STRAIGHT UP

Everything of interest to the modern bourbon lover.

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.

Cigar 101: How to Light Up in Style

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:

Melanie Miller and Casey Hyland of Hyland Miller glass studio in Kentucky

Meet 4 Honestly Awesome Kentucky Craftspeople

Melanie Miller and Casey Hyland of Hyland Miller glass studio in Kentucky

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.

The Modern Man’s Guide to Labor Day Party Greatness

Some of life’s best memories come from sitting down and breaking bread together. With Labor Day on the horizon, it’s time to make one more memory, with a bourbon-infused summer send-off executed in grand Ezra Brooks style.

A little food, a little drink, some close friends — as long as you have Ezra Brooks bourbon on hand, you have all the ingredients of a summer sayonara you won’t forget.

5 Times Honesty Isn’t the Best Policy

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.

5 Defining Characteristics of the Modern Gentleman

Man's hand holding a glass of whiskey

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.

How to Stock Your Home Bar

When you’ve got a bottle (or two) of Ezra Brooks bourbon, it may feel like that’s all you’ll ever need. But don’t discount the pleasure of owning a perfectly stocked home bar, one where all the tools and gadgets necessary to mix a cool cocktail are at the ready.

Whether you’re building your bar from scratch or supplementing the basics (and by basics, we mean that shot-glass collection you amassed in college), this is what you’ll need.

5 Non-Bourbon Lifestyle Essentials for the Modern Man

Leather boots, a style essential for the modern gentleman

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.

5 Classic Cocktails Every Gentleman Should Master

Sure, Ezra Brooks bourbon more than holds its own when served neat or on the rocks. But it also provides an honest cocktail base. To truly call yourself an Ezra Brooks connoisseur, take the time to master these five classic whiskey drinks, which any gentleman worth his salt should know how to make.