Discover Russian River Brewing Pliny The Elder Renowned among craft beer enthusiasts, Russian River Brewing's Pliny The Elder is a quintessential example of a Double IPA, celebrated for its bold hop flavors and balanced bitterness. This iconic brew has cemented Russian River Brewing Company's status as a pioneer in the craft beer industry, attracting beer aficionados eager to experience its complex flavor profile. To explore more about this legendary beer, visit Ojai Beverage Company at 655 East Ojai Avenue, Ojai, CA 93023 or check out their selection online at ojaibeveragecompany.com. Background on Russian River Brewing Pliny The Elder Russian River Brewing Company's Pliny The Elder is an iconic Double India Pale Ale (IPA) that has captivated beer enthusiasts since its inception and set a new standard for hop-forward brews. Vinnie Cilurzo, the visionary brewmaster behind Pliny The Elder, first introduced this groundbreaking beer in 2000, drawing inspiration from his earlier experiments with hop-heavy ales at Blind Pig Brewing Company. The beer's name pays homage to Pliny the Elder, a Roman naturalist and philosopher who first identified hops in his writings, adding a layer of historical significance to this contemporary brew. Pliny The Elder's reputation has grown exponentially over the years, earning it a coveted spot among the most sought-after craft beers in the world and inspiring countless breweries to push the boundaries of hop utilization in their own creations. Product Deep Dives Pliny The Elder Pliny The Elder is a full-bodied Double IPA crafted by Russian River Brewing Company, renowned for its intense hop character and citrus aromas. With a high IBU of 100 and 8.0% ABV, this golden-hued beer is a favorite among hop enthusiasts. The unique blend of Amarillo, Centennial, CTZ, Cascade, Warrior, and Simcoe hops contributes to its flavor profile, setting it apart from other offerings. This hop-forward brew pairs exceptionally well with spicy or savory foods, as its bold flavors complement intense culinary experiences. Pliny The Elder is available in 6-packs and 22-ounce bottles, with prices typically ranging from $21 to $55. Its complex hop profile and citrus notes make it a great option for those seeking an unparalleled IPA experience. Consecration Consecration is a dark sour ale aged in Cabernet Sauvignon barrels, showcasing Russian River Brewing Company's expertise in crafting complex brews. This flagship offering boasts a rich flavor profile with notes of dark fruit, oak, and a tangy finish, appealing to those who appreciate robust and intricate beer styles. The barrel-aging process imparts unique characteristics that set it apart from hop-centric offerings. Ideal for pairing with rich, savory dishes like lamb or robust cheeses, Consecration's nuanced taste can also be savored on its own. Available in 6-packs and 22-ounce bottles, this beer falls within the $21 to $55 price range. Its attributes cater to drinkers who seek a departure from traditional beer flavors, offering a journey through layers of taste and aroma. Sanctification Sanctification is a golden ale from Russian River Brewing Company, fermented with a blend of East Coast ale yeast and brettanomyces. This popular sour beer is characterized by its unique flavor profile, featuring notes of citrus, tropical fruit, and a slightly funky finish. Highly regarded among sour enthusiasts, Sanctification offers a balanced and refreshing taste experience. The beer's complexity makes it an excellent companion for lighter fare such as salads or seafood. Available in standard sizes like 6-packs and 22-ounce bottles, Sanctification is priced between $21 and $55. Its fermentation process results in a brew that can be appreciated both as an accompaniment to meals and as a standalone beverage, allowing the nuances of its flavor to shine. Supplication This brew is celebrated for its slightly sour taste, featuring notes of dark fruit, oak, and a tangy finish. Supplication's balanced yet intricate character has earned it high regard among sour beer aficionados. Perfect for pairing with rich, savory dishes or robust cheeses, this beer also stands on its own as a sensory experience. Offered in 6-packs and 22-ounce bottles, Supplication falls within the $21 to $55 price range. Its barrel-aging process imparts a depth of flavor that appeals to those seeking a sophisticated and multifaceted beer drinking experience. Beatification Beatification is a Belgian-style golden ale from Russian River Brewing Company, fermented with brettanomyces to create a harmonious blend of funk and fruit flavors. This beer offers a refreshing yet complex experience, with notes of citrus, tropical fruit, and a subtle funk, making it a favorite among discerning beer connoisseurs. Ideal for accompanying lighter dishes like salads or seafood, Beatification's unique profile also makes it a go-to choice for solo enjoyment. Available in 6-packs and 22-ounce bottles, this beer is priced between $21 and $55. The fermentation process results in a brew that showcases the artistry of Russian River's brewing techniques, appealing to those who appreciate innovative and flavorful craft beers. The History and Evolution of the Double IPA Style The Double IPA style, exemplified by Pliny The Elder, has a rich history that dates back to the early days of craft brewing. Vinnie Cilurzo, the brewmaster behind Pliny The Elder, first experimented with Double IPAs at Blind Pig Brewing Company in 1994. The Inaugural Ale, brewed with high-quality hops and a significant malt bill, marked the beginning of this bold and hoppy beer style. This pioneering effort set the stage for a new wave of hop-forward beers that would dominate the craft beer scene. The influence of hops in creating the bitterness and aroma associated with Double IPAs cannot be overstated, as it was this style that pushed the boundaries of hop usage and flavor profiles in beer. As the Double IPA style gained popularity, it became a benchmark for other breweries to experiment with their own versions. The success of Pliny The Elder inspired a generation of brewers to push the limits of hoppy beers, leading to a proliferation of Double IPAs that continue to evolve and innovate today. The style's prominence reflects the innovative spirit of brewers like Vinnie Cilurzo, who dared to challenge conventional brewing practices and create something truly unique. The evolution of the Double IPA style has been marked by continuous experimentation with hop varieties, brewing techniques, and flavor profiles. This ongoing innovation has kept the style fresh and exciting, ensuring its enduring popularity among beer enthusiasts. The legacy of Pliny The Elder serves as a reminder that in the world of craft beer, creativity and experimentation are key to creating truly exceptional brews. The Role of Hops in Pliny The Elder's Unique Flavor Pliny The Elder's flavor profile is heavily influenced by the specific types of hops used in its brewing process. Russian River Brewing Company, known for its meticulous selection of high-quality hops, sources these ingredients from around the world to achieve the beer's signature citrus and pine notes. The use of dry hopping, a technique where hops are added to the fermenter after primary fermentation, significantly enhances the hop flavors and aromas in Pliny The Elder. This method allows for a more pronounced expression of the hops, contributing to the beer's complex and layered flavor profile. The hop-forward character of Pliny The Elder has become a defining feature of the Double IPA style. Hop enthusiasts worldwide appreciate the beer's balanced yet intense bitterness and aroma, which are a direct result of the careful selection and use of hop varieties. The combination of citrus, pine, and other hop-derived flavors creates a unique drinking experience that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying. This focus on hop flavor has not only set a standard for Double IPAs but has also inspired other breweries to explore the full potential of hops in their own brews. Cultural Significance and Fan Community of Pliny The Elder Pliny The Elder has a cult-like following within the craft beer community and among beer aficionados. The annual release events for this beer are highly anticipated, drawing fans from around the world. The beer's reputation as a sought-after brew is underscored by the lengths to which fans will go to acquire it. The cultural impact of Pliny The Elder extends beyond its own fan base, contributing to the larger narrative of craft beer as a social and cultural phenomenon. The beer's influence can be seen in the way it has inspired a community of enthusiasts who share a passion for unique and high-quality brews. The annual release events, often featuring live music and food, have become a celebration of craft beer culture, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among attendees. This phenomenon highlights the power of beer to bring people together and create memorable experiences. Learn more about Russian River Brewing Pliny The Elder at Ojai Beverage Company Pliny The Elder is a unique blend of hops, complex flavor profile, and cultural significance that have cemented its position as a favorite among enthusiasts and a source of inspiration for brewers. For those yet to experience Pliny The Elder, it is a must-try for any craft beer aficionado looking to appreciate one of the finest examples of the style. To explore Pliny The Elder and other exceptional craft beers, visit Ojai Beverage Company at 655 East Ojai Avenue, Ojai, CA 93023, or connect with them at https://ojaibeveragecompany.com, (805) 646-1700, or OBConline@yahoo.com.
