Advertise on podcast: Beats Vines and Life

On this episode of Beats Vines & Life, MJ Towler welcomes celebrated wine journalist and editor Ray Isle for a deep, wide-ranging conversation that flows from Houston childhood memories to the heart of global wine culture. As the executive wine editor for Food & Wine magazine and author of The World in a Wine Glass, Ray Isle shares stories of unexpected career pivots, working the vineyard grind, and becoming a trusted guide for millions seeking the soul in every bottle. With humor, candor, and a passionate love for music, food, and literary storytelling, MJ Towler and Ray Isle explore the evolution of Gen X culture, the changing face of wine in America, and what it means to bridge community through shared experiences. Expect discussions on everything from the power of indie wine merchants and the fleeting world of social media influencers to travel adventures in captivating vineyards and the essential connection between music, philosophy, and life’s most memorable pours. Whether you’re here for the wine, the music, or the beats of everyday life, get ready to discover something new about the world—and maybe yourself—over a glass and some good conversation. Follow Ray on IG! Follow Food and Wine on IG! For more information about The World in a Wine Glass click the link! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. For more information, go to GrenacheFest Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Beats, Vines & Life, where Gen X culture, music, and the philosophy of coming together over good wine take center stage. In this episode, MJ sits down with Mark Pascal and Francis Schott—the legendary Restaurant Guys—whose roots in the hospitality world run deep. Before launching one of the world’s first food podcasts back in 2005, Francis and his partner Mark Pascal were trailblazers in New Jersey’s restaurant scene, transforming Stage Left Steak and Catherine Lombardi into beloved community hubs for food and wine lovers. We’ll explore their 30-year friendship, their love for music and authentic living, and how fostering genuine community—not just business—has shaped their journey. From wild stories of working the bar at The Frog and The Peach to organizing live podcasts with culinary legends and serving up Old World and New World wines, Francis shares the art of hospitality, the value of curiosity, and the enduring power of shared stories. This episode celebrates Gen X sensibilities—opinionated, collaborative, culturally curious, and always chasing the next great track (or bottle). Get ready for laughs, life lessons, and a few slices of insider wisdom from one of hospitality’s most entertaining storytellers. Grab a glass, hit play, and join MJ, Francis, and Mark as they navigate the beats, vines, and life that make up the soul of a restaurant—and maybe, just maybe, the soul of a generation. To listen to The Restaurant Guys Podcast click the link! Follow The Restaurant Guys on IG! For more information about restaurant Catherine Lombardi click the link! For more information about Stage Left Steak click the link! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. For more information, go to GrenacheFest Follow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another episode of Beats Vines & Life, where we blend the soundtrack of Gen X culture with stories from the heart of American wine country. This time, the conversation focused on the Great American Wine Tour—a journey crisscrossing Napa, Willamette, the Finger Lakes, Texas Hill Country, Virginia, and beyond to uncover the most remarkable wines made right here in the USA. One concept discussed was the uniquely American spirit of winemaking—a landscape not bound by centuries-old European traditions but shaped by innovation, passion, and diverse backgrounds. The discussion explored the personal stories, the craft, and the people behind iconic wineries like Silver Oak, Rombauer, Seghesio, and the up-and-coming Gagnon & Kennedy, spotlighting how American winemakers pave their own paths and redefine what excellence looks (and tastes) like. A key theme that emerged was wine as the great connector: a bridge between music, lifestyle, and community, and a medium for conversation, discovery, and shared experience. The episode delved into everything from wine criticism and the meaning of authenticity, to the playful rivalry over pork roll in New Jersey, and the essential truth that wine should be approachable, fun, and—above all—a source of joy. So pour a glass, settle in, and get ready to meet the people and hear the stories behind the bottles that are transforming the American wine landscape—no pretense, just great conversation, a bit of humor, a lot of heart, and a soundtrack only Gen X could curate. Watch The Great American Wine Tour on YouTube click the link! Follow Keith on IG! Follow VinePair on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Third Grenache Festival will be held on November 7th, 2026 in Waitsburg, Washington. It will feature a blind tasting seminar, followed by three breakout sessions and, of course, 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.

On this episode of Beats, Vines & Life, we’re diving deep into the rhythms of Gen X culture, Italian style, and the art of coastal winemaking with Elia Pellegrini, fourth-generation owner and vintner at Aia Vecchia—an estate rooted in the heart of Tuscany’s vibrant wine scene. Raised among vineyards and steeped in classic traditions, Elia brings a fresh, modern vision to his family’s legacy, where old-world philosophy meets the pulse of contemporary wine, food, and lifestyle. From memories of childhood football dreams and Sunday lunches heavy with wild boar and fresh pasta, to the complexities of selling Italian authenticity and navigating global wine markets, Elia’s story is a celebration of legacy, evolution, and living la dolce vita. We dive into the nuances of Tuscan cuisine, the secrets behind Bolgheri’s Bordeaux-inspired wines, and why Italy’s next generation—whether on the vineyard or the soccer field—is all about balancing tradition, innovation, and a little bit of rock ‘n’ roll swagger. Pour a glass, settle in, and get ready for a conversation that pairs perfectly with whatever’s on your plate. For more information about Aia Vecchia Winer click the link! Follow Aia Vechhia on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. Early Bird Ticket Sales are Live! Don’t miss the premier event for winery direct-to-consumer sales and marketing—early-bird pricing for the DTC Wine Symposium in Monterey, CA, January 19-21, 2027 is now in effect until Labor Day. This year's event features an incredible lineup of visionary keynote speakers including André Huston Mack, Jermaine Stone, and Vinny Warren. Get ready to help your brand differentiate and build lasting consumer loyalty. In addition to our game-changing educational sessions and bootcamps, we are thrilled to introduce a brand-new golf tournament perfect for networking on the greens and our Cocktail party at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.  Register today by visiting: https://dtcwinesymposium.regfox.com 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Thank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Third Grenache Festival will be held on November 7th, 2026 in Waitsburg, Washington. It will feature a blind tasting seminar, followed by three breakout sessions and, of course, 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.

Welcome to another episode of Beats, Vines & Life! Today, host MJ Towler sits down with award-winning filmmaker, storyteller, and founder of Nomadic Bear Productions, Christopher McGilvray. Based out of Santa Cruz, Chris’s journey takes us from his upbringing at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains through the heyday of Silicon Valley’s rise, to his creative evolution at USC, global travels, and ultimately to a decade crafting cinematic narratives for iconic wine brands like Ridge Vineyards. In this episode, we explore how Gen X culture, family, and the pursuit of passion intersect on screen and in the vineyard. From childhood trips across Blossom Hill Road and the changing face of Los Gatos, to discovering a love of film with classics like Back to the Future and The Breakfast Club, Chris’s story is a trip through the cultural touchstones that defined a generation. Chris shares how his immersion in linguistics and storytelling shaped his approach to documentary filmmaking, shedding light on the deep connections between land, legacy, and the people who make wine. We’ll dig into the making of Eden, his acclaimed film about Mount Eden Vineyards, family succession, and what it really means to chase your creative vision—even when it challenges the fabric of family. Along the way, expect reflections on music, philosophy, the art of conversation, why the Santa Cruz Mountains remain one of California’s best-kept secrets, and why sometimes the most powerful stories start, simply, with a glass of wine. Pull up a chair, pour yourself a glass of something good, and join us for a conversation about music, movies, wine, and life—Gen X style. For more information about Eden the movie click the link! Follow Chris on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Beats, Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down with Vincent Morrow—“Vinny” to his friends—a master sommelier, educator, and hospitality executive whose journey from a college soccer player in Arizona to overseeing beverage programs for Union Square Hospitality Group is nothing short of inspiring. Vinny shares how his early experiences in iconic California wineries like Ridge Vineyards and his time in legendary dining rooms like The French Laundry and Gary Danko shaped his unique perspective on wine, service, and leadership. MJ and Vinny dive into what it takes to build a legendary palate (and a legendary wine list), the realities of restaurant life behind the Instagram gloss, their favorite music for pre-service motivation, and the lessons gleaned from both high-pressure kitchens and the wide world of wine. Along the way, Vinny’s stories connect the dots between craft, culture, hustle, and the pursuit of authentic hospitality—from Napa all the way to New York City. Whether you’re a wine lover, music head, or just trying to find your lane in the lifestyle you’re building, this conversation is full of real talk, big laughs, and insights you won’t want to miss. For more information about Union Square Hospitality Group click the link! Follow Vinny on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special bonus episode of Beats Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down with the legendary Andre Mack, award-winning sommelier, creative force behind Maison Noir wines, and branding maverick.  Together, they dive into Andre Mack's newest project, "Thirst Trap"—a bold, genre-bending live show that fuses wine education with the energy of music, humor, and authentic storytelling. Forget traditional, intimidating wine tastings: Andre Mack is on a mission to make wine approachable, connected to pop culture, and—most of all—fun.  Tune in as they explore the intersections of music, lifestyle, and wine, and uncover how breaking the old rules is creating a fresh space for everyone at the table. To purchase Thirst Trap tickets click the link! Follow Andre on IG! For more information about Maison Noir Wines click the link! Follow Maison Noir on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Beats Vines & Life, host MJ Towler welcomes Giancarlo Altamura, assistant winemaker and next-generation voice of Napa Valley. Hailing from a family with roots in Napa since the mid-1800s, Giancarlo Altamura grew up immersed in the rhythms of farming, winemaking, and tight-knit community life. He shares stories of hands-on vineyard work, navigating family dynamics, and the evolution of Napa from small-town camaraderie to global destination. Listeners will get an inside look at what it means to steward an estate winery—where patience, tradition, and innovation intersect to create wines that express both land and season. Giancarlo Altamura discusses the challenges and rewards of being a boutique producer, the family’s focus on estate-grown wines, and their commitment to authenticity in both wine and cuisine—from their acclaimed Altamura Cabernet Sauvignon to their Italian restaurant Ciccio. Join us for a conversation about roots, legacy, and the real lifestyle of winemakers, as we uncork a story that’s equal parts hustle, heritage, and heart. For more information about Altamura Vineyards click the link! Follow Altamura on IG! For more information about Ciccio Napa Valley click the link! Follow Ciccio Napa Valley on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another life-focused edition of Beats, Vines & Life. Today, MJ Towler sits down with renowned entrepreneur, teacher, and bestselling author Seth Godin. Known for his game-changing books like Purple Cow, Tribes, and This Is Marketing, Seth Godin has shaped the thinking of marketers, creators, and leaders around the world.  In this episode, the conversation explores the intersection of marketing, storytelling, connection, and lifestyle—diving deep into why stories matter in the world of wine, how meaning and community elevate experiences, and the real power behind the premium price tag on that special bottle.  From wine glasses and chocolate bars to placebos and permission-based marketing, get ready for practical wisdom and insight on building trust, finding your tribe, and living a life—and creating products—that truly matter. Pour a glass, settle in, and enjoy a conversation about creativity, generosity, and the courage to ship your best work. Subscribe to Seth’s Blog! Follow Seth on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to "Beats, Vines & Life," where we blend conversations on music, culture, and the real moments that shape our lives. In today’s episode, sits down with Angela Nissel—bestselling author, television writer, and co-founder of the legendary Okay Player community. From her early days chronicling the realities of broke college life online to breaking new ground as a Black woman in both music and the writers’ room, Angela’s story is a masterclass in authenticity, laughter, and survival. Raised in the heart of Philadelphia, Angela’s memoirs—like the iconic "Broke Diaries" and her latest, "Good Grief: Pass the Bread, Mom Is Dead"—have cracked open the ways we talk about struggle, loss, and finding joy in unexpected places. She’s written and produced for shows like "Scrubs" and "The Boondocks," always bringing sharp wit and soulful perspective. In this intimate conversation, we revisit wild 90s Philly nights, the rise of social media and OK Player, and the power of music and community to heal. From hilarious thrift store finds to hard-won lessons in family, grief, and hustle, Angela reminds us why her voice is a gift to the culture. So pour a glass, turn up the volume, and get ready for a conversation that’s as real—and as musical—as life itself. Buy Angela’s Latest Book! Good Grief Pass The Bread Mom is Dead  Follow Angela on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! Today’s conversation focused on the fight to preserve independent winemaking, family legacy, and the spirit of Napa Valley in the face of legal and regulatory challenges. This episode dives into the story of Hoopes Vineyard—a multi-generational, regenerative wine business—and the high-stakes legal battle with Napa County that puts both land and legacy on the line. One concept discussed was the mounting pressure on small producers as corporate interests and complex regulations reshape the region’s culture and economy. A key theme that emerged was resilience: how family farms and passionate advocates band together to protect not just their businesses, but the heart of Napa’s wine identity. The discussion explored how music, wine, and lifestyle connect through community, creativity, and personal storytelling—reminding us why the fight for land and authenticity matters. If you’re passionate about wine, small business, or property rights, this story is a must-listen. It’s about more than wine—it’s about preserving culture, family, and the American entrepreneurial spirit. For more information about Hoopes Vineyard click the link! Follow Hoopes Vineyard on IG! Follow Pacific Legal Foundation on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. Go to the-vines.com and use code BLACKWINEGUY to unlock member pricing and join their community for just $395, plus get a case of wines they make with their partners. (U.S. addresses only.) 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another episode of Beats Vines & Life! Today, we're diving deep into music, wine, and lifestyle with a special guest who embodies the spirit of innovation and tradition in Napa Valley: Elton Slone, President, CEO, and Managing Partner at Robert Craig Winery. From his humble roots in small-town Indiana to helming one of Napa's premier mountain Cabernet producers, Elton brings not just expertise in winemaking but also infectious storytelling and a unique perspective on wine culture. We’ll explore Elton’s journey through the world of wine—from college days experimenting with affordable bottles and working in restaurants, to learning under legends of Napa and building a career that honors terroir, sustainability, and genuine connection. Along the way, you’ll hear tales of celebrity encounters, musical icons, and the challenges of keeping authenticity alive in a changing industry. Grab a glass and join us as we uncork not just great wine, but the stories and philosophies that shape this vibrant lifestyle. You’re in for conversations about the importance of site expression, the evolution of the wine business, lessons in sustainability, and, of course, plenty of laughs and music references. Let’s welcome Elton Slone to Beats Vines & Life! For more information about Robert Craig Winery click the link! Follow Robert Craig Winery on IG! Follow Elton on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. Go to the-vines.com and use code BLACKWINEGUY to unlock member pricing and join their community for just $395, plus get a case of wines they make with their partners. (U.S. addresses only.) 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Beats Vines & Life. In this special episode, MJ Towler sits down with Wright Lassiter and his wife, Cathy Lassiter—a dynamic couple whose journey blends music, culture, and the art of living well. Wright Lassiter, one of the nation's top healthcare leaders, and Cathy, a lifelong community advocate and self-described CEO of the family, share how their passions for travel, culture, and wine have led them to create Lassiter Family Vineyards. Get ready to hear the remarkable story behind their entry into the world of boutique winemaking, their love for champagne breakfasts, their deep roots in music-rich communities, and the lifestyle strategies that keep their family thriving. From building a world-class wine collection to crafting meaningful experiences around the table, this episode serves up inspiration, wit, and a taste of what it means to fuse success with soulful living. For more information about Lassiter Family Vineyards click the link! Follow Lassiter Family Vineyards on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. Go to the-vines.com and use code BLACKWINEGUY to unlock member pricing and join their community for just $395, plus get a case of wines they make with their partners. (U.S. addresses only.) 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another episode of Beats, Vines & Life! Today, MJ sits down with Dave Wanek, a multifaceted leader whose journey winds from a small Nebraska town to the heart of Silicon Valley and, eventually, the vineyards of Walla Walla. As the co-founder of Cimento and a principal at Walla Walla Land Company, Dave brings decades of experience in technology investment and an unwavering commitment to crafting premium wines. In this episode, we uncork Dave’s story—diving into his Midwestern roots, ascent in the world of venture capital, and what inspired him to plant his flag in the Rocks District, a unique viticultural area renowned for its terroir-driven wines. We’ll learn about his early influences, the meticulous philosophy behind farming and wine production, and how he’s blending business innovation with a passion for exquisite wine and sustainable stewardship. Whether you’re a music lover, a wine aficionado, or fascinated by dynamic lifestyles, this conversation delivers a full-bodied exploration of entrepreneurship, community, and the finer things in life. So pour yourself a glass and join us for a journey from Beats, to Vines, to Life! For more information about Cimento Wines click the link! Follow Cimento Wines on IG! Follow Walla Walla Land Co. on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world’s most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town. Go to the-vines.com and use code BLACKWINEGUY to unlock member pricing and join their community for just $395, plus get a case of wines they make with their partners. (U.S. addresses only.) 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Beats, Vines & Life! In today’s episode, host Speaker A sits down with Brian Lau—entrepreneur, lifelong collector, and founder of One More Time Watches. Brian’s passion for luxury watches has evolved into a booming business rooted in transparency and education, shaped by his expertise in both cybersecurity and high-stakes business development. But this conversation is more than just about timepieces. Brian and Speaker A dive into the lifestyle of collecting—trading stories about rare whiskey, epic wine finds, and the art of building a collection, whether it’s on your wrist or in your cellar. If you’ve ever been curious about the parallels between luxury watches and cult wines, the world of high-value spirits, or just want to hear what makes a true “guy’s guy” tick, you’re in the right place. Get ready for a deep-dive into passion, provenance, and the pursuit of the ultimate collectible. For more information about 1 More Time Watches click the link! Follow 1 More Time on IG! Follow Brian on IG! ____________________________________________________________ Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!  Are you a collector who takes wine seriously? The Genesis tier of Club dVin is closing permanently on April 11, 2026. Click here to become a lifetime member. Again, the founding circle closes on April 11. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Go to the-vines.com and use code BLACKWINEGUY to unlock member pricing and join their community for just $395, plus get a case of wines they make with their partners. (U.S. addresses only.) 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 Follow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Sign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.