The Black Wine Guy Experience

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 WineJay Krutulis, Owner & Winemaker, Prospice WinesMorgan Joseph, Walla Walla Valley Wine EnthusiastRobert Gomez, Owner & Winemaker, Hoquetus WineKaleigh Brook, Manager, The Thief Fine Wine & Spirits - Advanced Sommelier / WSET DiplomaJason Fox, Owner & Winemaker, Lagana Cellars – for being our wine pourer!

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____________________________________________________________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, 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 1Grenache wines and tons of fun.Purchase your tickets at GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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 & GarnachaTo learn more about GarnachaGrenache, click the link!Follow Wines of Garnacha on IGTo learn more about Vins du Roussillon, click the link!____________________________________________________________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, 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 1Grenache wines and tons of fun.Purchase your tickets at GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest

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 IGTo learn more about Mezcal Mala Idea click the link!Follow Mezcal Mala Idea on IG____________________________________________________________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

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 ViognierTo learn more about Dillon Cellars, click the link!Follow Dillon Cellars on IG____________________________________________________________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

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today, we have a special treat for all you wine lovers out there. Joining us on the show are Beth and Justin Harmon, the dynamic duo behind Argot Wines. In today's episode, we dive deep into the world of Argot Wines and get to know Beth and Justin personally. We'll explore their journey from a successful career in the wine business to taking a leap of faith and running Argot full-time. As we chat with Beth and Justin, we'll discover their passion for marketing and their drive to get their small winery's name out there to new audiences. They'll share their excitement about opening a tasting room and their expansion plans. But it doesn't stop there. Beth and Justin are all about creating unique tasting programs and offering experiences that set them apart from others. They're here to share their insights and expertise on crafting exceptional wines and the journey of turning their winery into a family business. We'll also hear about the serendipitous connection between Beth and Justin, how they met someone from Sonoma County, and how it led them to discover the beauty of the wine country. Their story is full of twists and turns, and we can't wait for them to share it with all of you.So grab a glass of your favorite wine, sit back, and join us on this captivating journey with Beth and Justin Harmon of Argot Wines, only on The Black Wine Guy Experience!A Massive THANK YOU to Beth and Justin Harmon!!!This episode’s wines: 2018 Argot Sonoma County Chardonnay Simpatico Ranch     2021 Argot Bastard Tongue Sonoma County Pinot NoirTo learn more 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 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

Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's episode, titled "Hello Grappa Days Live Pt. 2," we dive deeper into the captivating world of Grappa. Our speaker, a seasoned bartender with over 15 years of experience, takes us on a journey through their remarkable career in the bartending industry. From starting at the only gay bar in Charlottesville, Virginia, to working at dive bars, clubs, Irish bars, beer bars, and wine bars, their expertise shines through their passion for mixology. They have even found a special love for wine along the way. In this episode, we learn how the speaker heard about an exciting competition through Instagram, leading them to explore the world of Grappa. As they share their experience, we discover the intricate process of Grappa production, including the use of high-quality ingredients and the delicate timing of delivering grape pomace. We also delve into the various types of Grappa, from young to aged, showcasing the diverse flavors and aging methods that contribute to its unique character.Our speaker shares their impressions of a Grappa from an esteemed distillery in Italy, highlighting its smooth amber color and elegant notes of vanilla and cocoa. They also discuss their creative cocktail, "I'd I'd studied French as well," paying homage to the blue-collar origins of Grappa while adding a contemporary twist.But the Grappa exploration doesn't stop there. Our speaker takes us on a flavorful journey, pairing Grappa with Thai food and creating a signature lobster cocktail that harmonizes the cool and crisp with the spicy and salty. The culinary adventure continues as we explore the rich history of Grappa, its evolution from a harsh spirit consumed by peasants and soldiers to a refined drink enjoyed by all.Join us as we raise our glasses and continue this immersive experience into the captivating world of Grappa. So sit back, relax, and let The Black Wine Guy Experience be your guide. Cheers!A Massive THANK YOU to Hello Grappa!!!To learn more about Hello Grappa, click the link!Follow Hello Grappa! on IG____________________________________________________________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

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's episode, titled "Grappa Days Live Pt. 1," we dive into the world of grappa, a unique spirit distilled from grapes. As always, we have an incredible lineup of guests and stories lined up for you.First, our host extends his gratitude to a guest and shares the delightful experience of enjoying a drink with rosemary. Ice cubes in a glass add an extra layer of enjoyment for our guest, who also recounts the intriguing flavors of a cocktail featuring tomato water. The stakes are high as competition ensues, and the distinguished location of Red Hook Brooklyn adds a touch of excitement.But that's just the beginning! Our guest takes a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about their father's passion for wine and how it became intertwined with his corporate career. From there, we delve into the speaker's personal journey, from being jobless after graduate school to discovering their true calling while working part-time at a winery in Virginia.The episode takes a turn as our guest reflects on the importance of educating others about grappa and its impact on understanding different styles. Mixologists and bartenders gather to showcase their craft and explore the possibilities of grappa in cocktails. The passion and enthusiasm are palpable as our guest indulges in delicious concoctions and marvels at the creativity on display.But that's not all! We also get a glimpse into a third-generation grappa distiller, where Lisa Tollini and her brothers continue their family's legacy. The excitement builds as the possibility of a grappa and Prosecco cocktail emerges, and encounters with an authentic Italian couple add an extra layer of authenticity.On the other side of the coast, our narrator joins the Hello Grappa Authentic Spirit Bartender Mixologist Contest in Brooklyn, where top professionals compete for the grand prize. With $3,000 at stake, the event aims to showcase grappa's versatility and unique flavors. Our narrator eagerly awaits the start of the competition, ready to immerse himself in the world of cocktails and grappa tastings.As we embark on this thrilling journey, filled with passion, competition, and the celebration of remarkable spirits, stay tuned for part one of "Grappa Days Live" on The Black Wine Guy Experience. Let the adventure begin!A Massive THANK YOU to Hello Grappa!!!To learn more about Hello Grappa, click the link!Follow Hello Grappa! on IG____________________________________________________________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

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's episode, we have a very special guest joining us: the one and only Barnaby Tuttle. Barnaby's journey into the world of wine began with a simple sip of Pinot Noir that captured his curiosity and ignited his passion. From there, he delved deep into the concept of terroir and embarked on a quest to expand his knowledge of wine.Barnaby's relentless pursuit of wine education took him from buying books and attending sales rep presentations to forming friendships with winemakers. As he experienced the limitations of the market, with most wines heavily extracted, he yearned to offer alternatives. This led him to focus on lighter wines that showcased nuance and balance while still appreciating the beauty of bigger wines.But Barnaby's story goes beyond wine. From his unique learning style to his fascination with electricity and plastics (yes, you heard that right), this episode delves into the diverse and intriguing facets of Barnaby's life. We'll hear about his early days washing dishes at a restaurant, his passion for gardening and cooking, and his knack for taking things slow and intentional. We'll also explore Barnaby's experiences during challenging vintages, his adventures in New Zealand, and his journey into the world of winemaking. And let's not forget his insights on food pairings, the role of wine labels, and the importance of passion and creativity in winemaking.So sit back, pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, and join us as we dive into the world of Barnaby Tuttle on this captivating episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience. Cheers!A Massive THANK YOU to Barnaby Tuttle!!!This episode’s wine 2022 Alsea Blanc (50% Pinot Meunier / 50% Pinot Blanc)To learn more about Teutonic Wine Company, click the link!Follow Barnaby on IGFollow Teutonic Wines on IG____________________________________________________________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