Bear Republic Working On Racer Zero Non-Alcoholic IPA

Today I have an interesting new entry in the growing non‑alcoholic craft beer market, and it’s coming from Bear Republic Brewing in Cloverdale, California. The brewery is preparing to launch Racer Zero, a brand‑new non‑alcoholic IPA designed for drinkers who want full hop character without the alcohol.

Racer Zero will ride in at less than 0.5% ABV, placing it firmly within the modern NA IPA category while still delivering the bold, West‑Coast‑leaning hop profile Bear Republic is known for. This release continues the trend of established craft breweries expanding into non‑alcoholic beer with flavorful, session‑friendly options.

Interestingly, Racer Zero will be packaged in 12‑oz cans by Belching Beaver Brewery in Oceanside, California, highlighting a cross‑brewery production partnership that’s becoming more common in the NA space.

Stay tuned for full release details, tasting notes, and additional insights as Bear Republic prepares to roll out this new non‑alcoholic IPA.

About Bear Republic Brewing:

Founded in 1995 in Healdsburg, California, by the Norgrove family, Bear Republic Brewing Company is a renowned independent craft brewery famous for pioneering West Coast IPAs, particularly the award-winning Racer 5 IPA. In 2023, they partnered with Drake’s Brewing Company to manage operations, focusing on sustainability and quality, with production headquartered in Cloverdale. 


Flagship Beer: Racer 5 IPA is their most famous, highly awarded IPA. Other popular brews include Red Rocket Ale and Thru the Haze.

Acquisition/Partnership: In February 2023, Drake’s Brewing Company acquired Bear Republic’s recipes and intellectual property, with production shifting to their partnership, although the Norgroves remain involved.

Awards: The brewery has won over 500 awards, including multiple honors from the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup.

Sustainability: Bear Republic is known for eco-friendly practices, including solar power, water conservation, and an anaerobic digester that converts wastewater into energy.

Locations: While they originated in Healdsburg, operations moved towards a larger facility in Cloverdale, California, to increase production capacity.

Brand Presence: They are known as a “family-run” business focused on Sonoma County brewing roots, with products sold across California and several other states. 

Bear Republic has historically held a strong, independent identity in the California craft beer scene, with a focus on bold, hoppy, and high-quality ales.

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