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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Welcome back to another episode of "Beats Vines & Life" with your host MJ Towler. Today, we're honored to have the legendary winemaker Donald Patz joining us. From his early days as a wine salesman in Oregon to establishing the renowned Patz and Hall winery in California, Donald has experienced the wine industry's evolution firsthand.  After parting ways with his former business for personal and estate planning reasons, he's now pioneering new ventures like Maritana and Secret Door,...

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,...

Welcome 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...

Welcome back to another inspiring episode of Beats Vines & Life. Today, our host MJ Towler sits down with Antonio Arias, a chemical-engineer-turned-wine-entrepreneur who has made his mark in the Finger Lakes wine region. Antonio shares his journey from growing up in a family of engineers in Mexico to discovering his passion for wine in Australia, and eventually founding Once, a unique wine tasting bar and shop in the heart of the Finger Lakes.  He discusses his vision for creating an...

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...

Welcome 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...

Welcome 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,...

Welcome 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...

Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! Today, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Matt Naumann, a seasoned pro in the wine industry. Matt's journey has taken him from the vineyards of Lodi to owning his own project, Newfound Wines.  He's also played a pivotal role in expanding Wade Cellars, helmed by NBA icon Dwayne Wade, and has gathered invaluable insights from his experiences across the globe.  In this episode, we'll delve into Matt's fascinating career—from the...

Welcome back, wine lovers! This is your host MJ Towler, and you’re tuned into another delectable episode of Beats Vines & Life. Today, we’re diving into the heart of Finger Lakes Wine Country with a very special guest, Alex Jankowski, the VP of Brand Development for Wagner Vineyards and the marketing chair of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.  In this episode, we explore the collaborative spirit that thrives in the wine industry, the booming growth of wineries in the Finger Lakes, and the...

Welcome back, everyone, to another exciting episode of Beats, Vines & Life. I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have a truly inspiring guest joining us – Jordan Harris, the phenomenal winemaker at Heron Hill Winery in the Finger Lakes.  Jordan's journey into the world of wine is nothing short of fascinating. From initially avoiding chemistry to winning a prestigious sommelier competition, and from Canada to the cool climate of Virginia and now the Finger Lakes, his story is a testament...

Welcome back to another exciting episode of "Beats Vines & Life"! Today, we have the pleasure of diving deep into the fascinating journey of Jeb Dunnuck, a renowned wine critic who transitioned from an aerospace engineering career to become one of the most respected voices in the wine industry.  Our host MJ Towler sits down with Jeb to discuss his multifaceted career path, from working at leading companies like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace to the grueling, solitary life of a...

Welcome to another exciting episode of "Beats Vines & Life"! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have an extraordinary guest, the multi-talented Billy Bollotino. Billy, known for his remarkable 25-year career with Conan O'Brien, takes us on a compelling journey through the vibrant music and nightlife of downtown New York, his days at Fordham University, and his early foray into television with "Rocker Room." We'll dive deep into the gig economy in the entertainment industry, featuring...

Welcome to another exciting bonus episode of Beats Vines & Life! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we're broadcasting live from the vibrant Vinexpo in New York City. We're diving into the world of wine and spirits with a stellar lineup of guests, all shining lights in the industry. Join us as we chat with Sylvain Faureau, the Director of Marketing & Communications for Vineposium, about organizing global business-to-business events that connect buyers and producers. We'll explore...

Welcome to Beats Vines & Life! Today we are revisiting our milestone 50th episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, where I sat down with none other than former NBA star, podcasting powerhouse, NBA Analyst and new head coach of the Los Angeles Laker sJJ Redick! Welcome to Beats Vines & Life! Today we are revisiting our milestone 50th episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, where I sat down with none other than former NBA star, podcasting powerhouse, NBA Analyst and new head coach of...

Welcome back to "Beats, Vines & Life!" In this episode we have a special conversation with Fanny Spironelli, the founder of Le Alabouche. Together with our host, MJ Towler, we'll delve into the intricacies of the upcoming VINEXposium event.  From its comprehensive planning process to its global representation, we'll explore how this wine and spirits trade show has evolved since its Bordeaux roots in the 80s and 90s, and its impact on the industry. We'll touch on everything from industry...

Recorded Live at Hospice du Rhone Walla Walla. Welcome back to another exciting episode of Beats Vines & Life! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have a special treat for you. We're diving deep into the world of wine, sports, and the incredible journey of our distinguished guest, former NFL star turned vintner, Sidney Rice. In this episode, we explore the powerful lessons learned from others, the fascinating beginnings of my wine journey in Minnesota, and the unique challenges and...