Pliny the Elder
Russian River Brewing Company
ABV
8.0%
IBU
100
Origin
Santa Rosa, California
Colour
Deep Golden
Pliny the Elder is widely regarded as one of the greatest beers ever brewed. Created by Vinnie Cilurzo at Russian River Brewing Company, it is the beer that defined the modern Double IPA style. Named after the ancient Roman naturalist who first documented hops, Pliny is brewed with an enormous quantity of hops — Centennial, CTZ, Simcoe, and Amarillo — added at multiple stages to create a beer of extraordinary complexity and balance. Despite its 8% ABV and 100 IBUs, it drinks with a deceptive smoothness that keeps you reaching for another sip.
Aroma
Intensely hoppy with tropical fruit, pine, and citrus. A subtle malt backbone supports without intruding.
Appearance
Clear deep gold with a persistent white head. Beautiful lacing on the glass.
Taste
Explosive hop flavour — tropical, piney, citrusy — balanced by a firm but not overwhelming bitterness. Clean malt sweetness in the finish.
Mouthfeel
Medium-full body, silky smooth, moderate carbonation. Deceptively easy to drink for 8% ABV.
Overall
The benchmark Double IPA. Every sip is a masterclass in hop balance. Seek it out fresh — it's worth the effort.
Flavour Notes
Pairs With
- Spicy Thai curry
- Aged cheddar
- Grilled salmon
- Barbecue ribs
Community Score
4.9
18,420 ratings