Marvin John "MJ" Towler, is a distinguished figure in the wine industry, celebrated for his extensive experience and engaging approach to wine education. MJ began his wine journey in 1997 at Acker Wines in New York City. By April 2000, he made history as the first African-American fine and rare wine auctioneer during Acker's $1.5 million spring auction at the Helmsley Park Lane Hotel. His career spans various facets of the wine business, including roles in retail, wholesale, auctions, and consulting. Notably, he served as Assistant Wine Director at Sparrow Wine & Liquor Co. in Hoboken, New Jersey, and later as the retail store manager and sommelier at the Montecito Wine Bistro in Santa Barbara, California. In October 2020, MJ launched "The Black Wine Guy Experience" podcast, which quickly ascended into the Top 20 in Apple's food category. The podcast features candid conversations with notable figures in the food and wine industry, reflecting MJ's unique ability to demystify wine in an approachable and entertaining manner. His contributions have earned him recognition in Imbibe's 2023 Imbibe 75 and Wine Enthusiast's Future 40 list of leading tastemakers and innovators.
