The Chronicle
Latest dispatches
108 results across all types
podcast· 1h 31mThe Evolution of JJ Redick: Hoops, Wine, Media to NBA Head Coach!
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 the Los Angeles Laker sJJ Redick! From growing up in Roanoke, Virginia, with a backyard hoop and a passion for both basketball and baseball, to shining as Duke University's all-time leading scorer and becoming an NBA standout, JJ's journey is nothing short of inspirational. We'll dive deep into his career highs and lows, the pivotal moments that shaped him, and his love for wine, especially his preference for Northern Rhone over Bordeaux. JJ opens up about the pressures athletes face, the importance
- podcast· 52:37
Inside Vinexposium a Grand Event for Wine Enthusiasts:Bridging Global Wine Cultures
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 trends and Virginia's emerging wine scene to exciting plans for VINEXPO America 2024 in New York City. Plus, there's an exclusive offer for our loyal listeners and Black Wine Guy Instagram followers. Fanny also shares her journey into the wine world, influenced by her Italian and French heritage, and her passion for wines from regions like Alsace, Burgundy, and the Rhone Valley. So, pour yourself a glass and tune in for an engaging discussion on the dynamic world of wine, the energy of physi
- podcast· 1h 21m· S7E163
From Touchdowns to Tannins: NFL Star Sidney Rice on Life, Sports, and Creating Unique Wine Experiences
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 triumphs that come with blending a passion for wine and a legendary football career. We'll hear about Sidney's early love for sports, from his standout days in South Carolina's youth football leagues to his rise as an NFL Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion. Plus, we'll delve into the dynamic world of Dossier Wine Collective, the innovative ideas behind our unique wine labels, and how we're striving to make wine accessible and engaging for everyone. Sidney also shares candid stories from his professi
- podcast· 1h 04m· S7E162
The Wine Path: South African Wines and Peter Andrews' Passion for Diversity
Recorded Live at Hospice du Rhone Walla Walla. Welcome to another thrilling episode of "Beats Vines & Life." I'm your host, MJ Towler, and today, we have an inspiring guest who embodies the true spirit of passion and perseverance. Join me as we dive into the extraordinary journey of Peter Andrews, the founder of Culture Wine Company, specializing in South African wines from independent producers. From reorganizing a reserve room in retail to mastering the art of winemaking in Italy, Peter's path is filled with rich experiences and heartfelt stories. We'll explore his time harvesting in Piedmont, his MBA pursuit, and his dedication to promoting diversity in the wine industry. Along the way, we'll also chat about the best pizzas in different cities, the unique flavors of Friulano wines, and the cultural melting pot of Italy's wine regions. Peter's adventures stretch from Charleston to Providence, Tanzania to South Africa, and his unwavering belief in the people behind t
- podcast· 1h 45m· S7E161
Prema Korellis and The New Bohemians. Talkin' *Ish and Wine Drinking West Sonoma Coast Style!
Welcome to another episode of "Beats Vines & Life" where we delve into the cultural and emotional significance of wine as a product. Join host MJ Towler along with guests Prema Korellis and Ryan Prichard of Three Sticks Wines as they share their unique experiences in the world of wine, discussing everything from rare vintages to the challenges and joys of winemaking. From exploring the impact of wine critics to the importance of authenticity in the industry, this episode promises to take you on a flavorful journey through the colorful world of wine culture. So pour yourself a glass, sit back, and enjoy the blend of music, lifestyle, and of course, some exquisite wines on this episode of Beats Vines & Life! A Massive THANK YOU to PREMA KEROLLIS & RYAN PRICHARD!!! This episode’s wines: 2023 Three Sticks Casteñada Rosė 2022 Three Sticks Durrell Vineyard Pinot Blanc 2022 Three Sticks Gap’s Crown Pinot Noir To learn more about Three Sticks Wine , clic
- podcast· 50:18
Live from Hospice du Rhone: The Future of Wine in the Northwest: Insights from Todd Alexander
Hey everyone, welcome back to a BONUS episode of Beats Vines & Life! Today, I sit in with Sam Coturri & Brian Casey of The Winemakers Pod as we have an extraordinary guest join us—Todd Alexander, a trailblazing winemaker who decided to shake things up by exploring the Pacific Northwest Todd shares personal stories about his passion for wine, the changing landscapes of downtown Walla Walla, and his thoughts on the future of the wine industry. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a lover of travel stories, or someone who enjoys hearing about life's unique journeys, this episode has something for everyone. Stay tuned as Sam, Brian and I chat with Todd Alexander on this captivating episode of Beats Vines & Life! A Massive THANK YOU to THE WINEMAKERS POD !!! This episode’s wines: Some Winery Sixteen/600 Shit! To learn more about Holocene Wines , click the link! Follow Holocene Wines on IG! To learn more about Force Majeure Vineyards , click the link!Follow Force Majeure on IG! To learn m
- podcast· 1h 44m· S7E160
Tempo of Terroir: Music, Wine, and Randall Grahm's Legacy.
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 evolutio
- podcast· 1h 39m· S7E159
Uncovering David Bowler: Insights on Wine, Music, and Cultural Trends
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.&n
- podcast· 1h 28m· S7E158
Pouring Passion: Alex Mackh on Wines, Glassware, and Family Traditions
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 "
- podcast· 1h 51m· S7E157
The Craft of Cultivating Legacy: Tegan Passalaqua is Unveiling the Rich History of California Vineyards
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 the fertile grounds of Lodi, California, and beyond, sipping the rich stories that lie within each vineyard. Tegan brings her deep-rooted passion for old vine varietals and forgotten classics to the table, along with tales of a landscape changing under the pressure of progress and perception. We'll explore the delicate dance of sustainable winemaking, the challenges faced by the industry, and the push for transparency and honesty in every bottle. Get ready to learn about the nuances that make a red table wine, the impact of sand and clay on viticulture, and how a conversation and a taste of Lodi changed Tegan's path forever. We'll also touch o
- podcast· 1h 34m· S7E156
Pouring Over Pages: Lettie Teague's Life in Wine and Wordz.
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 episode delves deep into Lettie's intriguing journey from a liquor store to the lustrous halls of wine-writing prominence. We get personal as Lettie reminisces about her early years working in her parents’ shop and the invaluable lessons learned under the mentorship of wine maven Roberta Morell. Despite a rocky start in wine wholesale, Lettie's admiration for the industry's assertive salespeople set the tone for a storied career. Our conversation turns the pages of the downward spiral magazines faced during the 2008 economic downturn, highlighting Lettie’s lament on content diversity, all while she honors the craft of journalists with a touching
- podcast· 1h 38m· S7E155
From Minnesota to The Mosel: Jenna Fields' Story of Riesling and Resilience.
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 beginnings in Eagan, Minnesota, to the aromatic vineyards of Germany's Ahr Valley, Jenna's journey is as complex and compelling as the Pinot Noir we'll be sipping on today with our host, MJ Towler. We'll uncork the story of how a business card and a fateful decision not to work at Target, but to dive headfirst into the intricate German wine market, paved the path for Jenna's remarkable ascent. Join us as we swirl through her tales of resilience in the aftermath of a natural disaster that ravaged the vineyards she so dearly champions. With each sip, we'll explore Jenna's evolution from nanny to president and founder of a company that tod
- podcast· 1h 26m· S7E154
From Vines to Vinyl: Aaron Jackson’s Life in Notes and Tannins
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 passionate youth to an established name in the wine industry. Aaron shares his excitement for the ever-evolving winemaking process, the highs, the challenges, and the way climate change is stirring the pot. He invites us all for a toast and a trip down to their winery in Tin City, Paso, while relishing the deep, enduring connection between wine and its connoisseurs. Host MJ Towler dives into Aaron's technique, philosophy, and passionate drive that led him to specialize in the Petite Sirah variety. Alongside discussions on blending artistry and winery challenges of today, Aaron's tale serves as a beacon for aspiring young entrepreneurs in t
- podcast· 1h 23m· S7E153
Dane Curley: The Artist Shaping California's Wine Scene One Label at a Time.
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 conversation with the multifaceted Dane Curley — an artist, a designer, a man who paints the stories of wines onto the very labels that grace their bottles. Dive in with us as Dane takes us through his personal journey — from the Southern California waves to the ivied halls of New England's educational institutions. His story is a cocktail of surfboards and fine art, mental health advocacy, and a familial lineage of ingenuity. He's a man whose trajectory from Orange County to a Central Coast maverick exemplifies the freedom and accountability of the entrepreneurial spirit. We'll swirl around tales of artistic burnout, triumphant caree
- podcast· 1h 00m· S6E152
Sipping on Sustainability: Family, Innovation, and the Quest for Quality Wines at Jada Vineyards.
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 with us an intimate glimpse into their journey from Nate's mentorship under Josh to taking the bold leap into winemaking decisions that shape the landscape of the vineyard today. In this episode, we'll uncork the anecdotes and advice they would give their younger selves, revel in the fun of our wine game, and plunge into the rich nuances of their celebrated 2021 Hell's Kitchen wine blend while also touching upon the emotionally charged decision to sell the family vineyard. From inspiring family values to the intricacies of organic and biodynamic farming, Josh and Nate distill their experiences and aspirations into every bottle of wine, lea
- podcast· 1h 38m· S6E151
From Trader Joe's to Tasting Room: Exploring the Craft of Winemaking with McPrice Myers
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, we'll dive into Mac's early years, swapping the glove for a corkscrew as a devastating injury shifted his path from aspiring pro athlete to wine prodigy. We'll venture through the aisles of Trader Joe's, where a young Mac's curiosity for wine was uncorked, and follow his palate awakening beyond burgers and fries to a zest for pairing vibrant vinos with heartwarming home-cooked meals. From Mac's self-taught winemaking beginning to becoming a fixture in Santa Barbara and Paso's wine tapestry, we're uncorking the details on some of the most dynamic blends—Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah—and the story behind the flavorful 2023 release that reflects a
- podcast· 1h 26m· S6E150
Unleashing the Gypsy Spirit: Vailia From’s Journey into the World of Winemaking
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 in La Jolla to that fateful moment circling wine job ads with a roommate and diving into the art of telephone sales at Gerhardt Wines. Vailia shares her struggles and triumphs, including work in Canada's tightly controlled wine market, her transformative backpacking adventure in Central America, and the start of her very own wine business alongside her husband, known for Herman Story Wines. We get personal as Vailia recalls childhood luxury experiences that shaped her, the powerhouse influence of her grandmother, and her commitment to embracing both the glamor and grit of winemaking. Taste the passion as she discusses her Bordeaux-style
- podcast· 1h 37m· S6E149
Paso Vibes: Justin Smith Talks Wine, Life, and The Perfect Blend
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 swirl through the early years: from Justin's father crafting wines with old vine Zinfandel and Petite Syrah to the serendipitous planting of Rhone varieties that foreshadowed the rise of their acclaimed vineyard in Paso Robles. We'll taste the complexities of grape labeling, delve into the fascinating mislabeling saga involving Morvedra and Graciano, and appreciate the adaptability of vineyard practices to Paso's unique climate. Justin will share insights on crafting wine intuitively—like making a sandwich to achieve the perfect flavor balance—and discuss the challenges and triumphs within the industry, including his iconic meeti
- podcast· 1h 12m· S6E148
Realm and RIISE: Juan Mercado's Transition from Connoisseur to Creator
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 a tasting at All Seasons Cafe in Napa uncapped Juan's passion for high-end wines, propelling him from a collector to a pivotal player in the wine industry. We'll explore his early encounters with vintages from Screaming Eagle and Harlan and his eventual move to Saint Helena to be even closer to the heart of wine country. Juan isn't just about collecting, though; he's a creator at his core. Learn about his transition from a career in pulmonary medicine to the art of winemaking, a move spurred on by Fred Schraeder and the mentorship of industry standouts such as Andy Beckstoffer and Christian Mouiex. Hear how opportunities and timi
- podcast· 1h 01m· S6E147
Culture Club Pt. II: The Art and Heart of Winemaking with Cellar Master Octavio Barrera
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 his original ambitions in mechanics to his inspiring journey in the vineyards of California, Octavio's tale is one of tenacity, family values, and the love of craft. We'll sip through stories of his childhood in Mexico, his migration to Santa Cruz, and his rise from the bottom rungs of the winery to leading a crew harvesting the lush fields of Paso Robles. Stay with us as we pour into the intricacies of the Amorphati 2022 wine, share a glass of insight on the challenging yet rewarding winemaking process, and laugh a little about life's unexpected turns, including how BBQs and shopping with teenagers are part of the blend. O
- podcast· 1h 31m· S6E146
Vines and Punchlines: John Coyle Talks Wine, Comedy, and Authenticity
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 basketball at Boston Garden and saunter through the vineyards of John's path from the hard streets of Roxbury to the eclectic essence of Venice, California. We'll sip on the bold flavors of John's experiences as he shares his antics at the Harvey Krishna Center, his leap into the world of wine inspired by a past partner's passion for the vineyard's nectar, and his ambitious strides in the entertainment industry. As we swirl our glasses, we'll get intoxicating insights into the hustle of comedy, the tenacity required to fuel a podcast for over 230 episodes, and the grit needed to make it in the competitive arenas of acting, stand-u
- podcast· 1h 10m· S6E145
The State of the Wine Union: Talking Wine, Writing, and Culture with Karen MacNeil
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 Dry January, advocating instead for moderation and the cultural significance of wine. They share personal experiences, from the joys of working in the wine industry to the challenges of creating valuable content in the digital media space. Stay tuned as they discuss the impact of societal changes and misinformation on the wine industry, and the unifying nature of wine in bringing people together. So grab a glass of your favorite wine and tune in for an enriching and enlightening episode! A Massive THANK YOU to KAREN MACNEIL!!! For more information about Karen click the link! To subscribe to Wine Speed click the link! Follow K
- podcast· 1h 41m· S6E144
From Academia to Wine: Exploring Italian Wine and Culture with Dr. Danielle Callegari
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, from the complexities of Italian wines to academia and Dante's influence. Join us as we uncover the fascinating world of wine and the rich experiences that shape our appreciation for it. Tune in as we sip into the depths of Italian culture, academia, and the sensory pleasure of wine in this enlightening and engaging conversation on The Black Wine Guy Experience. A Massive THANK YOU to DR. DANIELLE CALLEGARI!!! This episode’s wines: 2019 Mastroberardino 'Stilema' Fiano di Avellino Riserva DOCG 2022 Massican Gemina California White Wine To purchase Danielle’s book Dante's Gluttons cl
- podcast· 1h 37m· S6E143
Lisa Perotti-Brown's Vinous Voyage: From Small-Town Origins to International Wine Influence.
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 working with renowned wine critic Robert Parker and her mission to provide unbiased and quality wine criticism. From her early days in London's wine scene to her global adventures in Singapore and Tokyo, Lisa's story is one of determination, passion, and a deep appreciation for the art of fine wine. Get ready for an insightful and inspiring conversation with a true influencer in the world of wine. A Massive THANK YOU to LISA PEROTTI-BROWN!!! For more information about The Wine Independent click the link! Follow The Wine Independent on IG! Follow Lisa on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, ch