Bear Republic Black Racer IPA (8.1% ABV / 75+ IBUs): Winner of a 2011 GABF Bronze Medal and a 2012 World Beer Cup Gold Medal, Black Racer “blends Bear Republic’s love of hops with the Pacific Northwest’s appreciation for dark ales”.  This beer pours a clear, dark black color with a barely detectable red hue.  Black Racer has a persistent tan foam that creates a nice lace.  The beer has a sweet malt and coffee aroma that is followed with citrus and dark chocolate.  Black Racer is medium-bodied with mild carbonation (think IPA, not stout).  One sip delivers an explosion of delicious roasted malt, dark chocolate and coffee flavors that are backed with citrus and bourbon-like undertones and the emergence of a deceptively strong hops bitterness.  Black Racer IPA demonstrates a masterful integration of flavors.  Drink this beer and you will be seduced by the Dark Side, as I was.