Rev Up The IPA Engines
Bear republic’s Racer 5 IPA has been on my list for a few months at least. I had heard from several viewers/readers that it was a great IPA. Unfortunately, they don’t distribute here in Georgia. Luckily when we were in Asheville, NC I found it at Bruisin Ales and picked up some to smuggle back into Georgia. Here is the review:
Racer 5 is a great IPA. It has everything an IPA needs. The hops are bitter but not resinous. The flavor is slightly sweet with a lot of floral and “fresh pine forest”. The aftertaste is definitely bitter but not harsh. Everything in Racer 5 is balanced and complimentary. This is an IPA that any hophead should try. I know I will be buying some more from the brewery and have it shipped to me, it’s that good. I’ve had a couple of IPA’s that were a tad better, but this is right there with the best.
Here’s the score:
1. Appearance- 8 points (out of 10)
2. Smell- 8 points (out of 10)
3. Taste- 18 points (out of 20)
4. Drinkability- 8 points (out of 10)
Total 42 (out of 50) Points-4 Mugs
Well, guess who popped up on my Google Ads. Nicely done review. This a great Western IPA. It is nice and floral with citrus (grapefruit) added in.; please do not forget the robust, caramel malt sweetness. The best part about his brew is that you can find it almost anywhere. That is the sign of a great IPA: taste and availability.
http://www.left4beer.com/2008/12/racer-5-ipa-and-bailout.html
Great review. I’ve heard a lot of good things about this beer and early next year I hope to get out to North California for a little beer trip taking in some Bear Republic along with Russian River and a few others around that way.
Flaviu,
Thanks for commenting. I really liked the Racer 5. It is, like you said, very well balanced. Unfortunately it’s not available here in Georgia so if I want more I’ll have to travel out of state or order directly from them. I do have another bottle in the cellar to try later.
Hi Mark,
You will love N. California. I haven’t been there in 10 years but we’re planning on going back soon. The beers, and wine obviously, are great. Hopefully you can get to Russian River and be lucky enough to find some Pliny The Younger!