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Beats Vines and Life: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Marvin J. Towler
MJ Towler aka the Black Wine Guy went from a totally obsessed wine newbie to the world's first-ever African-American fine and rare wine auctioneer in less than 3 years. These days, he is a podcaster and journalist who travels the globe, having conversations with the movers, shakers, and disruptors in the worlds of food, wine, music, and more. This show pairs his passion for complex, interesting wines with complex, interesting guests. These are deep thinkers and Mavericks talking about their passions, life lessons, and inspirations - while drinking a bottle of something listeners will definitely want to savor for themselves. Sit back, listen, learn, and laugh. This is Beats Vines and Life. For more information and exclusive content, go to beatsvinesandlife.com Follow MJ on IG@blackwineguy@beatsvinesandlife Podcast produced by Marvin J. Towler Hosted on Ac
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- 1 weeks ago1h 29m
Edith Mattiuzzo aka “Miss BBQ Italy” Fuses Fashion, Food, and Fire for a New Take on Barbecue
On this episode of Beats Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down with Edith Mattiuzzo, aka Miss BBQ Italy. They explore how an Italian fashion industry veteran launched a new career in barbecue, what happens when cultures and flavors mix on and off the grill, and how community, curiosity, and a love of learning fuel growth in life and business.The discussion covered how regional Italian food and wine culture shaped Edith’s approach to barbecue, the challenges and surprises of competing on Food Network’s Barbecue Brawl, and the inventive fusion of Italian ingredients with American and Argentinian grilling techniques. Edith’s story is one of resilience, curiosity, and the relentless pursuit of flavor—making her an ideal guest for those who savor the philosophy and culture of Gen X, music, movies, and the good life, with a glass of wine in hand and a plate of smoked meats nearby.Follow Edith on IG!For more information about Pretty Drum Smokers click the link!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!Help me become the next Top Host.I'm competing in Top Host, a public-vote competition for a chance at a podcast of my own. After six years of Beats, Vines & Life, built on one question (who would I like to share a bottle of wine with?), I'd love your vote.Here's how it works:- You get one free vote every 24 hours. Verify with Facebook or SMS, then vote.- Donations are optional and earn extra votes. A portion of the money raised supports the Ryan Seacrest Foundation.- The competition moves round by round, so please come back and vote daily.Vote for me here: https://tophost.org/2026/marvin-john-towlerGrenache 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFestSubscribe 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- 3 weeks ago1h 32m
Leveling Up in Wine: Peter Yeung Talks Napa, Luxury Wine Marketing, and Shaping Wente’s Legacy
On this episode of Beats Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down with Peter Yeung—a strategic wine business leader, author of Luxury Wine Marketing, and co-host of the Ex-Château podcast. From his roots in Orange County to the boardrooms of McKinsey to the vineyards of Wente Family Estates, Peter shares his unique journey through immigrant hustle, Silicon Valley innovation, and high-stakes wine strategy.Together, they dive deep into Gen X culture, the changing landscape of wine, and how curiosity and storytelling fuel both business and lifestyle—from the pricing secrets behind luxury wine to the musical moments that define their generation. Listen in for a candid, thought-provoking conversation blending business wisdom, personal stories, music, and an honest look at the evolution—and future—of California wine.Follow Peter on IG!Follow Wente Family Vineyards on IG!For more information about Luxury Wine Marketing click the link!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!Help me become the next Top Host.I'm competing in Top Host, a public-vote competition for a chance to host my own podcast on iHeart Radio. After six years of Beats, Vines & Life, built on one question (who would I like to share a bottle of wine with?), I'd love your vote.Here's how it works:- You get one free vote every 24 hours. Verify with Facebook or SMS, then vote.- Donations are optional and earn extra votes. A portion of the money raised supports the Ryan Seacrest Foundation.- The competition moves round by round, so please come back and vote daily.Vote for me here: https://tophost.org/2026/marvin-john-towlerGrenache 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFestSubscribe 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Sep 28, 20261h 33m
Exploring Wine’s Human Side: Ray Isle on Authenticity, Storytelling, and the Soul of Wine
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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFestSubscribe 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeFollow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IGSign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Sep 14, 20261h 52m
From Bartenders to Podcast Pioneers: The Restaurant Guys’ Journey Through Cocktales, Wine and Life
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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFestSubscribe 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeFollow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IGSign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Aug 31, 20261h 27m
The Great American Wine Tour aka The Gospel of Keith Beavers
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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeFollow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IGSign up for Totally Biased Wine ReviewsThank 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Aug 17, 20261h 36m
From Football to Fine Wine: How an Injury Redirected Elia Pellegrini into Tuscan Winemaking
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.comSubscribe 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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeFollow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IGSign up for Totally Biased Wine ReviewsThank 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 GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Aug 3, 20261h 43m
Exploring Gen X Culture, Wine, and Filmmaking with Christopher McGilvray of Nomadic Bear Productions
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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeFollow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IGSign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Jul 20, 20262h 1m
Master Sommelier Vinny Morrow on Wine, Leadership and Hospitality Excellence
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.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeFollow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IGSign up for Totally Biased Wine Reviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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About Beats Vines and Life
MJ Towler aka the Black Wine Guy went from a totally obsessed wine newbie to the world's first-ever African-American fine and rare wine auctioneer in less than 3 years. These days, he is a podcaster and journalist who travels the globe, having conversations with the movers, shakers, and disruptors in the worlds of food, wine, music, and more. This show pairs his passion for complex, interesting wines with complex, interesting guests. These are deep thinkers and Mavericks talking about their passions, life lessons, and inspirations - while drinking a bottle of something listeners will definitely want to savor for themselves. Sit back, listen, learn, and laugh. This is Beats Vines and Life. For more information and exclusive content, go to beatsvinesandlife.com Follow MJ on IG@blackwineguy@beatsvinesandlife Podcast produced by Marvin J. Towler Hosted on Ac
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Frequently Asked Questions
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It's a free AI-powered email that summarizes new episodes of Beats Vines and Life as soon as they're published. You get the key takeaways, notable quotes, and links & mentions — all in a quick read.
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