When I first heard Ninkasi Brewing was making Beer Run IPA, it was pretty clear I had to get my hands on a bottle. Named for the Sumerian goddess of fermentation, Ninkasi is based in Eugene, Oregon, a town synonymous with running. The brewery actually sponsors US Olympic runners and the founder is an avid runner himself, so it is natural that they would make a beer with the runner in mind. They used their athletes as well as casual runners to perfect Beer Run, holding 25 group runs across the country that ended with a sample of the test batch. After collecting comments and suggestions, the final product debuted May 1st and is now available as a special release wherever Ninkasi is available.

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So the concept is awesome, but how is the beer you ask? Absolutely delicious! It is a well-balanced IPA that starts with a taste of gentle citrus but is quickly followed by malty sweetness. All of this gives way to a bitter backbone that dries the mouth and prepares you for the next sip. To top it off Beer Run is dry hopped, the process of adding hops to the fermenter during primary or secondary fermentation, adding a blast of hoppy aroma.

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The flavors are big, especially when you consider what is normally served after a run. And I sure hope brews like this start showing up after any race or casual stroll. I know at least one person who would run even more if this was guaranteed to be at every finish line, and that’s me!

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