Beats Vines and Life  By  cover art

Beats Vines and Life

By: Marvin J. Towler
  • Summary

  • MJ Towler aka the Black Wine Guy went from a totally obsessed wine newbie to the world's first-ever African-American fine and rare wine auctioneer in less than 3 years.


    These days, he is a podcaster and journalist who travels the globe, having conversations with the movers, shakers, and disruptors in the worlds of food, wine, music, and more.

    This show pairs his passion for complex, interesting wines with complex, interesting guests. These are deep thinkers and Mavericks talking about their passions, life lessons, and inspirations - while drinking a bottle of something listeners will definitely want to savor for themselves.


    Sit back, listen, learn, and laugh. This is Beats Vines and Life.


    For more information and exclusive content, go to beatsvinesandlife.com

    Follow MJ on IG

    @blackwineguy

    @beatsvinesandlife

    Podcast produced by Marvin J. Towler


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

    Marvin J. Towler
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Episodes
  • Tempo of Terroir: Music, Wine, and Randall Grahm's Legacy.
    May 13 2024

    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!



    ____________________________________________________________

    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


    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.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 45 mins
  • Uncovering David Bowler: Insights on Wine, Music, and Cultural Trends
    May 6 2024

    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


    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.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 39 mins
  • Pouring Passion: Alex Mackh on Wines, Glassware, and Family Traditions
    Apr 30 2024

    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!


    ____________________________________________________________

    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


    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.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 28 mins

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I Really Love This Podcast

I was looking for a Black wine podcast and I’m so glad that I came across MJ! I’ve learned so much and have now invested so much into my wine knowledge. I’ll be listening to these episodes on repeat.

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