With another week in the bag, it’s fair to say we’ve earned a beverage or two. Fortunately, the last seven days have seen the Man of Many team inundated with an array of tempting libations, from rose-tinted tequila and premium Aussie lager to some very special whiskies from that remote haven of the Scottish dram, the island of Islay. We hope your home bar is similarly well-stocked as you cruise into the weekend, but if you’re looking for some inspiration as to what you should have in your glass to celebrate the week that was, Man of Many’s latest Staff Favourites has you covered and then some.
Man of Many GAINS Season 1, Episode 2 is now live!
While it’s entirely fair to indulge after a long week, you’re also going to want to burn off all those extra calories at some point. Fortunately, legendary trainer Jono Castano is back for the second instalment of Man of Many GAINS, our new series where he guides you through his ultimate workout and fitness secrets. This week, he’s showing us how to build stronger, more defined calves. Whether you feel yours are currently a little on the skinny side or just want to enhance your leg day routine, these moves are designed to deliver serious results. Watch the latest episode above or check out how to achieve bigger, stronger shoulders in Man of Many GAINS’ first episode via the link below.
A Rosé Tequila? Introducing Don Julio Rosado
Scott Purcell – Co-Founder
I wasn’t really sure what to think when I saw Don Julio’s name land in my inbox because while I’m well-versed in whisky, I have absolutely no clue when it comes to tequila. I always find the different types confusing, like mezcal, anyeno, reposado, and now rosado? But to my delight, upon opening the email, I was met with a delicious pink-hued bottle that looked remarkably similar to a French-style rosé wine. Don Julio Rosado is a new rosé Reposado tequila (more on that later), available for a limited time from August that has been aged in Ruby Port wine casks. The result is liquid with notes of strawberry, ripe raspberry and roasted caramel from the barrel that’s deliciously smooth. Tequila Don Julio Rosado is available from Dan Murphy’s, Costco and independent liquor stores from August 1, 2024, with an RRP of AUD$249.
So, back to the different types of tequila. A quick lesson after some googling:
- Blanco (Silver): Unaged tequila with a pure agave flavour, often used in cocktails.
- Joven (Gold): A blend of Blanco with aged tequila or flavourings, offering a smoother taste.
- Reposado: Aged 2-12 months in oak, with a balanced flavour of agave and light oak.
- Añejo: Aged 1-3 years in oak, featuring rich, complex flavours with a smooth finish.
- Extra Añejo: Aged over 3 years, offering deep, rich flavours similar to fine whisky.
- Cristalino: Filtered aged tequila with a clear appearance but the smoothness of an Añejo.
- Rosado (Rosé Tequila): Tequila aged in red wine barrels, giving it a fruity, smooth profile.
- Mezcal: While not technically a type of tequila, Mezcal is a closely related Mexican spirit made from various types of agave, not just the blue agave used for tequila. Mezcal can be produced in several regions of Mexico, with Oaxaca being the most famous.
Favourite Article of the Week: Melbourne’s Starward Whisky Named World’s ‘Most Awarded’ Distillery…Again
Emergency “Dump & Bake” Fried Rice Recipe
Frank Arthur – Co-Founder
One of my go-to culinary resources is the Australian food blog Recipe Tin Eats by Nagi Maehashi. Just about every recipe I’ve tried from her site has been a hit, but one that stands out is Nagi’s Emergency “Dump & Bake” Fried Rice. It’s super simple, quick to prepare and incredibly delicious. Special shout out to my mother-in-law for introducing us to this dish during a recent visit. It’s quickly earned a permanent spot in our household menu rotation.
Favourite Article of the Week: Why Paris 2024 Was the Most Important Olympics in Recent History
Ardbeg’s Vintage Y2K 23 Years Old and The Abyss
Rob Edwards – Branded Content Editor
Working in an office where whisky is a matter of daily discussion and we regularly have new releases coming through our door, I’ve become somewhat difficult to impress when it comes to the water of life. So when I tell you that Ardbeg has a pair of very special whiskies here, you know I mean it.
First up, we have the Vintage Y2K 23 Years Old. This ultra-rare expression has been crafted using some of this millennium’s very first spirit. By that, I mean that while others were out partying and seeing in the new year on the evening of December 31st 1999, Ardbeg’s dedicated stillmen were also staying up all night. However, they were doing so in order to keep the spirit flowing, and it’s this very spirit that Ardbeg has used to craft this delicious, smoky single malt boasting bright, zesty notes and a fascinating mix of sweet, sooty flavours. It’s a remarkable thing, and don’t just take my word for it: Ardbeg’s Vintage Y2K 23 Years Old won Double Gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and then Gold at the 2024 International Spirits Challenge.
Next, we have The Abyss. Where to start with this absolutely incredible 34-year-old expression? Ardbeg has used the same spirit matured in heavily toasted French oak casks that sat at the core of its legendary Ardbeg Corryvreckan Limited Edition release from back in ‘08. Here, the last of this spirit has been bottled at cask strength 48.4% ABV and limited to just 400 numbered units. In addition to a bottle of this simply outstanding whisky, each of these units comes with a comic created by acclaimed American comic-book artist Tradd Moore, who uses it to reimagine the legend of Breacan, the Scandinavian prince who was swept into a whirlpool. It’s a compelling tale to accompany an even more compelling whisky.
While The Abyss is already sold out—sadly, a spirit never to be repeated—you can get your hands on the Vintage Y2K, but you’ll need to sign up to the Ardbeg Committee via the link below in order to do so.
Favourite Article of the Week: Dazzling New 18-Carat Gold Longines Spirit Flyback Takes Flight
Radix Nutrition
John Guanzon – Head of Social
If your mornings are anything like mine, they’re a whirlwind of trying to get out of the door while still trying to get a decent meal in. Recently, I’ve discovered Radix Nutrition, a popular New Zealand brand that has recently entered Australian shores and these guys have nailed the art of quick, easy, and genuinely delicious nutrition. I’ve been trying out a variety of Radix breakfasts recently, which come in convenient, single-serve pouches designed for quick and easy preparation.
When I say quick and easy – you literally just have to add water. The pouches are available in various flavours like Apple Cinnamon, Blueberry, and Banana but are backed with a blend of whole food and natural ingredients such as fruits, seeds, nuts, and protein sources. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first since I’ve tried a few “just add water” meals where you compromise taste for convenience, but Radix completely changed my mind with their breakfast pouches—they’re both incredibly tasty and genuinely satisfying. Great for busy people on the go, but I can imagine it’d also be great to pack while camping or going on a hike.
Favourite Article of the Week: Monday Munchies: 6 of the Best Episodes in Foodie History
Dometic PSC19 Soft Cooler
John Guanzon – Head of Social
The countdown is officially on to spring, as the end of winter is finally in sight. And here in Australia, when the sun’s out, we all come out. Picnics, beach days, camping – I can’t wait. One item I have ready and waiting to use weekend after weekend in the warmer months is the Dometic PSC19 soft cooler, which is the outdoor brand’s first foray into soft coolers. At home, I already own a large 70L ice box, which is great for entertaining and BBQs, but due to its size, it’s not as portable as I wish it was. Lucky for me, Dometic has recently dropped a brand new range of soft coolers with sizes ranging from 9L and 19L to a 22L capacity backpack.
The 19L version I picked up strikes a sweet spot for those weekend hikes, local picnics, or beach outings. It combines spacious storage with portability, making it ideal for larger groups and longer outings. Impressively, it holds up to 35 cans or 8 wine bottles, so you’re well-prepared for any gathering. I love the premium and durable design and thoughtful details like the heavy-duty and high-performance zipper, which guarantees a 100 per cent leakproof and airtight seat. The IPX6-rated waterproof coating adds another layer of protection, making this cooler as rugged as your adventures.
The PSC19 I have also boasts MOLLE loops for easy attachment of accessories and gear, making it versatile for any activity, be it camping, fishing, or urban park exploration. I’m confident in predicting my Dometic soft cooler will get a good workout this spring/summer and be the true MVP of the season. Winter, consider your days numbered.
Favourite Article of the Week: Monday Munchies: 6 of the Best Episodes in Foodie History
Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout – Cal Newport
Dean Blake – Journalist – Tech, Entertainment & Features
I’ve been on a reading kick lately, and I recently finished up Cal Newport’s Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout. I haven’t read anything else by Newport, but I know he’s a pretty well-respected author within the ‘rethinking work’ crowd, and, coming off my own brush with burnout, I wanted to see if any of his advice would help me out moving forward.
While I don’t necessarily think all of the advice Newport gives in the book is going to revolutionise my own work habits, there were quite a few ‘a-ha’ moments throughout Slow Productivity for me, all told through real-world examples of people that have made an impact on the world without working themselves to death.
The key goals of ‘do fewer things, work at a natural pace, and obsess over quality’ feel obvious, but are so often forgotten due to the fast-paced nature of our lives and work. If you’re someone who often finds themselves pulled in too many directions at once, feeling stretched thin as a result, I’d recommend you check this one out.
Favourite Article of the Week: Monday Munchies: 6 of the Best Episodes in Foodie History
Chebbo’s Stainless Steel Patty Smasher
Beatrix Boon – Social Media Producer
I’m on my at-home smash burger grind at the moment and I desperately needed a better utensil to get that nice thin lattice shape. I saw Chebbo’s patty smasher on a recent product guide from MoM and thought I’d bite the bullet and order one! I haven’t regretted it. Nice and wide, with a cool etching of the Chebbo’s logo on the top, this heavy stainless steel press has been just what I needed to take my at-home burgs to the next level.
Favourite Article of the Week: Google Pixel 9 Review: Is this the Future of Smartphones?
Oscar Wylee Falcon in Beetle Glaze
Elliott Barsby – Commercial Director
As part of my current obsession with running—if I haven’t mentioned it yet—I’m gearing up for the Sydney Marathon in a few weeks – I’ve been testing out the new Falcon sports sunglasses from the Oscar Wylee. If you’re into running and want to look the part, these are a top choice.
Crafted from ultra-light thermoplastic, the Falcons offer both durability and comfort, making them ideal for my recent long runs. They feature ventilation in the upper rim and temples to prevent fogging, ensuring clear vision during the most intense of sessions. Rubber grip nose pads and adjustable rubber on the temples keep them securely in place, while the single-piece lens design enhances visibility and reduces glare, providing optimal clarity for high performance in sunny Sydney conditions.
Part of Oscar Wylee’s Active Collection, these lightweight and polarised sunglasses are designed to elevate any active lifestyle, catering to multi-sport athletes and aspiring runners (like me) alike. They’re the perfect companion for all your outdoor adventures.
Favourite Article of the Week: Need a Gift for Dad? Buffalo Trace is Hosting an Unmissable Bourbon and BBQ Celebration
