There are few things more beautiful in this world than fine leatherwork and a brand new bottle of straight Kentucky bourbon. When it comes to the latter, Old Rip Van Winkle is the most coveted and as for the leather, you can’t go wrong with the Rapha Leather Town Gloves. Both are coveted and will provide years of use if treated properly. This isn’t the first time I’ve highlighted cycling products with bourbon and it’s only the finest products that inspired the comparison.

The Rapha Leather Town gloves are exquisitely crafted from the finest Africa hair sheep. Now, I’ve never seen a hair sheep before but they apparently live in an hot and arid place, making their skin extremely tough but thin, perfect for gloves. As with all leather, you’ll want to care for them. When they get dirty or wet, clean them off and let them dry. Then, a simple wipe down with leather conditioner helps keep the leather supple.

Warmth is key in the winter months and no matter how nice gloves look, they have to keep you warm. I’ve found them to be perfect for 40 degrees and up, as is. For sub 40 degree weather, the Ibex merino wool liners keeps your extremities warm. Since it doesn’t get that cold too often in Texas, I’ve only had to wear the liners a couple of times.

And even for the coldest rides, coming home to a glass of Van Winkle 10 year is a sure way to warm you up. The aroma of a fine bourbon such as this will compliment the leather. Simple open the bottle to be greeted with a warm scent of caramel and charred oak wood. At 107 proof, it should be sipped neat, with no ice. If you prefer your bourbon cold, drink it outdoors. The Rapha Leather Town Gloves will keep your hands warm enough!