On this episode of the Life of Luxe Podcast, Ben and Joel interview Michael Cimarusti, chef and co-owner of Providence and Connie & Ted’s in Los Angeles.  Providence just celebrated 20 years in business and they were one of two LA Restaurants to get three Michelin stars in 2025.  providencela.com

On this episode:

• None of this would mean anything without my family to celebrate with
• Food is a representation of family
• The Clam Box - food of the god’s
• Joel doesn't eat seafood?!
• 11 pounds of caviar
• Drinking bourbon in Japan

Luxe or Sux - food edition

• The Bear
• Filet O’Fish
• Molton Lava Cake
• Sous Vede
• Branzino

Rapid Fire

1. What does Luxe mean to you?
2. Death Row Meal
3. Best Pasta in Los Angeles
4. Bourbon you love right now
5. Last meal that left you astounded
6. A chocolate chip interlude
7. Misconception of a Michelin Star RestaurantOn the Menu:

• 2022 Stagg Barrel Pick: Providence. 64.6 abv/129.2 proof
• Life of Luxe Rare Character Rye
• Bombagers PFC

About Chef Cimarusti:

Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in fine dining, Michael Cimarusti is a James Beard Award-winning chef, acclaimed seafood authority, and passionate sustainability advocate. With a career spanning more than three decades, he has helped define modern American seafood through a blend of refined technique, reverence for the ocean, and an unwavering commitment to responsible sourcing.

As executive chef and co-owner of Providence & Connie and Ted’s in Los Angeles, Cimarusti has led Providence to the forefront of West Coast fine dining since its opening in 2005. Under his leadership, Providence has become synonymous with excellence, retaining two Michelin stars since 2008 and earning the distinguished Green Michelin Star for its dedication to sustainable practices. In 2025, the restaurant celebrates its 20th anniversary and one of only two Los Angeles restaurants to achieve Michelin’s highest honor, three stars.

A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Cimarusti honed his skills in the kitchens of legendary establishments such as Spago, Le Cirque, and Water Grill, where he garnered national acclaim for his innovative seafood menus. In 2013, he opened Connie & Ted’s in West Hollywood—a casual New England-style eatery inspired by his Rhode Island upbringing and love for honest, briny coastal fare.

His accolades include the James Beard Award for Best Chef: West (2019), as well as regular appearances on culinary television programs like Top Chef, MasterChef, Hell’s Kitchen, and Mind of a Chef, where he continues to inspire the next generation of chefs and advocates.

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

On this episode of the Life of Luxe Podcast, Ben and Joel interview Michael Cimarusti, chef and co-owner of Providence and Connie & Ted’s in Los Angeles.  Providence just celebrated 20 years in business and they were one of two LA Restaurants to get three Michelin stars in 2025.  https://providencela.com/

On this episode:

• Italian honey bees
• Picking Barrels with Freddie Johnson
• Michael’s Go to Bourbons 
• Quita Michel Restaurants in Kentucky
• How Providence has evolved over 20 years
• 2 Stars and Michelin peaced out
• Namedropping and Michelin event drama
• “I must just be dumb”
• Closeness of the food industry
• The first 3 star service and I was escorting the health inspector around the building
• Restaurant folks are a different breed

On the Menu:

• 2022 Stagg Barrel Pick: Providence. 64.6 abv/129.2 proof
• Life of Luxe Rare Character Rye
• Bombagers PFC

About Chef Cimarusti:

Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in fine dining, Michael Cimarusti is a James Beard Award-winning chef, acclaimed seafood authority, and passionate sustainability advocate. With a career spanning more than three decades, he has helped define modern American seafood through a blend of refined technique, reverence for the ocean, and an unwavering commitment to responsible sourcing.

As executive chef and co-owner of Providence & Connie and Ted’s in Los Angeles, Cimarusti has led Providence to the forefront of West Coast fine dining since its opening in 2005. Under his leadership, Providence has become synonymous with excellence, retaining two Michelin stars since 2008 and earning the distinguished Green Michelin Star for its dedication to sustainable practices. In 2025, the restaurant celebrates its 20th anniversary and one of only two Los Angeles restaurants to achieve Michelin’s highest honor, three stars.

A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Cimarusti honed his skills in the kitchens of legendary establishments such as Spago, Le Cirque, and Water Grill, where he garnered national acclaim for his innovative seafood menus. In 2013, he opened Connie & Ted’s in West Hollywood—a casual New England-style eatery inspired by his Rhode Island upbringing and love for honest, briny coastal fare.

His accolades include the James Beard Award for Best Chef: West (2019), as well as regular appearances on culinary television programs like Top Chef, MasterChef, Hell’s Kitchen, and Mind of a Chef, where he continues to inspire the next generation of chefs and advocates.

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Part Two of our two-part episode catching up with Ben and Joel and the guys talk all things Rye Whiskey.

On this Episode:

- Rye Whiskey is Joel's favorite whiskey in the world, and also his least favorite.
- It all started with Candy Crush
- With a little air in it, I love it now
- Say no a lot
- The latest LoL Release - Brook Hill Rye
- Rye gets better with age
- Are the best Ryes from Indiana?
- George Washington, Whiskey mogul
- Joel's Rye Whiskey recommendations
- Ben regrets NOT buying a bottle at Michter's.
- Life of Luxe happenings

On the Menu:

- Rare Character Single Barrel Series Rye Whiskey LOL-2: Life of Luxe Pick.  121.56 proof, 8yr 2m, 375ml

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Part One of our two-part episode catching up with Ben and Joel and the guys talk all things Rye Whiskey.

On this Episode:

- Joel is starting to out price Ben
- Busy with Life and Joel Moved.
- Ben was sad to see Joel go
- Joel is a cowboy now 
- Cowgirl vs. Cowboy steak
- Another not so quick Rapid Fire with Joel
- slide into the DM’s, Joel is looking for a friend
- when you say yes to something you are saying no to something
- Dallas cigar scene is awesome
- Joel killing dreams since 08
- The Dallas Whiskey scene is incredible
- Recapping The Life of Luxe Event at Willett Distillery
- Rare Character: Tastes Expensive
- Eating caviar off expensive watches
- Seafood: I had a bad experience
- Bring Le Grande Dame to the Dance
- The Bar at Willett is unmatched
- Ben was on the Dusty Train
- I already bought these bottles, can you guys drink this stuff?
- Candy Crush Auctions for a crazy amount
- Sick bottles getting put into the Wild. 

On the Menu:

- Rare Character Exceptional Cask: Fuente Charity Pick
- Rare Character Single Barrel Series Rye Whiskey LOL-2: Life of Luxe Pick.  121.56    proof, 8yr 2m, 375ml

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Part Two of our two-part get to know Ben and Joel episodes.

On this episode:

• Chocolate chips on the outside
• Have you seen food prices lately?
• Life of Luxe? Douche.
• Ben hates small talk 
• Silly questions
• 100 Grand is an underrated candy
• Joel can’t get into cheese curds
• Luxe or Sux
• Listener Questions
• Joel’s other personality
• Leave your shoes on!
• Let’s make Whiskey fun again
• Rating Ben’s Whiskey trade

On the Menu:

• Rebecca Reed’s famous chocolate chip cookies
• Private Reserve Seelbach’s Cabernet finish (130 proof)
• Private Reserve Seelbach’s Amburana finish (115.5 proof)
• Woodinville Single Barrel Bourbon, Barrel #6180 (116.23 proof)
• Hancock’s President’s Reserve (88.9 proof)
• Paladar Tequila: Life of Luxe Private Barrel Pick

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Part One of our two-part get to know Ben and Joel episodes.

On this episode:

• How Ben played in the new Life of Luxe golf hat
• An update on Joel’s golf game
• Genius’ pick green
• Dumb and Dumber doesn’t hold up
• It all started with Dewer’s White Label
• Joel’s first bourbon was a unicorn
• Ben and Joel’s Crazy Willett connection
• We have cool wives
• First impressions and crazy liquor store prices
• Pillaging the Cigar Honey Hole
• Best pour we’ve had lately
• God does not want Ben in Charleston
• Crushing Pappy Bottles 

On the Menu:

•  Henry McKenna Single Barrel 10 year Bottled in Bond Bourbon

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Part Two of our two-part interview with Actor, Investor, Podcaster and Co-Founder of Palm Republic Rum, Eric Winter.

On this episode:

• Eric’s latest venture: Palm Republic Rum
• Rum is everything to Latin America
• Rum that tastes like Bourbon
• Beautiful Art Deco bottles
• Joel is NOT a rum drinker
• The Silver is not too sweet, great balance
• This is going to replace Tequila for Ben
• Rum is a lifestyle
• Punch up the alcohol (92 proof)
• The Dark Rum tastes older than 8 years
• Distilled in a Pot Still
• Joel is a little hungover
• The motivation behind starting the company
• It’s tough to find great rum
• This is NOT just another celebrity spirit brand
• The Rum is the Star
• A huge gap in the U.S. Rum market
• The goal for Palm Republic
• Why Bourbon when you can Rum?

On the Menu:

Palm Republic Silver Rum (80 proof)

• Distilled: Jamaica and the US Virgin Islands
• Taste: Light, tropical with hints of pineapple and lime
• Finish: Smooth and crisp with a whisper of lemon zest
• What makes it Special: A uniquely skippable silver rum

Palm Republic Aged Rum (92 proof)

• Distilled: Panama, Jamaica and the US Virgin Islands
• Taste: Rich and robust with hints of caramelized banana, brown sugar and walnuts
• Finish: Smooth, light and sweet.  Full bodied finish
• What makes it Special: Aged 8 years in sherry casks, delivering the complexity of a bourbon

Get more info on Palm Republic Rum at palmrepublicrum.com

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Part One of our two-part interview with Actor, Investor, Podcaster and Co-Founder of Palm Republic Rum, Eric Winter.

On This Episode:

• Bocce ball tournament’s at Mario Lopez’s house
• The Success of “The Rookie” on ABC
• Michael Bay worthy action sequences
• Eric’s indirect path to acting
• Never ask out an extra
• Eric’s first big break 
• A Musical Cop Show with Hugh Jackman
• One step away from being a Fire Fighter
• The Hollywood Hustle
• Best and Worst Actors to work with
• The Big Role Eric didn’t get
• Nudity on The Ugly Truth

Get more info on Palm Republic Rum at palmrepublicrum.com

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

While we are on hiatus preparing for season 2,  we decided to share some unreleased recordings from our practice runs before the Podcast launched.  Enjoy!

On this episode:

• Joel is NOT an influencer
• The Draw (Get to know Ben and Joel)
• Not so Rapid Fire Answers
• Airing of Grievances
• Nothing better than Late Night In-n-Out 

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

While we are on hiatus preparing for season 2,  we decided to share some unreleased recordings from our practice runs before the Podcast launched.  Enjoy!

On this episode:

•  Plush Picks
• Joel’s Tampa finds
• When to crack bottles
• Pandemic Picks for Joel
• Blind wine tasting

On the menu: 

• Willett Family Estate - Life of Luxe/Corona Cigar Co. 8yr (Barrel no. 2120) 124.6 proof

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

While we are on hiatus preparing for season 2,  we decided to share some unreleased recordings from our practice runs before the Podcast launched.  Enjoy!

On this episode:

• What is Luxe to us?
• The inaugural 'Luxe or Sux'
• Get to know Ben and Joel

On the menu:

• Weller 12
• Willett Wheated 8yr Bourbon

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Wrapping up an incredible first season of the Life of Luxe Podcast and all the 2023 Life of Luxe events.  No breaks, all talk, only slightly edited.

On this episode:

• Season 1 wrap up
• Ben calls Joel out
• Bordeaux with Bolognese? 
• Don’t steal from Life of Luxe Events
• Ben and Joel’s favorite pours of the Season
• Joel’s confession (Breaking News!!)
• Crushing the stash during Covid
• Joel’s never going to sell his whiskey
• Willett Life of Luxe Event Recap
• Joel teases some 2024 releases
• Ben needed to detox from Cigars
• Poor Man’s Pappy Secret Ingredient
• Air kills bourbon
• Joel’s favorite Picks of the Year
• Rare Character and Joel resurrecting a legendary bourbon brand (Breaking News!!) 
• Ben isn’t man enough for Elijah Craig Barrel Proof

On the menu:

• 1940’s Pikeville Maryland Straight Rye Whiskey
• Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 1
• Poor Man’s Pappy Life of Luxe Blend (60% Weller Antique 107/40% Weller 12)
• Willett Family Estate Kentucky Straight Bourbon Life of Luxe 2019

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

On this episode of the Life of Luxe Podcast, Ben and Joel interview Zac Joseph, President and Owner of Old Commonwealth Distillery. 

https://oldcommonwealth.com/

On this Episode:

• Was this a curated plan?
• When did you decide to do your own thing?
• Younger Whiskey Drinkers
• Make the buying experience fun
• How do you make Allocated Whiskey more Accessible?
• Helping other Entrepreneurs 
• Not using original OC label art
• Julian’s Support and Input
• What’s inside the bottle better kick ass
• The property was in horrible shape when we bought it
• Original Van Winkle Artwork
• The Property has a sense of Importance
• Batman lives on the property
• Forgoing Industry Standard Practices for Scalability 
• Recreating the “Dusty” bottle profile
• Leaving the Bung open
• The Barrel does 80% of the work
• The future of Old Commonwealth
• A pre-episode excerpt special

On the menu:

• Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Years Old
• Kentucky Nectar Founder’s 1
• Mystery Charleston OC x Life of Luxe Pick

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

An interview with Staves & Grain Co-Founders, James and Eric.

In this episode:

• An expensive day for Uncle Sunny
• Life of Luxe 10th Anniversary Event
• Ben may never financially recover from this event
• Pablo’s Crazy Pours from the Old Lightning Pop-up Shop
• Staves and Grain Experimental Series with Life of Luxe
• First time Joel has picked a finish whiskey
• Joel’s recipe (50/50 blend of these picks)
• Beautiful Glencarin decanter - looks like money
• A Staves and Grain trifecta to come
• Staves and Grain Elevator Pitch
• James is a Whiskey Geek
• We are very curious
• No timeframe for Experimentals
• Staves and Grain Based in New Jersey - why not Kentucky?
• How do you see the brand going in the next five years?
• Time and Patience is on our side
• The first Staves and Grain Pick
• Transparency in Sourcing Product
• Reasonable Prices and Keeping Money in the Bottle
• Why get involved with Life of Luxe?
• What’s next for Staves and Grain?

@stavesandgrain on Instagram and Facebook

On the menu:

• Trinidad Cuban Cigar
• Staves and Grain Experimental Series - Life of Luxe/Corona Cigar No. 1 (Maraschino Liqueur) 95/5 MGP Rye 7yr.
• Staves and Grain Experimental Series - Life of Luxe/Corona Cigar No. 2 (Italian Amaro) 95/5 MGP Rye 7yr.
• Staves and Grain Experimental Series - Stout Finished Rye

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Some last minute shopping recommendations for that special someone.

Bourbon $25-$35
Buffalo Trace

Bourbon $40-$80
Willett Family
(Noah’s Mill, Rowan’s Creek, Johnny Drum, Old Bardstown, Willett Rye, etc.)

Bourbon over $100
Rare Character Fortuna
Rare Character Fortuna Barrel Proof

Wine $35-$50
BV Tapestry

Wine $50-$100
Laurent Perrier Brut Rose  
Chateau La Lagune Bordeaux
HDV Chardonnay

Wine over $100
Heitz Trailside Cabernet Sauvignon
Chateau Haut-Bailly Bordeaux
Chateau Haut-Brion Bordeaux
Sea Smoke Pinot Noir

Cigars
Tatuaje Pork Tenderloin
Tatuaje 20th Anniversary
Fuente Rare Pink
Davidoff Grand Cru No. 2 or No. 3
Zino Platinum Grand Master

Super Luxe Items
NFT Cigars
(Atabey, Tatuaje Anarchy, Golden bull)

Davidoff Royal Cigars

Rare Character Exceptional Series Whiskey

Willett Family Estate Bourbon

Harlan Estate Brands
(Harlan, Maiden, Bond, The Mascot)

Any Life of Luxe Picks

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

A two-part interview with MotorTrend Senior Features Editor, TV and Podcast Host and Super Cool dude, Jonny Lieberman. 

In this episode: 

• Jonny’s first gig at MotorTrend
• If I can’t do it, let’s figure it out now
• Jonny’s process for testing and reviewing
• It’s literally NOT rocket science 
• A Prius is not a Bugatti 
• Make it interesting
• Getting reviews wrong
• My wife vomited in an Aston Martin
• Ford GT in a drive through car wash
• Ferrari banned me for life
• Jumping a G Wagon
• Epic Drives in Scotland with Bentley
• Staying at the Easter-Elchies house at Macallen
• You can never repeat this story
• Sick - A Proper Scottish Adventure
• The EV future of automobiles

On the menu:

• “Candy Crush” Willett Family Estate Rye - Life of Luxe Barrel Pick (319) - 7 year, 117 proof
• “Life of Luxe 2019” Willett Family Estate Bourbon (792) - Life of Luxe Barrel Pick 15year 122 proof
• 2014 Limited Edition Partagas

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

A two-part interview with MotorTrend Senior Features Editor, TV and Podcast Host and Super Cool dude, Jonny Lieberman. 

In this episode:

• What is Cynar?
• Jonny is remote
• The difference in  Blanton’s bottles
• Joel is soft and sweet - like his picks
• Jonny’s weight loss journey
• No one cheats once
• Fitness while traveling with Will Vargas
• The Lido Deck with Drew Stoddard
• Quality Shizz
• How Jonny and Joel met
• A Zebra wrapped Ferrari
• My eyes exploded and I rose up to Heaven
• Bro, If you know you know and you don’t know
• Lockjaw from drinking so much
• Jonny’s background
• You don’t have to start from conception
• Junior Technological Evangelist
• If you don’t get out of this chair right now, in ten years you’ll still be sitting here
• 5 years of working hard and no money
• Never say no
• Shut the door, Right now, yes or no, Senior Editor 
• I could never envision you could make money writing for a car website
• You’ll never work here, kid
• 80% of success is showing up - Woody Allen
• Writer’s Block
• You’re a pretty angry dude, apparently
• Therapy helped a lot
• Chugging 15yr Willett out of the bottle
• Jonny 17.0

On the menu:

• Blanton’s Gold UK Edition - 103 proof
• 2014 Limited Edition Partagas

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

A preview of the upcoming two-part interview with MotorTrend’s Senior Features Editor, TV and Podcast Host and Super Cool dude, Jonny Lieberman.

The Draw

1. What does Luxe mean to you?
2. What is a Luxe gift for the car lover?
3. What is a question you wished people would ask you?
4. Why no “h” in Jonny?
5. What do you wish you would have known about this industry?

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

A two-part interview with Corona Cigar Co. GM and Beverage Director, From the J.C. Newman Diamond Crown Lounge at Corona Cigar Company in Tampa, FL

In this episode

• Early Christmas Gifts
• One man’s trash…
• Different Mash bills
• The inside scoop on the spirit industry
• The 3 people who have Tommy’s respect
• Working for the government
• Corona’s come up
• Freezing Cigars
• Learning from a high end clientele
• How Joel and Tommy met
• Why Joel and Tommy get along
• The Draw
• Rare Character/Life of Luxe event details

On The Menu:

• La Flor Dominicana Andalusian Bull - The Golden Bull NFT Cigar
• Arturo Fuente, Don Carlos Eye of the Bull Cigar
• Corona Cigar Co/Life of Luxe E.H. Taylor Single Barrel. 10 year
• Stagg Corona Cigar Co Barrel Pick - 139.4 proof
• Rare Character Corona Cigar Co/Life of Luxe Barrel Pick - 7yr, 116 proof

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

A two-part interview with Corona Cigar Co. GM and Beverage Director Tommy DeAddio. From the J.C. Newman Diamond Crown Lounge at Corona Cigar Company in Tampa, FL

On this episode:

• A lot of Titles
• Corona Cigar Co is awesome
• Why Tommy is the Candyman
• The biggest mistake in Barrel Picking
• Saying No isn’t a bad thing
• Tommy’s Barrel Tasting Process
• Tommy’s Epic Picks
• Elmer T. Lee 
• Corona’s Budget Friendly Pours
• How Air and Cigar Smoke effect Bourbon
• The Bourbon Craze is Simmering Down
• The state of the spirits industry
• Tommy's favorite pick
• Wolfgang Puck makes good picks
• Tommy doesn't care what you think

On the menu:

• La Flor Dominicana Andalusian Bull - The Golden Bull NFT Cigar
• Arturo Fuente, Don Carlos Eye of the Bull Cigar
• Corona Cigar Co/Life of Luxe E.H. Taylor Single Barrel. 10 year

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

• Why Sunny hangs out with Joel
• Ben’s Reflections on the event
• Joel’s motivation
• Cigar NFT’s
• Birthday Smoke/Breakfast Smoke?
• What makes Life of Luxe events special?
• Ben makes a confession about his lack of cigar knowledge
• Nothing wrong with throwing up after your first cigar
• Edwin the Fish joins the show
• Edwin and Joel’s first date and epic pours
• Edwin’s impressions of Life of Luxe Events
• We need more ladies at Life of Luxe Events
• Edwin’s definition of Luxe
• Joel’s breakdown of the event
• Running to buy bottles and trying to resale them
• Tired of Chasing Unicorns
• Edwin’s favorite Life of Luxe Picks
• More Life of Luxe Fun to Come

• La Flor Dominicana Andalusian Bull - The Golden Bull NFT Cigar

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

A three-part interview with Rare Character Whiskey Company Co-Founder Pablo Moix, From the J.C. Newman Diamond Crown Lounge at Corona Cigar Company in Tampa, FL

On this episode:

• Inspiration for the Rare Character name
• Being consistently inconsistent
• Room for Jazz in Bourbon
• McDonald’s French Fries and Universal Deliciousness
• A Design nightmare
• Pablo’s favorite expressions
• RIO from Money Heist
• Understanding Joel’s palate and thoughtfulness
• How Joel and Pablo became friends
• Trust, Trust Me and Trust Me Fully
• The Hollywood Bottle
• The Obliteration Story
• This smells expensive!
• Something to be celebrated

On the menu:

• Rare Character Single Barrel Series: Straight Kentucky Rye Whiskey, Selected by Bourbon Street Wine & Spirits. Cask Strength, 7yr
• Fortuna: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. 6yr, 102 proof
• Rare Character: Obliteration. 143.80 Proof, 14 years old

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

A three-part interview with Rare Character Whiskey Company Co-Founder Pablo Moix, From the J.C. Newman Diamond Crown Lounge at Corona Cigar Company in Tampa, FL

On this episode:

• Getting fired from Cheesecake Factory
• Pablo’s big break in LA
• Hustle, Hard Work and learning a lot
• Inspiration from Kobe
• Scopa Italian Roots
• COVID Shutdowns in LA
• “Dude, Where’s the Sassicaia?”
• Old Lightning
• “I don’t know what that is.  Do you have the Pappy?”
• Pablo’s Barrel Hunting Obsession
• “Do you have anything in the back?”
• All Cash. No Tax.

On the menu:

• Rare Character Single Barrel Series: Straight Kentucky Rye Whiskey, Selected by Bourbon Street Wine & Spirits. Cask Strength, 7yr
• Fortuna: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. 6yr, 102 proof
• Rare Character: Obliteration. 143.80 Proof, 14 years old

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

On this episode of the Life of Luxe Podcast, Ben and Joel interview Zac Joseph, President and Owner of Old Commonwealth Distillery. 

https://oldcommonwealth.com/

On This Episode:

• Joel’s favorite biscuits
• Good looking things for Ben’s new whiskey room
• More Ruthless on Luxe or Sux
• Drinking before Noon
• Pablo made a deal with the Devil
• We love fun stuff
• Did you buy every Rare Pink in Kentucky?
• Joel forces you into the Cigar habit
• Where Cigars have an edge over Bourbon
• Angel Share: Joel’s favorite Opus
• Cigar smokers live 7 years longer
• Hoffman Bourbon dropping soon?
• Lawrenceburg, KY history
• Zac’s Old Commonwealth Obsession
• Making Torpedo Fuel
• Be a Tour Guide
• What was the plan?
• Moonshine University
• Premium Craft Spirits

Luxe or Sux

• Upcoming Subtle Spirit Session One 13yr Rye x Life of Luxe Pick 
• Upcoming Brook Hill 12yr Rye x Life of Luxe Pick

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

A three-part interview with Rare Character Whiskey Company Co-Founder Pablo Moix, From the J.C. Newman Diamond Crown Lounge at Corona Cigar Company in Tampa, FL

In This Episode:

• The best way to fight Jet Lag 
• Rye for the Bourbon Drinker
• Restaurants don’t have to be “in between” jobs
• Hospitality is a passion and makes you better with customer service
• Get the steak at Scopa…and the meatballs…and the five pound charcuterie board
• Pablo likes cash
• How Pablo got started as a bartender in Queens, NY
• Being thoughtful with customer relationships
• Bartenders get the girls
• Jack Daniel’s is not a bourbon
• Mobsters give good tips
• Why Bourbon captured Pablo’s heart
• A “Cocktail” quality flare game
• Pablo’s whole life has been a side hustle
• How 9/11 changed Pablo’s trajectory in the industry
• Pablo’s first job in LA at the Cheesecake Factory
• NY experience is not LA experience
• The Four Seasons book with the answer for anything
• Staying at an Adult Film Star hotel for a few days
• Thursday night happy hour with Adult Film Stars

On the Menu:

• Rare Character Single Barrel Series: Straight Kentucky Rye Whiskey, Selected by Bourbon Street Wine & Spirits. Cask Strength. 7yr
• Fortuna: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. 6yr, 102 proof
• Rare Character: Obliteration. 143.80 Proof, 14 years old

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

In this episode:

• Joel reflects on the brand as the Life of Luxe turns ten.
• The definition of Luxe
• Love of John Mayer
• 10 Year Anniversary Swag
• LA Nights and the growth of the brand
• How Joel got into events
• Joel is not an influencers
• Luxe or Sux Segment
• What’s next for Life of Luxe?
• A Surprise for Ben
  
  

On the Menu for this Episode: 

• Nashville Barrel Company - 6yr, MGP 117 proof
• Rare Character Life of Luxe “X” - 7yr 
• Life of Luxe Willett samples 

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For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

In this episode:

• Frequently asked questions in the Spirits industry
• Ryan Seacrest’s career
• Scotch is from Scotland and other peaty tid-bits
• Tasting by proof
• Do you finish whiskey because it sucks? Or to gain market share?
• On-air Staves and Grain barrel pick for Life of Luxe

On the Menu for this Episode: 

• Wolves American Malt Whiskey Lot 1, 7 year/110 proof
• Rare Character Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey Single Barrel, 14.5 year/135 proof
• Life of Luxe Barrel Samples - Armagnac 7yr Rye, Cynar 7yr Rye, Luxardo Cherry 7yr Rye

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For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

In this episode:

• Ben recaps his 40th birthday trip to Pebble Beach
• Spanish Bay Fire Pits and overpriced cigars
• Cigar hangovers
• Genesis of Joel’s passion for cigars
• Cigar culture
• Joel’s favorite cigar producers
• Tips for hitting up a cigar store
• Cigar Ettiquite 
• Luxe or Sux Segment
• Cigar and drink pairings
• Upcoming Life of Luxe events
  
  

On the Menu for this Episode: 

• Life of Luxe - Poor man’s Pappy recipe Weller 107/Weller 12
• Davidoff Grand Cru No. 2  

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

In this Episode: 

• Ben and Joel get intimate with Wine
• Wine as a representation of people
• Why wine delivery sucks
• Our favorite wines of all time
• $50 and $100 bottles that mean something to us
• Luxe or Sux segment 
• Greek Mythology and The Judgment of Paris

On the Menu for this Episode: 

• 2016 Fisher Vineyards Mountain Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 
• 2017 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
• 2018 antler Hill chalk hill Pinot Noir
• 2020 Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
• Bardstown Bourbon Co - Four Square Rum Finish

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

In this episode:

• Ben's Dilemma 
• Joel's Trip to see the 'Candyman' in Tampa, Fl.
• Store Picks
• 'Luxe or Sucks' Segment
• Joel's visit to the Nashville Barrel Company and they try his potential barrel picks 

On the Menu for this Episode: 

• Russel's Reserve Private Barrel Selection Single Barrel - Selected by the Old Hickory Whiskey Bar in Pensacola, Fl.
• Michter's 10 year Single Barrel
• Old Forester King Ranch

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

On this episode of the Life of Luxe Podcast, Joel and Ben just talk.  No notes, no plan, no problem.  Let's see what they have to say!

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

A not so Luxe Lite where Ben and Joel discuss their favorite pours of the year.  Listen to hear what the guys picked.  

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For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Ben and Joel participate in the social media trend, This or That.  On this Luxe Lite the guys will decide between Unicorn Bourbons.  Are they crazy? Do you agree? Or strongly disagree?? See what they choose and let us know what you think.

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Ben and Joel participate in the social media trend, This or That.  On this Luxe Lite the guys will decide between everyday bourbons.  Are they crazy? Do you agree? Or strongly disagree?? See what they choose and let us know what you think.

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

Ben and Joel participate in the social media trend, This or That.  On this Luxe Lite the guys will decide between Classic Cocktails.  Are they crazy? Do you agree? Or strongly disagree?? See what they choose and let us know what you think.

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com

A not so Luxe Lite listen about Ben and Joel's favorite wines to pair with an American tradition: Thanksgiving.

On the menu:

Joel Pinot Noir Picks

1. Flowers
2. Failla
3. Sea Smoke
4. Paul Hobbs
5. Joseph Phelps
6. HdV Ygnacia
7. Cyrus

Ben Pinot Noir Picks

1. Gary Ferrell  Gap’s Crown Vineyard
2. Bergstrom Gregory Ranch 
3. Brittan Vineyards Basalt Block 
4. Lutum Sanford & Benedict
5. Etude Fiddlestix  
6. SPLURGE - Antica Terra

Joel Chardonnay Picks

1. Cakebread
2. Far Niente
3. Dolce Harvest Wine 
4. Paul Hobbs
5. Joseph Phelps

Ben Chardonnay Picks

1. HdV Chardonnay
2. Bergstrom Sigrid or Old Stones
3. Fisher Vineyards Whitney's Vineyard Chardonnay

*Let us know what you picked, if you like these or if you went with something else.

Follow us on Social Media - @lifeofluxe

For Merch and Business Inquiries visit - www.lifeofluxela.com