Discover Pliny The Elder: Russian River's IPA
What defines a truly iconic craft brewery? It's more than just hops and barley; it's a blend of innovation, passion, and a dedication to quality that resonates with beer lovers worldwide. Russian River Brewing Company embodies this ethos, crafting exceptional beers that have solidified its place as a leader in the industry.
From its humble beginnings in 1997 under the wing of Korbel Champagne Cellars in Guerneville, California, to its current status as a craft beer mecca in Santa Rosa and Windsor, Russian River has consistently pushed the boundaries of brewing. Their commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of their operation, from the meticulous selection of ingredients to the innovative brewing techniques employed by Brewmaster Vinnie Cilurzo.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Vinnie Cilurzo |
| Born | Teaneck, New Jersey |
| Occupation | Brewmaster, Co-owner of Russian River Brewing Company |
| Known for | Pioneering double IPAs and sour beers in the United States. Developing and popularizing the Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger IPAs. |
| Career | Started homebrewing in the 1980s. Brewed at Blind Pig Brewing Company before joining Russian River. Took over Russian River from Korbel in 2003. |
| Notable Beers | Pliny the Elder, Pliny the Younger, Blind Pig IPA, Supplication, Temptation |
| Reference | Russian River Brewing Company Website |
This dedication is palpable from the moment you step into their brewpub. The aroma of hops hangs heavy in the air, a tantalizing preview of the sensory experience to come. Whether youre a seasoned IPA aficionado or a curious newcomer exploring the world of sours, Russian River offers a diverse selection to satisfy any palate.
Take, for instance, their flagship Pliny the Elder, a double IPA that has achieved legendary status. Its complex hop profile and balanced bitterness have garnered countless accolades and a devoted following. Then theres Pliny the Younger, a triple IPA released annually in February, which generates a frenzy of anticipation and long lines of eager enthusiasts. The Younger is a testament to Cilurzos mastery of hops, showcasing their vibrant and nuanced flavors.
Beyond IPAs, Russian Rivers sours are equally impressive. Supplication, a wild ale aged in Pinot Noir barrels, offers a complex tapestry of fruit, funk, and oak. Temptation, another barrel-aged sour, delights with its tart cherry notes and subtle hints of vanilla. These beers exemplify the brewery's commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavor and challenging traditional brewing conventions.
Russian River's influence extends beyond its own taps. Their meticulous approach to brewing, their dedication to quality, and their innovative spirit have inspired countless other breweries and helped shape the craft beer landscape. They offer a range of growler sizes 32 oz., 64 oz., and 128 oz. ensuring beer lovers can take home their favorite brews in pristine condition. They even accommodate other breweries branded growlers, provided the logos are covered. Distribution spans several states, including California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Maine, bringing their acclaimed beers to a wider audience.
From their classic STS Pils, a crisp and refreshing German Pilsner, to the robust Shadow of a Doubt Imperial Porter, Russian River Brewing Company offers a beer for every occasion. Their dedication to using high-quality ingredients, like the century-old Brewers Gold hops revived in collaboration with CLS Farms, shines through in every sip. This collaborative effort showcases not only a respect for brewing tradition but also a commitment to innovation, combining modern growing and kilning techniques with cutting-edge brewing methods.
While their beers are undoubtedly the stars of the show, the Russian River experience is further enhanced by their welcoming brewpubs. Whether youre enjoying a pint at their Santa Rosa location or soaking in the ambiance of their Windsor pub, the atmosphere is lively and convivial. Reservations are recommended for larger parties, as their popularity often leads to wait times. This is a testament to the enduring appeal of Russian River, a brewery that has truly earned its iconic status in the world of craft beer. From the meticulously crafted beers to the passionate team behind them, Russian River Brewing Company continues to raise the bar, inviting us all to savor the art of exceptional brewing.
![[S2/E45] Russian River Pitch Please Four Brewers](https://www.fourbrewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Russian-River-Brewing-Company-Pliny-The-Elder-Small-1.jpg)
