information, go to GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG!

Welcome back to another captivating episode of Beats, Vines & Life! I'm your host, MJ Towler. Today, we've got an incredible story to tell with our special guest, Justin Harmon, winemaker extraordinaire from Sonoma County and Napa Valley. In this episode, we dive into the heart of wine culture and reveal what it takes to start and run a first-generation family winery with no external funding. Justin reflects on a significant moment that sparked his passion for wine at a wedding and shares the trials and triumphs of creating his acclaimed wines, from Pinot Noir to Cabernet Sauvignon, all made with love and dedication. We explore the intricate details of wine production, the effects of extreme heat on vineyards, and the unique terroir of regions like Bennett Valley and Sonoma Mountain.But it's not just about the wine. We get personal as Justin opens up about the challenges of non-rehearsed, raw, and authentic social media engagement, his deep dive into wine history and culture, and how his chemistry background paved the way for his winemaking journey. Plus, we'll hear anecdotes about unexpected fans, wine-tasting adventures, and the meaningful names behind wines like "Rosetta" and "Babel." And if you're a fan of Spanish and Portuguese wines, you're in for a treat—we discuss their exceptional value and quality. With humor, banter, and a sprinkle of music references, this conversation is as multifaceted as the wines themselves. So grab a glass, sit back, and enjoy an inspiring journey through winemaking with us on Beats, Vines & Life. Cheers!---A Massive THANK YOU to JUSTIN AND BETH HARMONI!!! This episode in-studio wines: Argot 2022 “Bastard Tongue” Sonoma County Pinot NoirArgot 2021 “Babel” Napa Valley Cabernet SauvignonArgot 2021 “Rosetta” Sonoma County SyrahFor more information about Argot Wines click the link!Follow Argot Wines 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, 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

Welcome back to another insightful episode of "Beats Vines & Life!" This week, we're diving deep into the world of winemaking, marketing, and the evolving landscape of the wine industry with our special guests, Barbara Gorder and Brian Baker.We'll discuss niche market strategies, the critical importance of finding and bonding with your customer tribe, and the essential role of marketing in an industry often stuck in traditional methods. Barbara and Brian will share their vast expertise, from innovative wine promotions like Stella Rosa's Pineapple Chili to the shifting perceptions of sweeter wines and Rieslings. We also shine a light on the impactful "Free the Grapes" movement, aiming to open up wine shipping laws across all states, and the fascinating historical context behind America's complex wine distribution systems. Finally, expect insights about modern marketing tactics, the competition from cannabis and craft spirits, and the generational shift impacting wine sales.Tune in for an episode packed with valuable lessons, from creating scarcity and authentic advertising to leveraging storytelling and embracing innovative outreach strategies. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a marketing professional, this episode is a treasure trove of information you don't want to miss. Let’s raise a glass and dive in!---A Massive THANK YOU to BARBARA GORDER & BRIAN BAKERI!!! For more information about Project Wine: Lifting All Boats click the link!Brian BakerCultivar MarketingWebsite: https://cultivarmarketing.com/Email: brian@cultivarmarketing.comPhone: (707) 363-5931 Barbara GorderUndisclosed LocationWebsite: www.unlo.comEmail:Barbara.gorder@unlo.comPhone: 312.972.2833 (PT) Direct to Consumer Wine SymposiumJoin us for the best DTC Wine education and networking in the business.https://dtcwinesymposium.com/January 21-23Hyatt Regency Monterey, CAEarly Bird Tickets on Sale now until November 1, 2024____________________________________________________________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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest