1. 1963 Aston Martin DB5

The Bond Car

Immortalized by James Bond in « Goldfinger », the DB5 embodies British luxury and elegance. With its sleek lines and roaring engine, this masterpiece is more than a car; it’s a piece of cinematic and automotive history.

2. 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing

Wings of Desire

Renowned for its distinctive gullwing doors, the 300SL is a symphony of German engineering and style. Driving it is akin to flying without leaving the ground.

3. 1961 Jaguar E-Type

The Enchanter from England

Described by Enzo Ferrari as « the most beautiful car ever made, » the E-Type’s sensuous curves and powerful performance make it a must-drive for any classic car aficionado.

4. 1966 Shelby Cobra 427

American Muscle Personified

Crafted by the legendary Carroll Shelby, the Cobra 427 is a blend of British design and American power. Its thunderous roar is music to the ears of any purist.

5. 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS

German Precision, Timeless Appeal

The Carrera RS, with its ducktail spoiler and distinct livery, is the epitome of Porsche’s racing heritage and design prowess.

6. 1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS

Heartbeat of America

Synonymous with American muscle, the Camaro SS offers raw power coupled with classic coupe styling. It’s a reminder of a golden era of automotive craftsmanship.

7. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4

The Italian Stallion

A masterpiece from Maranello, the 275 GTB/4 is a blend of aggressive styling and sublime performance. Its V12 engine’s purr is a siren song for car enthusiasts.

8. 1966 LAMBORGHINI MIURA

THE BIRTH OF THE SUPERCAR

Often touted as the pioneer of supercars, the Miura’s arresting beauty and mid-engine design marked a revolution in automotive artistry. Its sensual curves paired with a V12 symphony makes it an unforgettable ride, intertwining Italian passion with groundbreaking innovation.

9. 1970 LANCIA STRATOS ZERO

THE FUTURISTIC FANTASY

With its spaceship-like design and razor-sharp edges, the Lancia Stratos Zero wasn’t just ahead of its time – it was from another dimension. A radical prototype that never saw production, driving the Stratos Zero is a dive into a future that never was.

10. 1974 LAMBORGHINI COUNTACH LP400

THE WEDGE WONDER

Redefining supercar design for decades to come, the Lamborghini Countach LP400, with its angular lines, scissor doors, and a roaring V12 engine, epitomizes the audacious spirit of the 70s and 80s automotive world. It’s a poster car, a dream car, and a bold statement of what Lamborghini represented – pure, unadulterated passion and innovation. Driving a Countach isn’t just about speed; it’s about experiencing a milestone in car design and engineering.

The golden age of cocktail-making may harken back to the Roaring Twenties and the Mad Men era of the sixties, but classic drinks are far from forgotten. Today, as the world speeds up, many yearn for the simplicity and sophistication of yesteryears. For the modern man, old-time cocktails embody class, tradition, and a connection to a bygone era of style. Let’s journey back in time and rediscover some of these classic concoctions.

The Old Fashioned

Timeless Appeal: Considered by many to be the original cocktail, the Old Fashioned has a robust flavor profile, defined by its perfect balance of sweet and bitter.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Bourbon or Rye whiskey
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 sugar cube
• Few dashes plain water

Method: Muddle sugar, bitters, and water in a glass. Add ice, pour in the whiskey, and gently stir. Garnish with an orange twist and cherry.

Martini

Iconic Elegance: Synonymous with suave figures like James Bond, the Martini is the quintessential cocktail of style and grace.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 oz Gin or Vodka
• 0.5 oz Dry vermouth

Method: Pour ingredients into a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir well, strain into a chilled martini glass, and garnish with an olive or lemon twist.

Manhattan

Urban Sophistication: Hailing from the Big Apple, the Manhattan is a testament to the hustle and bustle of city life.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Rye whiskey
• 1 oz Sweet red vermouth
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters

Method: Stir ingredients over ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and garnish with a cherry.

Sidecar

European Flair: With roots in Paris, the Sidecar is a perfect blend of citrus and spirit, embodying European sophistication.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Cognac
• 0.75 oz Lemon juice
• 0.75 oz Triple sec

Method: Shake ingredients with ice, strain into a sugar-rimmed cocktail glass, and garnish with a lemon twist.

Mint Julep

Southern Comfort: Originating from the American South, the Mint Julep is a refreshing summer staple.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 oz Bourbon
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• 0.5 oz Simple syrup

Method: Muddle mint leaves and syrup in a glass, add bourbon and fill with crushed ice. Stir until the glass frosts. Top with more ice and garnish with a mint sprig.

The Renaissance of the Classic Cocktail

Modern bars and lounges are revisiting these classics, offering a blend of historical charm with contemporary nuances. The appeal lies in their simplicity, authenticity, and the narratives they carry. For the modern man, crafting and enjoying these drinks isn’t just about consumption but about experience, connection, and a nod to the sophisticated gentlemen of the past.

Gentlemen, in an era where opulence often translates to overcrowded and overhyped destinations, the quest for authenticity amidst luxury has never been more challenging. Yet, the modern man seeks experiences, not mere sights. The perfect holiday destination offers a blend of understated elegance, adventure, and a chance to connect with a destination’s true spirit. Here are some of the world’s most magnificent, yet unchartered, luxurious escapes fit for a discerning gentleman.

Fjords of Greenland: The Ice-Crowned Retreat

Skip the often-visited fjords of Norway, and instead, venture to Greenland’s pristine coastlines. Stay in sumptuous lodges overlooking the dramatic icy landscapes, enjoying private boat tours, heli-skiing adventures, and Northern Lights gazing from the comfort of a heated outdoor jacuzzi.

São Tomé and Príncipe: The African Eden

This untouched archipelago located in the Gulf of Guinea offers rainforests, cocoa plantations, and beaches that could challenge those of the Maldives. The sheer exclusivity of these islands, combined with luxurious resorts, makes this destination irresistible.

Bhutan: The Last Shangri-La

The Kingdom of Bhutan is not just about monasteries and treks. Imagine luxurious lodges perched on cliff edges, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. With its Gross National Happiness index, this destination promises mental rejuvenation amidst luxury.

Patagonia’s Estancias: The Gaucho Luxe

Beyond Patagonia’s hiking trails lies the opulent world of its estancias (ranches). Immerse yourself in the life of an Argentine gaucho while enjoying gourmet meals, polo lessons, and private horseback rides across the dramatic landscape.

Faroe Islands: The Nordic Enigma

Nestled between Iceland and Norway, the Faroe Islands are a symphony of jagged cliffs, emerald meadows, and a deep-rooted Viking heritage. The destination offers a mix of rich culture, contemporary Nordic design, and culinary surprises.

Tasmania: The Wilderness Elite

Australia’s island state offers rugged landscapes, secluded beaches, and the world’s cleanest air. Its luxury lodges offer an intimate connection to nature, with guided wildlife excursions, private art tours, and gastronomic delights.

For the modern gentleman, true luxury lies not just in thread counts or gourmet dishes, but in the authenticity of the experience. These destinations, untouched by the ruckus of mainstream tourism, promise an enriching journey, both outside and within. Pack your bags, pick your paradise, and embark on a journey of luxurious discovery. Safe travels!

Ah, the Porsche 911. An emblem of status, luxury, and pure driving pleasure. Any motoring enthusiast, from casual to committed, will recognize its iconic shape and be familiar with its storied history. But have you ever paused to wonder: why is it called the ‘911’? Let’s delve into this query that has piqued the interest of many a gentleman.

A Storied Past

The origin of the Porsche 911 dates back to the early 1960s. Designed as the successor to the equally iconic Porsche 356, the new model was initially going to be named the ‘901’.

Ferdinand « Butzi » Porsche, the grandson of the company’s founder Ferdinand Porsche, played a pivotal role in the design of the 901. The car was introduced at the 1963 Frankfurt Motor Show and immediately caught the eye of many. However, just as production was about to ramp up, a legal wrinkle arose.

The Name Change

Porsche’s plan to name their new model ‘901’ hit a roadblock when French car manufacturer Peugeot raised objections. Peugeot held trademark rights for car names formed by three numbers with a zero in the middle for certain markets.

To avoid legal entanglements and potential delays in their launch, Porsche made a quick, yet historic decision. They simply replaced the zero with a one, and thus, the 911 was born.

More Than Just A Number

The name ‘911’ has since become synonymous with sports car excellence. It signifies a perfect blend of power, grace, and engineering prowess. Over the years, the 911 has evolved, yet it has always remained true to its roots. The number ‘911’ is now more than just a model name; it represents a legacy.

There’s also an unintended poetic depth to the number. In emergency situations in the United States, ‘911’ is dialed for immediate assistance. In a way, the Porsche 911 comes to the rescue of those seeking an escape from the mundane, offering a thrilling driving experience like no other.

A Gentleman’s Ride

As a gentleman who appreciates the finer things in life, understanding the heritage of the Porsche 911 enriches the driving experience. It’s not just about the roar of the engine or the impeccable design; it’s about being part of a legacy. When you sit behind the wheel of a 911, you’re not just driving a car – you’re living a story that began over half a century ago.

The Porsche 911, with its rich history, iconic design, and unparalleled performance, holds a special place in the automotive world. The tale of its naming is a testament to the brand’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges, all while maintaining its commitment to excellence. So, the next time you spot a 911, or are fortunate enough to drive one, remember – there’s a fascinating story behind those three numbers.

Few things in the world resonate as deeply as driving on a sunny day, especially if it’s in a convoy. Now imagine that convoy consists of 6 Bentleys, an ‘80s Porsche, and a vintage Range Rover, traveling from Paris to Beaune.

The fortunate individual who embarked on this journey were part of a rally titled “Castles, Cars & Art de Vivre,” hosted by the incredibly stylish and hospitable Alexander Kraft, in association with Sotheby’s Realty South of France and Bentley. When an opportunity like this came up, there was no way one could decline.

It all started at Ralph’s in the heart of Paris. After a swift journey on the Eurostar and a ride in a Bentley Flying Spur from Gare du Nord to the hotel, the evening was set at this chic and sophisticated restaurant. The restaurant is undelinably Ralph Lauren with walls decorated with polo equipment, low ambient lighting, and an elegant courtyard. We were seated amongst renowned personalities from social media, (@onlyclassy) and Filippo (@gentlemansgram). Events like these have a unique charm, uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups with a shared passion; in this instance, that passion was cars, real estate and style.

The delicacies at Ralph’s were delectable, especially the lobster salad and the signature Ralph’s burger. Conversations flourished, spanning topics from vintage Formula One to watch exchanges. The day, however, had to come to a close, with the next day’s drive being eagerly anticipated.

The morning at the St James Hotel introduced the ensemble of cars for the weekend, primarily from Alexander’s collection, and a few 2022 models provided by Bentley. Soon, they were navigating through the bustling streets of Paris. The journey took us to the beautiful Château d’Aunoy, where the first round of car swapping commenced. We drove various cars, but driving the Porsche was a significant moment, especially being a manual with no power steering and driver aids. The emotions was palpable, a feeling most car enthusiasts can relate to.

The journey continued with pitstops and changing vehicles, leading us to Château Nuits-Saint-Georges, our accommodation for the next couples of nights. That evening, we were treated to a black-tie dinner hosted by  Alexander Kraft himself and filled with French culinary delights. But the best moments occurred on the veranda amidst deep and eclectic conversations, complemented by cigars.

The next morning, after a French breakfast, we made our way to Château de Savigny-les-Beaune. The property showcased a vast collection of Abarth vehicles and an astounding array of mid-century aircraft. However, the urge to drive overshadowed everything else, and soon we were back on the road heading to Château de Chaillouvres. The final day’s highlight was driving Alexander’s Azure, despite its unusual steering demands.

The weekend was filled with unparalleled experiences and memories. Alexander Kraft Monte Carlo and Sotheby’s Realty France were showered with gratitude, and anticipation for the 2023 edition was already building among those at Gentleman Jungle.

Check out the 2023 edition here