Bear Republic Apex
I don’t come across too many brews from California’s Bear Republic, but that doesn’t bother me all that much — that is, until I stop seeing one of my favorites from them on shelves. Hop Rod Rye is a stellar beer and the cause for picking up any product from the company that I haven’t yet encountered. If that beer is so good, then it seems quite plausible that anything else the brewery produces should impress, as well.
At 8.95% ABV, Apex certainly does not disappoint. This big, fruity Double IPA isn’t really a new beer, but this is the first time we’ve crossed paths.
It’s a prototypical, hop-forward IPA that can only originate from the West Coast. Luscious tropical fruits, resin and a smooth malt backbone come together effortlessly. All without a palate-wrecking wallop of bitterness. Apex is about the most drinkable Double/Imperial IPA that I’ve enjoyed in quite some time.
Appearance
A small cap of tawny foam caps the golden brew for a few minutes before dropping to a full ring around the surface.
Aroma
Pine resin, pineapple, tangerine, orange peel, grapefruit and a touch of cattiness combine for a pungent, yet smooth smelling brew — thanks to a light malt presence in the background.
Taste
The hops arrive immediately with tropical fruits (pineapple, tangerine, mango), grapefruit and resin. The hop flavors give way cleanly to an initial burst of bitterness that is then reined in nicely with a bit of crackery, bready malts. The hop bitterness remains at a moderate-to-high level throughout the experience, but never overwhelms the senses. At the elevated level of alcohol, Apex is bound to leave a warming trace after each swallow, which it does of course, but does so at an appropriate level so as to not impact the overall character of the beer.
Overall
Apex is a big, hoppy Double IPA. It’s packed with fruity citrus, light malt notes and, considering its size, fairly good balance. The hop bite is at just the right level. My only real complaint with this beer is that I didn’t buy nearly enough of it.
Rating: 4.25/5
