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podcast· 1h 12m· S6E148Realm 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
- podcast· 1h 40m· S6E142
Understanding Wine, Sports, and Psychology: Unveiling Owen Bargreen's Multifaceted Journey
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 Washington wines. Together, MJ and Owen dive into a wide range of topics, from the intriguing world of wine tasting and criticism to candid discussions about their personal backgrounds and experiences. Join us as we explore the fascinating intersection of wine, sports, psychology, and the human experience with our insightful guest, Owen Bargreen. A Massive THANK YOU to OWEN BARGREEN!!! This episode’s wines: 2021 Holocene "Memorialis" Pinot Noir 2022 Woodward Canyon “Washington” Chardonnay For more information about Owen Bargreen click the link! Follow Owen on IG! To learn more about Holocene Wines , click the link
- podcast· 1h 23m· S6E141
Wine, Work, and Walla Walla: Kelsey Itämeri's Inspiring Path to Itä Wines
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 finding joy in making wine, Kelsey's story is one of resilience and determination. She discusses her experiences in the wine industry, including her decision to make six different wines at a custom crush facility and her unique approach to wine production. Listeners will also hear about her time in Burgundy, France, and how she brings her diverse experiences and palate to craft exceptional wines. Tune in to learn about Kelsey's compelling journey and her philosophy behind designing a life filled with passion and purpose. A Massive THANK YOU to KELSEY ITÄMERI!!! This episode’s wine: 2022 Itä Semillion No.1 To learn more about Itä Wines ,
- podcast· 1h 13m· S6E140
Devyani Gupta's Story: From Multiple Jobs to Making Waves in Winemaking
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 the episode, she discusses her experiences, including her internships, mentorship programs, and dedication to making the wine industry more inclusive. With an in-depth look at her winemaking philosophy and personal connections to the industry. Devyani's story is one of determination, passion, and a deep love for wine. Stick around to hear about her favorite wines, her role in the Washington State Wine Commission, and her fascinating journey into winemaking, all on this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience. A Massive THANK YOU to DEVANYI GUPTA!!! This episode’s wines: 2020 Valdemar Estate Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon To learn m
- podcast· 1h 26m· S6E139
The Stories Behind Delmas Wines: Philosophy, Terroir and Family Legacy with Brooke Robertson
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 experiences in Napa Valley. Brooke shares her journey into winemaking, her family's deep roots in the wine industry, and the challenges they faced in pursuing their vineyard dream. Tune in as they explore academia, winemaking philosophy, and the unique characteristics of different wine regions. Join us as we uncork this insightful and dynamic exploration of winemaking, academia, personal journey, and the inspirational story of a winemaker with a deep passion for her craft. A Massive THANK YOU to BROOKE ROBERTSON!!! This episode’s wines: Delmas Field Blend Multi-Vintage To learn more about Delmas Wines , click the link! Follow B
- podcast· 1h 28m· S6E138
From Street Teams to Wine Zines! Exploring Wine, Music, and Culture with Stacy Buchanon!
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 is nothing short of enthralling. Stacy Buchanon was born in Walla Walla in 1980, where his family has been involved in wheat farming and barley for generations. Growing up, he was unaware of the burgeoning wine industry in his hometown but later discovered its slow rise. After leaving Walla Walla for 8 years to work in the music industry, Stacy returned to find his sleepy town transformed by the growing wine industry. During their conversation, Stacy shares his experiences in the music industry, his transition to the wine world, and the intricacies of launching an independent print magazine. They discuss the rich culture in Walla Walla, the
- podcast· 1h 53m· S6E137
Snowboarding, Winemaking, and the Pursuit of Passion: Seth Kitze's Journey From Half-Pipes to Vineyards!
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, at that time, Washington state consumers were not as passionate about wine as they are today. Seth observed the growth of the wine industry and the expansion of the Tri-Cities area, which used to primarily focus on cherries and apples. Despite the limited resources, Seth witnessed the evolution of winemaking in the region. They delve into not only Seth's experiences in the snowboarding industry and the challenges of making ends meet but also his transition into the world of winemaking and the unique journey that led him to become a co-owner and winemaker of Kinsey Cellars Upside Down and the Devil is a Liar Wine. The discussion spans fro
- podcast· 1h 32m· S6E136
Exploring Terroir: Christophe Baron's Journey from Champagne to “The Stones” of Walla Walla Valley.
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 ancestors who relied on draft horses in French vineyards. We learn about his experimentation with high-density planting, resulting in riper stems and lower alcohol levels. Christophe also discusses how this method could offer a solution in the face of global warming. You'll also discover Christophe's dedication to biodynamic farming and his role as a steward of the land, ensuring sustainable practices in all his brands. Join us as Christophe takes us on a journey to the exciting world of Bionic Wines. Learn about their flagship Syrah, affectionately named "Bionic Frog," and the philosophy behind their gorgeous labels. Plus, gain insight into
- podcast· 1h 36m
Navigating the Wine Industry: Perspectives from Importers, Winemakers, and Wine Ambassadors. Recorded at Wine2Wine Verona!
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, shares his expertise from Italy and the UK. We then shift gears and hear from Adam and Hermione, who are involved in publishing wine-related books. Join us as they share their insights on the importance of storytelling in the wine industry and their experiences with AI. Alice kicks off the conversation by sharing a memorable wine experience with a story about Shiraz from Australia, which her partner helped her study blind tastings with. Sofia takes us on a journey through her winemaking ventures in Sicily, particularly on Mount Etna. She reveals the unique qualities of Mount Etna wines and her passion for showcasing quality Italian wines in the U
- podcast· 1h 38m· S6E135
Unveiling West Sonoma Coast's Unique Terroir: A Conversation with Vintner Andy Peay
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 on his love for wine, the founding of Peay Vineyards, and the intricacies of winemaking on the West Sonoma Coast. From discussing sustainable food initiatives and organic farming practices to exploring the distinct qualities of their 2021 vintage wines, this episode offers a fascinating look into the world of winemaking and the passion that drives Andy's approach. Join us as we uncork the stories behind the bottles and gain a deeper understanding of what makes Peay Vineyards a truly special part of the wine industry. A Massive THANK YOU to Andy Peayll!!! This episode’s wines: 2021 Peay Chardonnay West Sonoma Coast &
- podcast· 1h 49m· S6E134
From Shelf Stocker to Winemaker: Chris Cottrell's Remarkable Journey from Shaolin to Sonoma!
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 the industry. Join our host, MJ Towler, as they dive into Chris's experiences, starting with the unexpected job he found through Craigslist. They reminisce about the vibrant energy of the early 2000s wine industry and the cool projects they were a part of. But it wasn't just about the job for Chris. He was drawn to the artistry and storytelling of wine, developing his palate by tasting different wines at Crush. With a fondness for Zinfandel and a particular love for the Old Hill vineyard, Chris's passion for wine is evident in every conversation. But that's not all! Chris also drops some exciting news – he's getting married in May.
- podcast· 1h 34m· S6E133
The Art of Savoring: Enhancing Your Life through the Power of Taste and Appreciation with Mandy Naglisch
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. MJ and Mandy delve into the fascinating realm of blind tasting, exploring how visual perception can influence taste perception. They discuss the impact of different visual cues on our experience of beer and wine and how being mindful of flavor can make every sip more enjoyable. They also touch on the often overlooked aftertaste of wine and the importance of paying attention to it when pairing with food. Mandy shares insights from her book, "How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life," which covers topics ranging from wine and cheese to ice cream, honey, tea, chocolate, and even water. Throughout th
- podcast· 1h 44m· S6E132
Unveiling a New Wine Culture: JM and the Urban Wine Tribe Movement.
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 creator who believes that the wine industry lacks diversity and aims to create his own vibrant subculture within it. Join us as JM shares his vision of making wine more accessible, exploring personal preferences, and bridging different worlds together. From his unique journey, including an unexpected foray into the wine world after a poker club endeavor, to hisr love for creating iconic pairings, JM captivates with his dynamic personality and keen insights. Get ready to sip, savor, and explore the fascinating world of wine with JM and MJ on this exhilarating episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience! So, grab your favor