Be Better Guys

Fathers and Grads get the month of June to celebrate and bask in the glow of their achievements. Then on Monday, they either need to get back to work or find a job—there’s no free lunch in this town, pal. But, we have a few things that will make the entry (or re-entry) into the work world more bearable.

Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve: A few years ago, Dalmore Cigar Malt was a regular part of my single-malt repertoire. Dalmore is the sort of Highland style scotch I prefer. The main difference between the Cigar Malt, marketed near the end of the cigar boom of early 2000, and the traditional 12-year was the smoke and additional age (A 12-14-year­old scotch aged in sherry casks). A name change to Gran Reserve (and substantial increase in price) has given the line a distinct boost. It’s still a heady scotch with touches of cocoa and vanilla, a spicy nose and undertone, and a sweet finish. At 88 proof, it’s not too hard, but provides a nice buzz. While I question the price, $125, it’s a good scotch for Dad or the soon-to-be J.D. or M.D.

-Brian Joyner

Jardin du Poète: For the traditional dad that describe their fragrance preference as fresh, look no further that Eau d’Italie’s Jardin du Poète. Translated as “The Poets Garden” it’s a bright, effervescent fragrance inspired by Sicily. Balanced with both floral and citrus notes, it won’t fade quickly and it’s ideal for the hot and humid days to come. It contains notes of Bitter Orange, Grapefruit, Basil, Angelica, Helicrysum, Pink Pepper, Cypress, Vetiver and Musk. 3.4oz Eau de Toilette – $140 at Aedes de Venustas.

A*Men Pure Havane: For the modern dad (or recent grad), who celebrates his individuality by attention to detail, Thierry Mugler’s limited edition A*Men Pure Havane would be a nice addition to his arsenal. Inspired by the craftsmanship that goes into producing fine Cuban cigars, it’s a woody, masculine scent that’s revolves around a honeyed tobacco accord. Don’t worry, he won’t smell like he came out of a cigar bar, not that there’s anything wrong with that. But he will have an elegant, sophisticated edge. You’ve been warned. A*Men Pure Havane contains notes of Fresh Tobacco Leaves, Honey Tobacco Accord, Vanilla notes, Patchouli and Bitter Cacao. 3.4 fl. Oz Eau de Toilette – $80 Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s and www.thierrymugler.com

-Barney Bishop for Fragrant Moments

V-MODA: Crossfade LP: So Junior has decided to take a bit of time off between college and the working world to travel the globe as a DJ–DJ Hot Mess (Hey! it could happen). Wanting to be supportive (at least until the student loans kick in), you get him a useful tool of the trade. Developed by renowned artists, DJs and producers, the V-Moda Crossfade LP are fashionable and luxurious over-ear headphones deliver juicy sound. Available in White Pearl, Phantom Chrome, Gunmetal Black, Nero, and Rouge, these headphones will give him the look of a pro, even if he has no skills. $140 at retailers nationwide.

-BJ

Shirts by Rufus Apparel: A BBG favorite, the Rufus Apparel line of shirts offers with style, panache, and a touch of wit. For the Dad that’s tired of button downs or the grad looking for a couple of signature pieces for his wardrobe, Rufus shirts provide the sort of style every cool guy wants to have. For further incentive, Rufus is offering 40% off your entire order when you order using the code “Padre.” Plus you get a set of signature Rufus silk Knotz.

-BJ

iPad2 32Gb w/ Wi-Fi: Last year, we suggested the iPad as a gift for grads and dads, so to repeat seems to be cheating. We did a quick analysis of other tablets and here’s what we came back with: Android tablets, like the Motorola Xoom with the Honeycomb OS are close to the iPad2. Everything else is a distant third. They new iPad has longer battery life, two cameras (now with video chat capability), improved processor speed, and the ever-popular 3G for both Verizon and AT&T. At $599, it’s cheaper than most laptops and allows you to come to grips with the fact that you don’t really do work at home. But you could.

-BJ

In the amazing world of the Interwebz, you can order this stuff today and get it before Sunday. You know, June 19. . . Father’s Day? But hurry, don’t let it get too late.