In the ever-expanding world of bourbon, where heritage and craftsmanship reign supreme, a new contender has emerged from an unexpected corner: Black Steel Bourbon. This limited-release Kentucky straight bourbon, crafted by gaming icon Guy Beahm (better known as Dr Disrespect) and acclaimed Master Distiller Marianne Eaves, promises to shake up the category with a blend of tradition and a rebellious, unapologetic spirit. Launched in November 2022, Black Steel Bourbon sold out its initial batch in mere hours, sparking curiosity and debate among whiskey enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Now, with subsequent batches hitting the market, it’s time to dive deep into what makes this bourbon tick—its origins, flavor profile, cultural impact, and whether it lives up to the hype.

The Origins: A Collision of Worlds

Black Steel Bourbon isn’t your typical distillery tale. It doesn’t stem from a multi-generational family of Kentucky whiskey makers or a storied brand with roots in the 19th century. Instead, it’s the brainchild of Guy Beahm, a larger-than-life internet personality who built his reputation as Dr Disrespect, a brash, mullet-sporting gaming legend with a penchant for theatrics. Known for his bombastic streams and millions of followers across Twitch and YouTube, Beahm’s foray into bourbon might seem like a gimmick at first glance. But dig deeper, and you’ll find a genuine passion for the spirit driving this venture.

Partnering with Marianne Eaves, Kentucky’s first female Master Distiller since Prohibition, Beahm brought a level of credibility to the project that transcends celebrity branding. Eaves, a history-making figure in her own right, has an impressive resume, having worked at Brown-Forman (home of Woodford Reserve) and later as Master Distiller at Castle & Key. Her expertise in crafting innovative yet authentic bourbons made her the perfect collaborator for Beahm’s vision: a whiskey that honors Kentucky tradition while injecting a dose of “lighthearted insanity,” as the Black Steel website puts it.

Sourced from Bardstown Bourbon Company (though not officially confirmed by the brand), Black Steel Bourbon is a small-batch, non-age-stated (NAS) Kentucky straight bourbon bottled at 93 proof (46.5% ABV). Priced at $64.99 for a 750ml bottle, it sits in the mid-tier range—accessible yet premium enough to signal quality. The lack of an age statement has raised eyebrows among bourbon purists, often a red flag for youthful whiskey masked by clever marketing. But Beahm and Eaves lean into the mystique, positioning Black Steel as a rule-breaker in a category steeped in convention.

The Packaging: Sleek, Bold, and Unmistakable

Before tasting a drop, Black Steel Bourbon makes an impression with its presentation. The bottle is a sleek, matte-black cylinder with a minimalist design that screams modernity. The label features subtle nods to Dr Disrespect’s persona—sharp lines, a hint of aggression, and a tagline that reads, “Exceptional tradition with a refreshingly untraditional spirit.” It’s a far cry from the rustic, heritage-heavy aesthetics of many bourbon brands, signaling that this is a product for a new generation of drinkers.

The bottle’s design isn’t just for show; it’s practical too. At 750ml, it’s standard-sized, but the weight and grip feel substantial, hinting at the boldness within. For fans of Dr Disrespect, it’s a collector’s item—a tangible piece of the “Champions Club” ethos he’s cultivated online. For bourbon aficionados, it’s a curiosity that demands a closer look.

Tasting Notes: What’s in the Glass?

Now, the real question: how does Black Steel Bourbon taste? The official tasting notes from the brand describe a “smooth yet wildly distinctive flavor profile enveloped with notes of sweet grain, charred wood, green apple, vanilla bean, and citrus peel.” It’s a lofty promise, blending classic bourbon elements with unexpected twists. To test it, I poured a dram neat into a Glencairn glass, then sampled it over ice and in a cocktail to see how it holds up across contexts.

Nose

On the nose, Black Steel delivers a punchy yet approachable aroma. The first whiff brings a burst of green apple and cinnamon, a bright and fruity opening that’s unusual for bourbon. There’s a youthful edge here—ethanol is present, suggesting a relatively young spirit—but it’s not overpowering. Swirling the glass reveals sweeter notes of vanilla bean and a faint hint of charred oak, grounding the fruitiness in bourbon’s traditional territory. Some reviewers on Reddit’s r/bourbon community have noted a “buttery corn” scent, and I’d agree there’s a subtle graininess that rounds out the profile. It’s inviting, if a bit unrefined, lacking the deep complexity of an older whiskey.

Palate

The first sip confirms what the nose suggests: this is a smooth bourbon with a lively personality. At 93 proof, it’s got enough heat to make its presence known, but the mouthfeel is creamy and surprisingly soft for its ABV. Sweet grain and vanilla lead the charge, followed by a tart green apple note that dances on the tongue. The charred wood comes through mid-palate, adding a touch of smokiness, while citrus peel lingers in the background, brightening the experience. It’s not a heavy, oak-driven bourbon; instead, it leans into a lighter, more playful flavor profile. Some might call it “young” or “simple,” but there’s an undeniable charm in its straightforwardness.

Finish

The finish is medium-length, with a gentle warmth that rises from the chest. The sweet grain and vanilla fade into a slight bitterness—think oak tannin and a whisper of citrus zest. It’s not a lingering, contemplative finish like you’d find in a 12-year-old bourbon, but it’s satisfying for what it is. Over ice, the sharpness softens, and the fruit notes become more pronounced, making it an easy sipper for casual enjoyment.

Versatility

To push it further, I mixed Black Steel into a classic bourbon cocktail: the Old Fashioned. With a sugar cube, a dash of bitters, and an orange peel, the bourbon’s brightness shone through, complementing the citrus without overpowering the drink. It’s not as robust as a high-rye bourbon in this context, but it holds its own, offering a refreshing twist on the standard.

The Verdict: Strengths and Weaknesses

Black Steel Bourbon is a polarizing spirit, and its strengths and weaknesses hinge on what you’re looking for in a bourbon.

Strengths

• Smoothness: For a 93-proof whiskey, it’s remarkably easy-drinking, with a creamy texture that belies its youth.
• Unique Profile: The green apple and citrus notes set it apart from the caramel-and-oak-heavy crowd, appealing to those who crave something different.
• Accessibility: At $64.99, it’s priced competitively for a small-batch bourbon, especially one with this level of hype.
• Cultural Appeal: For Dr Disrespect fans, it’s more than a drink—it’s a piece of the persona, a taste of “violence, speed, and momentum.”

Weaknesses

• Youthful Simplicity: The lack of an age statement and the light, grain-forward profile suggest a younger whiskey that lacks the depth of more mature expressions.
• Overhyped Price Perception: Some reviewers argue it’s worth $30–$40, not $65, given its simplicity—a fair critique for bourbon purists.
• Limited Availability: The small-batch nature means it’s tough to find, and secondary market prices can soar, diminishing its value proposition.

Community Reactions: What the Bourbon World Thinks

The bourbon community, particularly on platforms like Reddit’s r/bourbon, has been vocal about Black Steel. A 2022 review by u/DM_me_feet_pics_plz gave it a 6/10, praising its smoothness but calling it overpriced for the quality.

“Commendable for a first product from someone with no bourbon history,” they wrote, “but very overpriced. $30-$40 range at best.” Others echoed this sentiment, with comments like “good, but nothing to kill yourself to get” and “suspicious with celebrity liquors.” Yet, there’s an undercurrent of respect for its execution—many expected a cash-grab disaster akin to Conor McGregor’s Proper No. Twelve, only to find a decent, if unremarkable, bourbon.

Later reviews of Batch #2 (released in 2023) suggest consistency, with users like u/Tauti on Whiskybase noting its buttery mouthfeel and recommending it at retail price. YouTube reviewer Brewzle also gave Batch #2 a nod, highlighting its smoothness and approachability. The consensus? It’s not a game-changer, but it’s far from a failure.

Cultural Impact: Bourbon Meets the Digital Age

Black Steel Bourbon’s success isn’t just about the liquid—it’s about the story. Dr Disrespect’s outsized persona, with over 4 million YouTube subscribers, turned a niche spirit into a cultural phenomenon. The initial batch sold out in under four hours, crashing the website and sparking a frenzy on social media. Beahm’s promotional video, where he sheds the mullet and armor to pour a glass in a suit, blends his theatrical flair with a surprising sincerity, resonating with fans and skeptics alike.

This isn’t just a bourbon; it’s a crossover event. It bridges the gap between gaming culture and whiskey fandom, tapping into a younger demographic that might not otherwise explore bourbon. In a market dominated by heritage brands, Black Steel’s irreverence feels fresh—even if the whiskey itself doesn’t reinvent the wheel.

Is It Worth It?

So, should you hunt down a bottle of Black Steel Bourbon? It depends.

• For Dr Disrespect Fans: Absolutely. It’s a must-have piece of memorabilia that doubles as a solid drinking experience. At retail ($65), it’s a no-brainer.
• For Bourbon Enthusiasts: Maybe. If you can snag it at retail and enjoy lighter, fruit-forward bourbons, it’s worth a try. But don’t pay secondary prices ($130+)—it’s not that special.
• For Casual Drinkers: Yes, if you stumble across it. It’s smooth, versatile, and fun—perfect for sipping or mixing without overthinking it.

Final Score: 7.5/10

Black Steel Bourbon earns a solid 7.5 out of 10. It’s not the deepest or most complex bourbon on the shelf, but it delivers on its promise of smoothness and personality. The collaboration between Beahm and Eaves yields a whiskey that’s greater than the sum of its parts—a testament to smart sourcing, clever blending, and a dash of madness. It won’t dethrone the likes of Blanton’s or Pappy, but it doesn’t need to. Black Steel is content to carve its own lane, one sip at a time.

Conclusion: A Bourbon for the Bold

Black Steel Bourbon is more than a celebrity gimmick—it’s a bold experiment that mostly succeeds. It brings a fresh perspective to a staid category, blending Kentucky craftsmanship with a modern, unapologetic edge. Whether you’re a “Two-Time” diehard or a bourbon skeptic, there’s something here to appreciate. It’s not perfect, but it’s undeniably distinctive—a fitting tribute to the man who claims it “tastes like winning.” As Beahm and Eaves continue to release batches, Black Steel could evolve into a cult classic. For now, it’s a fascinating detour in the bourbon landscape, and one worth exploring if you can get your hands on it. Cheers to that.