STRAIGHT UP

Everything of interest to the modern bourbon lover.
Whiskey aperitif

A Whiskey-Lover’s Guide to Aperitifs

Whiskey aperitif

Looking for a fresh way to enjoy your whiskey? Then try it in an aperitif. The centuries-old tradition of pre-dinner cocktails has seen a major revival in recent years. There’s something inherently civilized about setting aside time to sip a light, sophisticated drink before you sit down to dinner.

Ezra Brooks Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Old Ezra, and Straight Rye

Which Ezra Brooks Bourbon Are You?

Ezra Brooks Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Old Ezra, and Straight Rye

When it comes to Ezra Brooks, the question is not whether this acclaimed line of bourbons is something you’d like — but rather, which of the Ezra Brooks bourbons would you like the most?

Normal Brand duffle

Ezra-Approved Duffle Bags Made in the USA

Normal Brand duffle

Every modern gentleman knows the importance of seeing the world, but it’s hard to globe-trot without a good duffle bag. These three stand out for their American craftsmanship, because you should never have to sacrifice style or longevity.

Cigar holder from Holtz Leather Co.

Honestly Good Stuff: Holtz Leather Company

Cigar holder from Holtz Leather Co.

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.

Ezra Brooks bourbon with stack of books

Literature’s Great Bourbon Moments

Ezra Brooks bourbon with stack of books

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:

Ezra Brooks bourbon with hearts for Valentine's Day

The Modern Gentleman’s Guide to Valentine’s Day

Ezra Brooks bourbon with hearts for Valentine's Day

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.

A bottle of Old Ezra and a glass of bourbon sitting next to a typewriter

The Modern Man’s List of New Year’s Resolutions

A bottle of Old Ezra and a glass of bourbon sitting next to a typewriter

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.

A Holiday Gift Guide for the Modern Gentleman

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.

How to Make a Bourbon-Glazed Turkey

If there’s one thing a modern man should know how to do, it’s make a turkey for holiday entertaining. You can prove your kitchen prowess by serving this bourbon-glazed turkey for Thanksgiving or any other holiday dinner — forever sealing your fate as master of the bird.

If you’re feeling plucky, you can spatchcock* your turkey before roasting. Yeah, we went there.

Beyond-Basic Whiskey Accessories for the Modern Man

Your home bar may be stocked with the basics — and of course that includes a bottle (or two) of Ezra Brooks — but there are so many accessories out there that elevate your drinking experience.

It’s even better when you amass items with a history, ones that are handcrafted by artisans who are just as dedicated to quality as you are. Read on to see what you’ll need.