As a friend of mine pointed out I did not plan the launch of my quest very well. My refrigerator is empty and I started with one of the easiest IPAs to find in the Bay Area. (Hence, I had a Lagunitas IPA on tap at the 49ers game but it did not count) Instead I had to stop at the local market and choose from their selection. Fortunately one of my all time favorite beers is made just north of here in Healdsburg. Racer 5 is made by Bear Republic Brewing Company. For a west coast IPA I think it is perfect. It starts with a nice Hop Aroma full of the taste that it is to come. The taste is bitter with just enough malt to take the edge off. It is not as balanced as other IPAs but that is what I love about it. It has an excellent Hop flavor all the way through.