When looking for an American success story, it doesn’t get more authentic than that of Coleen and Rick Holtz. Despite a series of tragic events, including almost losing their home, the resilient couple rebounded by starting a monogramming business in their garage.
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In 35 B.C., the great poet Horace speculated in his XIXth Epistle, “… no poems can please long, nor live, which are written by water-drinkers.” William Faulkner took it a step further: “Civilization begins with distillation.”
While Horace preceded the creation of bourbon, Faulkner was well-steeped in the knowledge. He mentioned whiskey frequently in his novels, going so far as to write, “There is no such thing as bad whiskey. Some whiskeys just happen to be better than others.” Noir mystery author Raymond Chandler mirrored the line: “There is no bad whiskey. There are only some whiskeys that aren’t as good as others.”
Many of the manly writers of the first half of the 20th century were bourbon aficionados. Think Hemingway: “Never delay kissing a pretty girl or opening a bottle of whiskey.” Or F. Scott Fitzgerald in The Great Gatsby. Said Daisy to her husband, “‘Open the whiskey, Tom,’ she ordered, ‘and I’ll make you a mint julep. Then you won’t seem so stupid to yourself.’”
But references to bourbon run throughout the literary canon. Here are a few more well-read morsels to skillfully slip into your next sipping session with friends:
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Even without all the candy hearts, flower displays, and jewelry commercials, a modern gentleman wouldn’t forget Valentine’s Day. He knows to honor his significant other on the most romantic day of the year. Even if the holiday feels a little contrived, an authentic celebration of love never is.
If you’re looking for some V-Day inspo, here are five Ezra Brooks-approved ways show the love.
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A new year is a new start, and it’s helpful to write down your goals for the months ahead. Whether you’re looking to make big or small changes, take a moment this January to reflect on what’s important to you and how you’re going to make it happen.
Don’t know where to start? Let us provide a few prompts, and then go make 2019 your best year yet.
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The modern gentleman is authentic, sophisticated, and stylish. He also possesses impeccable manners. Although these are wonderful qualities to have, they also make him nearly impossible to shop for.
But there are a few unique gifts out there that he will not only appreciate, but also cherish.
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Whiskey and cigars — it’s a pairing right up there in the manly pantheon with spaghetti and meatballs, bread and butter, beer and pizza. But while enjoying cigars can be just a basic satisfaction, the various shapes, styles, flavors, and rituals involved can also be as bewildering as trying as to understand the rules of cricket.
If you’re new to the game, here are some basics that will add to your gentlemanly poise:
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At Ezra Brooks, we’re into all things handcrafted — so much so that we’re launching a contest this fall to celebrate them. Although we can’t give away too many details right now, we can tell you that the winners will score some amazing creations from the four artisans below, all of whom call Kentucky home, just like we do.
Keep an eye out for updates on the Honestly Handcrafted contest. (If you sign up to for Ezra Brooks emails, you’ll be the first to know when it starts.) In the meantime, read all about these awesome American craftspeople.
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A hallmark of a modern gentleman is that he never lies. Every now and then, though, he might encounter a sticky situation where the truth needs to be bent ever so slightly. Put another way: a situation where a little white lie might be the best way out.
Though rare, these moments do occur, so it’s best to be prepared. Here’s how to navigate five common scenarios with grace.
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The modern gentleman is never less than his authentic self and always remembers his manners. While others may have let these basics slide, the honest among us strive to set an example for others by keeping these practices alive. These are things the modern gentleman is always sure to do.
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5 Defining Characteristics of the Modern GentlemanRead Story
To be a master at life, you first need to master your personal effects. Knowing “your brand” of bourbon whiskey is only one component; there are a few other everyday items that every true gentleman should collect.
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5 Non-Bourbon Lifestyle Essentials for the Modern ManRead Story