I'll take the bait.
Steel Reserve is my favorite malt liquor-- and I've tried most all of them. I've discussed the matter with a friendly bum once and we both agreed it is far superior to old english, colt 45, hurricane, etc. I've liked Mickey's too ever since having dinner at a place with an extensive wine list, but Mickey's was the only beer. That said, at 5.6% it really shouldn't be classed with the other high gravity beers.
A person's particular taste is always influenced by experience and Steel Reserve will always be associated with Phil and Friends at Jonesbeach. A beautiful summer day, my buddies and I killed a twelve pack of Yuengling much to quickly and as we heading into the venue we came across a guy selling Steel Reserve cans (24oz) for $1.25. Something about the circumstances... me just wanting one more beer and this guy selling big cans for such a strange (who tailgates with loose change?) and cheap price.
I don't know, maybe Steel Reserve needs to be consumed in a Mcdonalds cup to full appreciate its potent, economical splendor. I've had worse beers and I've paid a good deal more money for them.