Sonoma County Harvest Fair Awards Bear Republic Brewing Company for Excellence in the Craft Beer Industry

SANTA ROSA, Calif. – September 30, 2014 – World-class, handcrafted ales served in the heart of Wine Country are the hallmarks of Bear Republic Brewing Company, and are the notable qualities that have earned it the first-ever Sonoma County Harvest Fair Award for Excellence in the Craft Beer Industry.

“We’re thrilled to be recognized by the Sonoma County Harvest Fair for our fresh, never filtered handcrafted beers,” says Bear Republic’s Richard Norgrove, Senior. “Our beers are brewed and aged following time tested and proven methods. We hand select only the choicest ingredients for each batch and use specialty grains and hops chosen for their unique characteristics,” he adds.

Located on the corner of Healdsburg’s historic downtown square, Bear Republic Brewing Company was established in 1995 by the Norgrove family, including third and fourth generation Sonoma County residents Richard and Sandy, along with their son Richard Jr. (Ricardo) and his wife Tami. Bear Republic offers a diverse menu, family friendly atmosphere and more than 14 freshly brewed beers on tap. In 2006, the family opened their Factory Five Brewery in Cloverdale, just 15 miles north of the original brewpub in Healdsburg. As of 2014, Bear Republic is recognized by the Brewers Association as the 36th largest craft brewery in the United States.

“Bear Republic and the Norgrove family were chosen for this inaugural award based on the creativity and innovation they have displayed in their craft beer enterprise,” says Katie Fonsen Young of the Sonoma County Harvest Fair. “They are a vanguard in their industry, respected by fellow Sonoma county craft brew leaders and demonstrate strong community involvement,” she adds.