Fans of Bear Republic Brewing Co. in Cloverdale have more reason to celebrate after the brewery picked up two medals at the Great American Beer Festival in Denver on Saturday.

The company is releasing its Racer X double India pale ale this week and it will be available on tap at its Healdsburg brewpub on Friday. The seasonal release is one of the most anticipated by fans of Bear Republic, building upon the hoppy taste of its flagship Racer 5 IPA. It has a Beer Advocate rating of 95 out of 100.

Peter Kruger, Bear Republic’s master brewer, said in a statement this year’s Racer X version is drier “and because of this, the hops really pop.”

To locate a nearby retailer that sells Racer X, visit www.bearrepublic.com/bear-tracker.

Those venturing to Bear Republic’s brewpub also will be able to sample the two beers that won medals at the Great American Beer Festival. The brewery and Occidental home brewer Michael Kelly won a gold model in the Pro-Am competition for its Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Scottish 80 Shilling, a Scottish style ale. Bear Republic’s Double Aught pilsner also won a bronze medal in the festival’s Bohemian Style Pilsner category. Both are available until supplies last.

Bear Republic has overall won 21 medals at the competition, which is one of the country’s most prestigious beer festivals.

– Bill Swindell