Best Winecountry Podcasts (2024)

1
The Craft of Cultivating Legacy: Tegan Passalaqua is Unveiling the Rich History of California Vineyards 1:51:30

3d ago1:51:30

1:51:30

Welcome to another captivating episode of Beats Vines & Life, where the rhythm of music meets the swirl of the glass. I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have the incredible Tegan Passalaqua, winemaker for Turley Wine Cellars and owner of Kirschenmann Vineyard, joining us to uncork a vintage conversation. In this episode, we'll venture through t…

1
Pouring Over Pages: Lettie Teague's Life in Wine and Wordz. 1:34:54

1d ago1:34:54

1:34:54

Welcome back to "Beats Vines & Life," where the melodies of music, the enchantment of wine, and the narratives of life converge. I'm your host, MJ Towler. Today, we uncork the essence of wisdom and wine with a very special guest: Lettie Teague, the renowned wine columnist for the Wall Street Journal and multi-time James Beard Award winner. This epi…

1
From Minnesota to The Mosel: Jenna Fields' Story of Riesling and Resilience. 1:38:39

10d ago1:38:39

1:38:39

Welcome back to another episode of Beats Vines & Life, the podcast where melodies meet Merlot, and the rhythms of life blend with the bouquet of the vine. In today's special pour, we raise our glasses to the indomitable spirit of Jenna Fields, the maven of German wine, who turned a flood of challenges into a vintage of success. From her unassuming …

1
From Vines to Vinyl: Aaron Jackson’s Life in Notes and Tannins 1:26:23

10d ago1:26:23

1:26:23

Welcome to another episode of "Beats Vines & Life," where the rhythm of music meets the richness of wine culture. Today's episode features a special and insightful conversation with the innovative winemaker, Aaron Jackson. Join us as we uncork the story behind his unique wine blend, “The Trespasser” which started in 2010, and his journey from a pas…

1
Dane Curley: The Artist Shaping California's Wine Scene One Label at a Time. 1:23:49

16d ago1:23:49

1:23:49

Welcome to "Beats, Vines, & Life," the intersection where rhythm meets the grape and individual stories blend into the rich tapestry of life. I'm your host, MJ Towler, coaxing the culture from the creatives and the passion from the producers all over a shared bottle of the finest vintages. In today's episode, we're uncorking a special blend of conv…

1
Patrick Davis, SIP - Songwriters in Paradise 2024 19:51

12d ago19:51

19:51

Patrick Davis is returning to Northern California for SIP - Songwriters in Paradise 2024. You may have caught him on my podcast last year, and it’s a real pleasure to catch up with him again to chat about Songwriters in Paradise 2024 in Napa, very soon April 18th-21st, then Healdsburg, Sonoma County July 23rd – 28 at special wineries in each region…

1
Sipping on Sustainability: Family, Innovation, and the Quest for Quality Wines at Jada Vineyards. 1:00:07

17d ago1:00:07

1:00:07

Hello, wine enthusiasts, and welcome back to another stirring episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience. Today's show takes us into the heart of Paso Robles as we swirl, sip, and savor the story of Jada Vineyards. Joining us are none other than the dynamic duo of the vineyard, General Manager Josh Messina and head winemaker Nate Hall. They share wit…

1
National Women in Wine Day - Marimar Torres of Marimar Estates 32:44

23d ago32:44

32:44

This month we celebrated Women’s History, International Women’s Day was March 8th, and this past Monday, the 25th, it was National Women in Wine Day in the U.S. So, appropriately, my guest for this episode is an accomplished woman in wine, who also happens to be an international woman. Marimar Torres is a member of Familia Torres, a historic winema…

1
From Trader Joe's to Tasting Room: Exploring the Craft of Winemaking with McPrice Myers 1:38:41

1M ago1:38:41

1:38:41

Welcome back to another episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today's episode is about an incredible journey from the ball fields of LA to the vineyards of Santa Barbara. Joining us is none other than Mac Myers, a maverick in the wine world known for creating wines of exceptional balance and value. In this episode,…

1
Unleashing the Gypsy Spirit: Vailia From’s Journey into the World of Winemaking 1:26:40

1M ago1:26:40

1:26:40

Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we're pouring a full-bodied episode with an extraordinary guest, Vailia From, a trailblazing winemaker who has carved her own path in the wine industry with Desparada Wines. Join us as we uncork Vailia's remarkable journey—from her early days working in steakhouses i…

1
Paso Vibes: Justin Smith Talks Wine, Life, and The Perfect Blend 1:37:36

2M ago1:37:36

1:37:36

Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we're pouring into an intoxicating episode featuring the extraordinary Justin Smith. Get ready to uncork the story of a winemaker who has cultivated a legacy from the roots of a familial passion and a dedication to the art of blending. In this episode, Ep. 149, we'll…

1
Delving Deep into Details with Joe Nielsen of Ram’s Gate Winery 32:31

2M ago32:31

32:31

In my 11 years in and around the wine industry, people have often asked me about barrels, yet related to the surface details, like whether a winery uses French oak, or 100% new oak, how many months does the wine age in oak, etcetera. Well, there are so many other details involved with barrel selection and how they can be used, it will make your hea…

1
Realm and RIISE: Juan Mercado's Transition from Connoisseur to Creator 1:12:53

2M ago1:12:53

1:12:53

Welcome back, wine enthusiasts, to another installment of The Black Wine Guy Experience. I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today we have a fascinating episode with a very special guest. Join us on a journey through the rich tapestry of life and wine with Juan Mercado, the founder and vintner at RIISE Wines. In episode 148, we'll uncork the story of how…

1
Culture Club Pt. II: The Art and Heart of Winemaking with Cellar Master Octavio Barrera 1:01:48

2M ago1:01:48

1:01:48

Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today in Episode 147 titled "Octavio," we uncork the life and passion of a man deeply rooted in the winemaking industry. Joining us is the dedicated cellar master at Tooth and Nail Wine Company, and the indomitable spirit behind their success, Octavio Barrera Morales. From…

1
Vines and Punchlines: John Coyle Talks Wine, Comedy, and Authenticity 1:31:10

2M ago1:31:10

1:31:10

Welcome back to "The Black Wine Guy Experience," where your host MJ Towler takes you on a flavorful journey of wine, life, and laughter. In episode 146, we're joined by the effervescent John Coyle, a man as rich in stories as he is in his knowledge of wine. Today, we're popping the cork on an array of topics; we'll dribble into tales of full-court …

1
The State of the Wine Union: Talking Wine, Writing, and Culture with Karen MacNeil 1:10:11

2M ago1:10:11

1:10:11

Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In this episode, our host MJ Towler is joined by the incredible Karen MacNeil for a captivating conversation about the world of wine, writing, and media. They delve into the dichotomy of delayed gratification in writing books versus the immediate feedback from digital media, and Karen's opposition to D…

1
The Avant-Garde Aviana Wines 30:57

3M ago30:57

30:57

This brand is what you get when you combine the 4th generation of a historic wine brand (Charles Krug Winery, first established in 1862), with an off-shoot winery that is predominantly owned by women who exhibit the courage and grace of the family’s immigrant matriarch (C Mondavi & Family), and a passion to support nonprofit causes (Equality Now), …

1
From Academia to Wine: Exploring Italian Wine and Culture with Dr. Danielle Callegari 1:41:09

3M ago1:41:09

1:41:09

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience, where we explore the world of wine from unique and diverse perspectives. In this episode, our host, MJ Towler, is joined by the incredibly knowledgeable and passionate Danielle Callegari, a professor at Dartmouth College. Together, they delve into a captivating discussion that covers a wide range of topics,…

1
Lisa Perotti-Brown's Vinous Voyage: From Small-Town Origins to International Wine Influence. 1:37:24

3M ago1:37:24

1:37:24

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience. In this episode, our host MJ Towler, sits down with the remarkable Lisa Perotti-Brown, a true trailblazer in the world of wine. Lisa shares her extraordinary journey from a small town in Maine to becoming a Master of Wine and co-founding The Wine Independent. Join us as Lisa discusses her experiences workin…

1
Understanding Wine, Sports, and Psychology: Unveiling Owen Bargreen's Multifaceted Journey 1:40:39

3M ago1:40:39

1:40:39

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience, where captivating conversations about wine, music, and life take center stage. In this episode, host MJ Towler welcomes Owen Bargreen. A clinical psychologist by day, Owen is a Level 2 Sommelier. He is the creator of OwenBargreen.com, where he exhibits his deep expertise in California, Oregon, and Washingto…

1
Wine, Work, and Walla Walla: Kelsey Itämeri's Inspiring Path to Itä Wines 1:23:01

3M ago1:23:01

1:23:01

In this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, host MJ Towler welcomes Kelsey Itämeri, the owner and winemaker of Ita Wines. Kelsey shares her fascinating journey from political campaign manager to reality TV production assistant, sales manager, and bartender before finding her passion for winemaking. From challenging work environments to findin…

1
Devyani Gupta's Story: From Multiple Jobs to Making Waves in Winemaking 1:13:41

4M ago1:13:41

1:13:41

In this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, host MJ Towler sits down with the inspiring Devyani Gupta, a remarkable figure in the wine industry. Devyani shares her journey, from working multiple jobs while pursuing her passion for winemaking in Walla Walla to her current role as a winemaker and viticulturist at Valdemar Estates. Throughout th…

1
The Stories Behind Delmas Wines: Philosophy, Terroir and Family Legacy with Brooke Robertson 1:26:23

4M ago1:26:23

1:26:23

Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In this episode, our host, MJ Towler, is joined by the talented winemaker Brooke Robertson from Delmas Wines. This engaging conversation covers a wide range of topics, from the significance of seeking knowledge and insights into the Walla Walla Valley's distinctive wine production to personal experienc…

1
From Street Teams to Wine Zines! Exploring Wine, Music, and Culture with Stacy Buchanon! 1:28:48

4M ago1:28:48

1:28:48

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's episode, our host, MJ Towler, sits down with the extraordinary Stacy Buchanon, who delves deep into his diverse and captivating journey. From pioneering street team marketing for major corporations to venturing into the wine industry and creating the innovative "Blood of Gods" zine, Stacy's story…

1
Null Wines, A New Take on N/A Wine Varietals 28:44

5M ago28:44

28:44

As we find ourselves in the period of holiday parties you may be considering how much alcohol you’re consuming. We’re also approaching a month that can be referred to as Dry January, which is supported by an international campaign that promotes a self-imposed break from alcohol. Does that mean wine lovers have to put aside their beloved nectar of t…

1
Snowboarding, Winemaking, and the Pursuit of Passion: Seth Kitze's Journey From Half-Pipes to Vineyards! 1:53:29

5M ago1:53:29

1:53:29

In this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, host MJ Towler sits down with special guest Seth Kitze for an insightful and engaging conversation. Seth grew up in the Yakima Valley, where wine grapes were just starting to gain popularity. Although there were only a few vineyards in the area, people were beginning to make quality wine. However, a…

1
The Magical Bhutan Wine Company (Classic) 42:16

5M ago42:16

42:16

This Classic episode was recorded in September of 2021 for my radio show, then uploaded as a podcast a year later. If you missed it the first time around, I know you'll enjoy it this time. The Kingdom of Bhutan has been referred to as "magical" for quite some time. So I suppose it should come as no surprise that the introduction of vineyards, while…

1
Exploring Terroir: Christophe Baron's Journey from Champagne to “The Stones” of Walla Walla Valley. 1:32:55

5M ago1:32:55

1:32:55

In today's episode, host MJ Towler delves into the fascinating world of wine creation with special guest Christophe Baron. Get ready to uncork your curiosity as we explore Christophe's innovative approach to crafting exceptional wines. In this episode, Christophe shares the story behind his vineyard's unique use of horsepower, paying homage to his …

1
Navigating the Wine Industry: Perspectives from Importers, Winemakers, and Wine Ambassadors. Recorded at Wine2Wine Verona! 1:36:26

5M ago1:36:26

1:36:26

Welcome back to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's BONUS episode from "Wine 2 Wine," we have an exciting lineup of guests joining our host, MJ Towler. Get ready to dive into the world of wine with our special guests: Sofia, Hermione, Alice, Adam, and Michele. Michele, a director at a family-run wine importer and Italian wine ambassador, shar…

1
Unveiling West Sonoma Coast's Unique Terroir: A Conversation with Vintner Andy Peay 1:38:50

5M ago1:38:50

1:38:50

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In this episode, host MJ Towler sits down with special guest Andy Peay, co-founder of Peay Vineyards, to have an in-depth conversation about wine, winemaking, and the unique journey that led Andy to where he is today. They dive into a wide range of topics, including Andy's background, his family's influence…

1
From Shelf Stocker to Winemaker: Chris Cottrell's Remarkable Journey from Shaolin to Sonoma! 1:49:15

5M ago1:49:15

1:49:15

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's episode, we have a special guest joining us, the incredible Chris Cottrell. Chris is a true wine industry enthusiast with a fascinating journey into the world of wine. From his humble beginnings as a shelf stocker, Chris has grown to become a respected figure in t…

1
The Art of Savoring: Enhancing Your Life through the Power of Taste and Appreciation with Mandy Naglisch 1:34:51

6M ago1:34:51

1:34:51

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience, where we dive deep into the world of taste and flavor. In today's episode, we have an exceptional guest, Mandy Naglish, a renowned food and beverage journalist, beer educator, and author. Mandy is here to share her expertise on tasting and exploring flavors and how they can truly enhance our life experience…

1
Unveiling a New Wine Culture: JM and the Urban Wine Tribe Movement. 1:44:16

6M ago1:44:16

1:44:16

Ladies and gentlemen, wine enthusiasts, and curious minds welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In today's episode, "JM’shi Urban Wine Tribe," we dive deep into wine culture, diversity, and the relentless pursuit of creating and challenging oneself. Our host, MJ Towler, sits down with the incredible JM, a passionate wine influencer and content …

1
Wine, Hustle, and Determination: Malek Amrani's Path to Wine Industry Success. 1:41:13

6M ago1:41:13

1:41:13

Welcome back to another episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today, we are thrilled to have an incredible guest joining us, Malek Amrani. Malek's story is a true testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. From his humble beginnings in Morocco to becoming a renowned figure in the wine industry, Malek has…

1
Jennifer Brown of BACA 28:52

6M ago28:52

28:52

In this episode you’ll meet Jennifer Brown of Napa Valley’s Hall Family. They are more or less based in three counties, they source from a good number of appellations across California, and they have three brands that I’ll touch upon, but we’ll focus on BACA Wines. BACA only produces Zinfandel, which I found interesting knowing that Jennifer’s fami…

1
Behind the Beats and Bottles: Will Tell's Experiences as a Hip-Hop Producer and Wine Connoisseur. 1:33:33

6M ago1:33:33

1:33:33

Welcome to The Black Wine Guy Experience! In this episode, a special guest joins MJ: the world-renowned hip-hop music producer, MC, and entrepreneur Will Tell. With an impressive roster of collaborations featuring artists like A Tribe Called Quest, Wu-Tang Clan, and Daryl DMC McDaniels, Will has significantly impacted the music industry. But that's…

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