by Marvin J. Towler
<p>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. </p><br><p>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.</p><p> </p><p>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. </p><br><p>Sit back, listen, learn, and laugh. This is Beats Vines and Life. </p><br><p>For more information and exclusive content, go to beatsvinesandlife.com </p><p>Follow MJ on IG</p><p>@blackwineguy</p><p>@beatsvinesandlife</p><p> </p><p>Podcast produced by Marvin J. Towler</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
10/20/2020
Email Addresses
1 available
Phone Numbers
0 available
April 28, 2025
<p>Before we dive into today’s episode, I want to take a moment to acknowledge a significant event that has touched millions around the world. Earlier this week, we learned of the passing of Pope Francis. His leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to faith and service left an indelible mark not only on the Catholic Church but also on the global community. Whether you are a person of faith or simply someone who values the impact of a life dedicated to service, his legacy reminds us of the power of humility, hope, and unity. Our thoughts are with all those mourning this loss. May he rest in peace.</p><br><p>Welcome back to Beats, Vines & Life! In this episode, host MJ Towler is joined once again by the charismatic Bobby Rallo—a seasoned restaurateur, chef, and passionate Italian wine critic with deep roots in Italian food and culture. </p><br><p>From childhood memories of simmering garlic and baking bread to adventures in some of Italy's most iconic vineyards. Bobby shares stories of his family's culinary legacy, travel tales with his daughter Stella, and reflections on how Italian wine and food are inextricably linked.</p><br><p>This lively conversation takes listeners on a tour through the heart of Italian wine country, exploring regions like Marche, Umbria, Lazio, and, of course, Tuscany.</p><p> </p><p>Expect a blend of vivid wine tasting notes, behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the restaurant world, and plenty of laughs as MJ and Bobby dig into everything from the rise of Super Tuscans to the quirks of American wine marketing.</p><br><p>Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or just looking to expand your palate, you’ll love this journey through Italy’s central vineyards—served with side dishes of history, family, and a slice of real-life food and wine culture. </p><br><p>Grab your glass and join the ride!</p><br><p>A Massive THANK YOU to BOBBY RALLO!!! </p><br><p>For more information about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/rallo-hospitality/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rallo Hospitality</a> click the link!!</p><br><p>Follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/birravino/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Birravino</a> on IG!</p><p>Follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bobrallo/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bobby</a> on IG!</p><br><p>____________________________________________________________</p><p>Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! </p><br><p>Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.</p><br><p>For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at <a href="https://blackwineguy.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">blackwineguy.com</a></p><p>Follow MJ<a href="https://www.instagram.com/blackwineguy/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @blackwineguy</a></p><p>Follow Beats Vines and Life <a href="https://www.instagram.com/beatsvinesandlife/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@beatsvinesandlife</a></p><br><p><strong>Thank you to our sponsor,</strong> <strong>The Best Shake Ever</strong>. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.</p><br><p>For more information, go to <a href="https://thebestshakeever.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Best Shake Ever</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
April 21, 2025
<p>On this episode of Beats Vines & Life, host MJ Towler welcomes Eric Titus, general manager and vineyard operations manager at Titus Vineyards. </p><p>With deep roots in Napa Valley's wine country, Eric shares the fascinating story of his family's legacy—from growing up in Sonoma with his three brothers, to earning his doctorate in biology, and working around the world as a marine biologist and environmental consultant before coming home to join the family business.</p><br><p>They reminisce about rural childhood adventures, family traditions, and the evolution of Sonoma and Napa from small towns to world-renowned wine destinations. </p><p>Eric drops knowledge on the art of winemaking, from the secret splash of Viognier in their Sauvignon Blanc to his mission of reviving Merlot and championing classic varietals like Petite Verdot and Zinfandel.</p><br><p>But this isn’t just a podcast about wine—it’s a conversation about life paths, family values, history, and all the unexpected turns that can bring someone back to their roots. </p><p>Whether you’re a passionate wine lover, a fan of rich storytelling, or just here for the laughs, you’ll appreciate this deep and entertaining dive into the world of wine, Napa Valley culture, and what it means to keep tradition alive in a changing world.</p><br><p>Pour yourself a glass as Eric and MJ dig into multi-generational tales of migration, resilience, and entrepreneurship that shaped Titus Vineyards. </p><br><p>A Massive THANK YOU to ERIC TITUS!!! </p><br><p>For more information about <a href="https://www.titusvineyards.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Titus Vineyards</a> click the link!!</p><br><p>Follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/titus_vineyards/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Titus Vineyards</a> on IG!</p><p>____________________________________________________________</p><p>Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! </p><br><p>Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.</p><br><p>For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at <a href="https://blackwineguy.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">blackwineguy.com</a></p><p>Follow MJ<a href="https://www.instagram.com/blackwineguy/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @blackwineguy</a></p><p>Follow Beats Vines and Life <a href="https://www.instagram.com/beatsvinesandlife/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@beatsvinesandlife</a></p><br><p><strong>Thank you to our sponsor,</strong> <strong>The Best Shake Ever</strong>. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.</p><p>For more information, go to <a href="https://thebestshakeever.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Best Shake Ever</a></p><br><p><br></p><br><p><br></p><p>____________________________________________________________</p><p>Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! </p><br><p>Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.</p><br><p>For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at <a href="https://blackwineguy.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">blackwineguy.com</a></p><br><p>Follow MJ<a href="https://www.instagram.com/blackwineguy/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @blackwineguy</a></p><p>Follow Beats Vines and Life <a href="https://www.instagram.com/beatsvinesandlife/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@beatsvinesandlife</a></p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
April 14, 2025
<p>Welcome back to another captivating episode of Beats, Vines & Life. In today's discussion, MJ Towler is joined once again by the seasoned restaurateur, chef, and wine critic Bobby Rallo. </p><br><p>In this episode, they embark on a delightful exploration of Italian wine and cuisine, focusing on the rich history and vibrant flavors of the islands of Sicily, Sardinia, and Ischia. </p><br><p>Bobby shares his deep-rooted passion for these regions, discussing the unique varietals and the legacy of wine production. </p><br><p>Between witty banter and insightful commentary, you'll uncover the magic behind iconic wines like Nero d'Avola, Norello Mascalese, and Vermentino. </p><br><p>Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, this episode promises to immerse you in the world of Italian grapes and the art of enjoying wine with good company. </p><br><p>So, pour yourself a glass and join us as we journey through Italy's wine-rich landscapes. Cheers!</p><br><p>A Massive THANK YOU to BOBBY RALLO!!! </p><br><p>For more information about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/rallo-hospitality/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rallo Hospitality</a> click the link!!</p><br><p>Follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/birravino/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Birravino</a> on IG!</p><p>Follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bobrallo/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bobby</a> on IG!</p><br><p>____________________________________________________________</p><p>Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! </p><br><p>Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.</p><br><p>For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at <a href="https://blackwineguy.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">blackwineguy.com</a></p><p>Follow MJ<a href="https://www.instagram.com/blackwineguy/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @blackwineguy</a></p><p>Follow Beats Vines and Life <a href="https://www.instagram.com/beatsvinesandlife/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@beatsvinesandlife</a></p><br><p><strong>Thank you to our sponsor,</strong> <strong>The Best Shake Ever</strong>. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.</p><br><p>For more information, go to <a href="https://thebestshakeever.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Best Shake Ever</a></p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
SOMM TV
VinePair
Levi Dalton
GuildSomm
Elizabeth Schneider
The Wine Makers
Wine Enthusiast Magazine
VinePair
Freakonomics Radio + Stitcher
Hidden Brain, Shankar Vedantam
Susie and Peter, Masters of Wine
NPR
The New York Times
NPR
Pushkin Industries
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