STRAIGHT UP

Everything of interest to the modern bourbon lover.

Modern gentleman

What Wins in Poker

Poker is a gentleman’s — or woman’s — game, so you’re probably not going to need to put a six-shooter on the table like in an old Western movie. But just so no misunderstandings arise, especially if you’re playing in your first friendly low-stakes game, it does help to know which hands beat other hands, as well as a few other handy tips. Like the fact that Ezra Brooks bourbon makes a great wingman.

5 Ezra-Approved Swim Trunks for the Modern Gentleman

Despite the planet’s best efforts, summer is still on its way. It’s too soon to tell if you’ll be lounging poolside or kicking back in a backyard kiddie pool, but either way, you’re going to need a stylish pair of swim trunks in which to laze away the sunny days. Here are five that Ezra recommends.

A Modern Man’s Tutorial on How to Sew a Button

You’re just about to head out the door when a button pops off your shirt. Now what? Sure, you could just change shirts, but whether you take care of it now or later, knowing how to sew on a button is one of those essential life-skills that every man should know how to do. And sometimes, you just really want to wear that shirt.

5 Stylish Ezra-Approved Sneakers Under $100

Many people maintain that you can judge a man by his shoes — but not every day calls for your classiest kicks.

The modern man needs a pair of sneakers that are effortlessly cool while still being kind on your feet — you’re running with a busy schedule, after all. And to help keep that budget in check, they should also be under $100. Here are five that Ezra recommends.

3 Bourbon-Themed Date Ideas to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

If you’re coupled up, then you can’t ignore Valentine’s Day. But avoid the pitfalls of a lazy date and plan something your bourbon-loving partner will actually look forward to doing (or consuming).

Here are three can’t-fail ideas for your bourbon babe.

French press coffee

5 Things in Life Worth the Extra Effort

French press coffee

In our high-speed, short-take, 140-character world, we’ve put cutting corners on a pedestal. We plunge in. Don’t read instructions. Make an early exit. Honestly, we’re lucky when we don’t wind up a winner of the Darwin Awards.

If you’ve read this far, you’ve probably figured out that we’re going to tell you take your foot off the pedal. We’re going to have the audacity to assert that, sometimes, easy isn’t always better. Even a guy like gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson knew that “anything worth doing is worth doing right.”

Omega Speedmaster 5

5 Ezra-Approved Men’s Watches for Any Situation

Omega Speedmaster 5

When it comes to watches, there’s no lack of choice, and men can covet a variety of watches for a variety of situations. It is our main form of jewelry, after all.

Styles are seemingly infinite, and prices range from dirt cheap to laughably off the charts. To wit: You can have a Patek Philippe 5016R Minute Repeater Tourbillion Perpetual Calendar Retrograde in rose gold on a black leather strap and a black dial for a neat $650,000.

We’ve come up with five excellent timepieces that work for different purposes and won’t require a bank loan to strap onto your wrist. Prices are approximate.

Holiday Dinner Party

The Modern Man’s Holiday Etiquette Guide

Holiday Dinner Party

You’re staring down the gauntlet of holiday party invites, from work and charity shindigs to friend gatherings to maybe even a fancy dinner or two.

How can you be the guest that everyone wants on their list? Let us help.

Ezra Brooks Holiday Cocktail Roundup

3 Bourbon Cocktails for Spreading Holiday Cheer

The holidays are upon us, and with that comes parties galore. All good hosts have a few special cocktails up their sleeve. The following three sippers cover all your needs — from a warm and cozy hot toddy and season-appropriate bourbon-spiked cider to a festive sparkling bourbon drink perfect for ringing in the new year. …

Man grooming his beard

13 Grooming Essentials Every Man Needs

Man grooming his beard

There was a time when a man could head out for a potential overnighter with nothing but a toothbrush in his pocket. If that.

We know better now. Among other things, we’re aware of the dire effects of excessive sun exposure. The appeal of the leathery Marlboro Man look is long gone, and for men who want to maintain a healthy — not to mention handsome — exterior, a few grooming essentials are in order.