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The Black Wine Guy Experience
Uncorking Heritage and Innovation with Meaghan Frank at Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery
Welcome back, Mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and all the wine drinkers! In today's episode of "Beats Vines & Life," we have a fascinating conversation with Meaghan Frank, the fourth-generation trailblazer behind Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery in the stunning Finger Lakes region.
Inspired by her enriching experiences in Australia's advanced wine industry, Meaghan has revolutionized the wine tourism scene back home with her unique "1886 wine experience."
Join us as she delves into the rich history of her family's winery, touches on the challenges and rewards of working closely with her father, and shares memorable moments from her wine journey, including a special bottle at the Waldorf Astoria. We also explore her ventures into growing the ancient Rkatsiteli grape and her passion for making traditional method sparkling wines.
Get ready to be inspired by Meaghan's story of legacy, innovation, and the universal love for wine. Don't forget to check the show notes for all the ways you can connect with Meaghan and her remarkable winery. Let's get started!
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A Massive THANK YOU to MEAGHAN FRANKI!!!
For more information about Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery click the link!
Follow Dr. Frank 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
Follow MJ @blackwineguy
Follow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife
Thank you to our sponsor, Finger Lakes Wine Country. The following episodes are brought to you by Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York State’s world-class wine destination producing the most award-winning wines in the Northeast, just a short drive away.
For more information about Finger Lakes Wine Country click the link
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170. Unfiltered and Unscripted: Tasting The New Argot Releases with Justin Harmon
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01:28:32||Season 7, Ep. 167Welcome to another exciting episode of "Beats Vines & Life" with your host, MJ Towler. Today, we're thrilled to bring you an insightful conversation with Jeff Bundschu, the 6th generation California vintner from the iconic Gundlach Bundschu winery. Jeff and MJ dive deep into the thriving world of wine, exploring how storytelling and personal experiences are shaping the industry. They also delve into the trend of premiumization and the importance of engaging younger audiences to keep wine culture vibrant.In this episode, you'll hear Jeff reminiscing about his upbringing in Sonoma, his transformative years at USC, and his globetrotting adventures that ignited his passion for winemaking. From organizing music events at the winery to championing natural and orange wines, Jeff shares his innovative approach to making wine fun and accessible.Tune in to catch their lively discussion on the evolving wine market, the challenges faced by smaller producers, and the dynamic intersection of music, lifestyle, and wine. Plus, MJ and Jeff bond over their love for hip-hop, offering a unique blend of beats and vines that you won't want to miss. ---A Massive THANK YOU to JEFF BUNDSCHUI!!! For more information about Gundlach Bundschu Winery click the link!Follow Gundlach Bundschu on IG!Follow Jeff 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 GrenacheFestEngineering Meets Oenology: How Antonio Arias is Showcasing The Finger Lakes Finest at ONCE
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35:36||Season 7Welcome back, listeners, to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! Today we have an extraordinary guest joining us—Hans Peter Weis, the owner and winemaker of Weis Vineyards in the beautiful Finger Lakes region. Peter's journey from growing up in a sixth-generation winemaking family in Mosel, Germany, to establishing a thriving vineyard here in New York is nothing short of inspiring.In this episode, we dive deep into Peter's fascinating story, from overcoming financial challenges and the importance of relationships with local grape growers, to achieving success alongside his wife Ashley. With over 30 different SKUs, including award-winning Rieslings, sparkling wines, and unique dessert wines, Peter's commitment to quality and innovation has truly set Weis Vineyards apart.We'll explore the incredible hard work and dedication it takes to build a successful wine business, the importance of labeling for sweetness levels, and exciting future projects like a new distillery. Plus, hear about Peter's special wine made for his first-born son and the story behind their famed 183 wine. And of course, we couldn't resist discussing the unique and picturesque Finger Lakes region.Join us for an engaging conversation filled with insights, laughter, and of course, some delicious wine talk. So grab a glass, sit back, and let's get into it. ---A Massive THANK YOU to PETER WEIS!!! For more information about Weis Vineyards click the link!Follow Weis 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, Finger Lakes Wine Country. The following episodes are brought to you by Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York State’s world-class wine destination producing the most award-winning wines in the Northeast, just a short drive away.For more information about Finger Lakes Wine Country click the linkAmazing Finger Lakes Wines: Edward Miller Talks Hybrids and Sustainability
37:30||Season 7Welcome back to another episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where we dive into the worlds of food, wine, music, and more. I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have a special treat for all you wine enthusiasts out there. Joining us is Edward Miller, the talented winemaker behind Glenora Wine Cellars, one of the oldest wineries on Seneca Lake in the picturesque Finger Lakes region.Edward brings a wealth of experience, having worked in renowned wine regions like Sonoma, Napa, New Zealand, and Western Australia before settling in the Finger Lakes. In this episode, we explore the diverse range of wines produced at Glenora, from dry viniferous and sweet native varieties to innovative low-alcohol fruit wines. We also delve into the importance of sustainability in winemaking and the renaissance of hybrid grapes, which are making a comeback in a more elevated style.Edward shares fascinating stories about his journey into the wine industry, including his studies in classical history and Latin, his transformative expat experience in Italy, and his dedication to cool climate wines that are lively and delicate. We'll also hear about some memorable bottles he's encountered, like Nebbiolos from Italy and Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, and discuss the unique challenges and joys of making wine in the Finger Lakes.And there's more! Glenora offers a complete immersive experience with an inn, restaurant, tasting room, winery, and a sparkling wine program. You won't want to miss Edward's insights on aging wines and a special 1981 Blanc de Blanc from their library.Grab your favorite glass of wine, sit back, and join us for an enriching conversation that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation in the world of winemaking. Don't forget to subscribe and check out Glenora Wine Cellars' website and social media to plan your visit. Cheers!---A Massive THANK YOU to EDWARD MILLER!!! For more information about Glenora Wine Cellars click the link!Follow Glenora 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, Finger Lakes Wine Country. The following episodes are brought to you by Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York State’s world-class wine destination producing the most award-winning wines in the Northeast, just a short drive away.For more information about Finger Lakes Wine Country click the linkThe Journey of Lakewood Vineyards: From Fruit Farms to Fine Wines
36:22||Season 7Welcome to another delightful episode of "Beats Vines & Life!" I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we're diving deep into the world of winemaking with our special guest, Abby Stamp Wilkins, co-owner and winemaker at Lakewood Vineyards. In this episode, Abby shares her fascinating journey through different wine regions— from the lush landscapes of New Zealand to the sun-soaked vineyards of Florida and the cool, aromatic corridors of Oregon. We'll explore Abby's adventures and techniques in crafting Pinot Noir using 100% French oak barrels, delve into the family legacy that shaped Lakewood Vineyards, and hear the inspiring story of how Abby's great-grandfather transitioned from apple farming to grape growing in the Finger Lakes. Abby reveals the challenges and rewards of running a family-owned winery, discusses their signature Rieslings, and talks about the exciting future of sparkling wines in the region.Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just curious about the wine industry, Abby's insights and anecdotes—from childhood wine tastings to the pressing importance of climate change—provide a rich blend of knowledge and passion. So pour yourself a glass, sit back, and join us for an invigorating conversation that celebrates the art, science, and soul of winemaking!---A Massive THANK YOU to ABBY STAMP WILKINS!!! For more information about Lakewood Vineyards click the link!Follow Lakewood Vineyards on IG!Email Abby! abby@lakewoodvineyards.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 @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, Finger Lakes Wine Country. The following episodes are brought to you by Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York State’s world-class wine destination producing the most award-winning wines in the Northeast, just a short drive away.For more information about Finger Lakes Wine Country click the link