Review: Beyke’s Blue Bourbon

Brian Beyke has carved out a respected name for himself in the bourbon community, both online and off. Known to many through his social media presence as @abandonbourbon, Beyke’s reputation is built on authenticity, deep industry connections—including with the founders of Seelbach’s and Pursuit Spirits—and, most importantly, a genuine passion for bourbon.

That passion traces back to a formative childhood memory: His father showing him a photo of a Beyke Farms truck delivering corn to the Charles Medley Distillery in Owensboro, Kentucky. Even then, Beyke was struck by the idea that his family’s crops could be part of a bourbon enjoyed across the country. Years later, the distillery, which had gone dormant, would be revived as Green River Distilling—setting the stage for a full-circle moment.

In a twist of fate, Green River Distilling approached Beyke with a unique opportunity: to collaborate on a heritage grain bourbon using blue corn grown in Kentucky. The result is Beyke’s Blue, a Kentucky straight bourbon distilled with the standard Green River mashbill—70% corn, 21% winter rye, and 9% six-row malted barley—but with a key distinction. Instead of the typical yellow dent #2 corn, this bourbon is made entirely from blue corn, not blended, offering an heirloom flavor profile from start to finish.

Distilled by Jacob Call before his departure to launch Western Kentucky Distilling in Hartford, Kentucky, Beyke’s Blue was aged for 6.5 years—primarily in Owensboro, with the final months spent in Jacksonville, Florida—before being bottled at 112 proof.

Blue corn bourbons, while uncommon, aren’t unheard of. But they often veer into overly earthy or funky territory, making them more novelty than nuanced. With Call’s distilling expertise and Beyke’s careful blending, does Beyke’s Blue strike the right balance? Is it just another experiment—or something truly exceptional?

Beyke’s Blue Bourbon Review

The nose begins with a floral burst of honeysuckle blossoms in early spring. As that note settles, a clear and unexpected aroma of frosted blueberry Pop Tarts takes center stage, followed by cherry cordials and a resinous amber character. Right away, it’s apparent that Beyke’s Blue sets itself apart from other blue corn bourbons. The aroma is well-structured and engaging, free from the overpowering earthiness that often defines the category.

The palate opens with blackberry and the flavor of southern pralines—boiled just long enough to bring out a darker, caramelized edge without crossing into burnt territory. This adds weight and character, anchoring the sip. A trace of spearmint appears mid-palate, and the bourbon’s thick mouthfeel contributes to a slow, deliberate progression of flavor. As the tasting advances to the finish, the blackberry note carries forward and is quickly joined by coffee, cola, and a subtle vanilla tone.

Entering the experience expecting earthy or offbeat notes, Beyke’s Blue proves to be unexpectedly composed. The blue corn’s natural profile enhances rather than distracts, working in step with the oak to create a cohesive and mature flavor. Aged 6.5 years, Beyke’s Blue delivers a presence that suggests greater age. The relationship between grain and barrel is handled with care, avoiding harshness or imbalance. Without question, this stands as the most complete and impressive blue corn bourbon I’ve tasted.

112 proof.

A- / $80

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