Pliny the Elder, a name that resonates with beer enthusiasts worldwide, is a double India Pale Ale (IPA) brewed by Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa, California. This iconic beer has garnered a cult following and is consistently ranked among the top beers globally. In this article, we will delve into the world of Pliny the Elder, exploring its history, characteristics, brewing process, and what makes it a truly exceptional beer.
A Brief History of Pliny the Elder
Pliny the Elder was first brewed in 2000 by Vinnie Cilurzo, the co-founder and brewmaster of Russian River Brewing Company. Cilurzo, a pioneer in the craft beer movement, aimed to create a beer that would showcase the unique characteristics of hops. The beer was named after Pliny the Elder, a Roman author and naturalist who wrote about the medicinal properties of hops in his book “Naturalis Historia.”
The Inspiration Behind Pliny the Elder
Cilurzo’s inspiration for Pliny the Elder came from his experience brewing at Blind Pig Brewing Company in the 1990s. During this time, he experimented with various hop varieties and brewing techniques, which ultimately led to the creation of Pliny the Elder. The beer was designed to be a hoppy, full-bodied IPA that would appeal to beer enthusiasts and critics alike.
Characteristics of Pliny the Elder
Pliny the Elder is a double IPA that boasts an impressive array of characteristics, making it a standout in the world of craft beer.
Appearance and Aroma
Pliny the Elder pours a golden-orange color with a thick, creamy head that leaves a lasting lace on the glass. The aroma is a complex blend of citrus, pine, and floral notes, with a hint of sweetness.
Flavor and Mouthfeel
The flavor profile of Pliny the Elder is a masterful balance of hoppy bitterness and malty sweetness. The beer is brewed with a blend of hops, including Simcoe, Centennial, and CTZ, which provide a citrusy and piney flavor. The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy, with a medium body that makes it easy to drink.
ABV and IBU
Pliny the Elder has an ABV of 8% and an IBU of 100, making it a robust and full-bodied beer. The high IBU rating is a testament to the beer’s hoppy character, which is balanced by the malty sweetness.
The Brewing Process
The brewing process of Pliny the Elder is a closely guarded secret, but we can provide some insight into the general process.
Malt and Hops
Pliny the Elder is brewed with a blend of specialty malts, including pale malt, wheat malt, and crystal malt. The beer is hopped with a blend of Simcoe, Centennial, and CTZ hops, which provide the citrusy and piney flavor.
Brewing and Fermentation
The brewing process involves a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The beer is brewed in a brewhouse using a combination of steam and direct fire. The fermentation process takes place in stainless steel tanks, where the beer is fermented with a blend of yeast strains.
Awards and Accolades
Pliny the Elder has received widespread critical acclaim and has won numerous awards, including:
- Best Double IPA in the World by Beer Advocate
- Top 10 Beers in the World by RateBeer
- World Beer Cup Gold Medal in the Double IPA category
Conclusion
Pliny the Elder is a truly exceptional beer that has captured the hearts of beer enthusiasts worldwide. Its unique blend of hoppy bitterness and malty sweetness, combined with its smooth and creamy mouthfeel, make it a standout in the world of craft beer. Whether you’re a seasoned beer critic or just starting to explore the world of craft beer, Pliny the Elder is a must-try.
Where to Find Pliny the Elder
Pliny the Elder is available in limited quantities at Russian River Brewing Company’s taproom in Santa Rosa, California. The beer is also distributed to select retailers and restaurants in California and other states. If you’re unable to find Pliny the Elder in stores, you can try checking with local beer retailers or online beer shops.
Final Thoughts
Pliny the Elder is a beer that has transcended the world of craft beer, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Its impact on the craft beer movement cannot be overstated, and it continues to inspire brewers and beer enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy beers or just looking to try something new, Pliny the Elder is a must-try. So, go ahead and indulge in a pint of Pliny the Elder – your taste buds will thank you.
What is Pliny the Elder beer?
Pliny the Elder is a double India Pale Ale (IPA) brewed by Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa, California. It is named after the Roman author and naturalist Pliny the Elder, who lived in the 1st century AD. The beer is known for its complex flavor profile, which balances a rich, malty sweetness with a bold, hoppy bitterness.
Pliny the Elder is brewed with a blend of hops, including Amarillo, Centennial, CTZ, and Simcoe, which provide a citrusy, floral, and piney flavor. The beer is fermented with a proprietary yeast strain that contributes to its unique character. With an ABV of 8%, Pliny the Elder is a full-bodied beer that is both refreshing and satisfying.
What makes Pliny the Elder so highly regarded?
Pliny the Elder is widely regarded as one of the best beers in the world, and its reputation can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the beer’s complex flavor profile, which balances a rich maltiness with a bold hoppiness, has captivated the palates of beer enthusiasts. Additionally, the beer’s consistency and quality have been maintained over the years, thanks to Russian River Brewing Company’s commitment to using only the finest ingredients and adhering to traditional brewing methods.
Another factor contributing to Pliny the Elder’s reputation is its rarity. The beer is brewed in limited quantities, and its distribution is restricted to certain regions, making it highly sought after by beer enthusiasts. This scarcity has contributed to the beer’s cult status, with many beer aficionados regarding it as a “holy grail” of craft beer.
What is the difference between Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger?
Pliny the Younger is a triple IPA brewed by Russian River Brewing Company, and it is the younger sibling of Pliny the Elder. While both beers share a similar flavor profile, Pliny the Younger is brewed with a higher proportion of hops, resulting in a more intense bitterness and a more pronounced hop flavor. Additionally, Pliny the Younger has a higher ABV than Pliny the Elder, at 10.25%.
Another key difference between the two beers is their availability. Pliny the Younger is brewed only once a year, in February, and its release is highly anticipated by beer enthusiasts. In contrast, Pliny the Elder is brewed year-round, although its distribution is still limited. Overall, while both beers are highly regarded, Pliny the Younger is considered a more extreme version of Pliny the Elder.
How should I store and serve Pliny the Elder?
To fully appreciate the flavor and aroma of Pliny the Elder, it is essential to store and serve the beer properly. The beer should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The ideal storage temperature for Pliny the Elder is between 40°F and 50°F (4°C and 10°C).
When serving Pliny the Elder, it is recommended to pour the beer into a glass, rather than drinking it from the bottle. This allows the beer’s complex aromas to be released, and its flavor profile to be fully appreciated. The beer should be served at a temperature between 45°F and 55°F (7°C and 13°C), and it is best paired with food that complements its hoppy flavor, such as spicy dishes or strong cheeses.
Can I brew a clone of Pliny the Elder at home?
While it is possible to brew a clone of Pliny the Elder at home, it is a challenging task that requires a high degree of skill and expertise. Russian River Brewing Company’s brewmaster, Vinnie Cilurzo, has revealed some of the beer’s ingredients and brewing methods, but the exact recipe remains a trade secret.
However, many homebrewers have attempted to clone Pliny the Elder, using a combination of research, experimentation, and trial and error. To brew a successful clone, it is essential to use high-quality ingredients, including a blend of hops that approximates the original, and a yeast strain that is similar to the one used by Russian River Brewing Company. Additionally, attention to detail and a commitment to quality are essential to producing a beer that is worthy of the Pliny the Elder name.
Is Pliny the Elder available in bottles or cans?
Pliny the Elder is available in bottles, but not in cans. Russian River Brewing Company has chosen to package the beer in 500ml bottles, which are designed to showcase the beer’s complex flavor profile and aroma. The bottles are also equipped with a crown cap, which helps to preserve the beer’s carbonation and flavor.
While some beer enthusiasts may prefer the convenience of cans, Russian River Brewing Company’s decision to package Pliny the Elder in bottles is a deliberate choice that reflects the beer’s premium quality and craftsmanship. The bottles are also highly collectible, and many beer enthusiasts regard them as a prized possession.
Can I visit the Russian River Brewing Company brewery?
Yes, the Russian River Brewing Company brewery is open to visitors, and it offers a unique opportunity to experience the brewing process firsthand. The brewery is located in Santa Rosa, California, and it features a tasting room, a gift shop, and a brewhouse where visitors can observe the brewing process.
Visitors to the brewery can take a guided tour, which provides a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and the history of the brewery. The tour also includes a tasting of Russian River Brewing Company’s beers, including Pliny the Elder. Additionally, the brewery’s gift shop offers a wide range of merchandise, including T-shirts, glassware, and beer-themed accessories.