Russian River Pliny the Elder Imperial IPA | Double IPA 8%

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

4.5Untappd

Pliny the Elder pours a brilliant, clear golden amber with a dense, persistent white head that clings to the glass in thick sheets of lace — a visual hallmark of this West Coast icon from Russian River Brewing Company in California. On the nose, the beer is an aromatic showcase of American hops: vibrant grapefruit zest, resinous pine, fresh floral blossoms, and a subtle undercurrent of earthy citrus pith. The palate is built on a deceptively firm malt backbone that tempers the beer’s assertive 100 IBU bitterness without ever letting sweetness overstay its welcome.

Medium-bodied with brisk, lively carbonation, Pliny the Elder moves through the mouth cleanly and precisely, delivering waves of lemon zest, pine resin, and stone fruit before arriving at a long, dry, impeccably clean finish. First brewed by Vinnie Cilurzo in 1999, this Double IPA remains one of the most celebrated beers in American craft history. Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Untappd with over 306,000 ratings, it is best enjoyed as fresh as possible — a philosophy Russian River prints directly on every bottle. Discover more at the official Untappd page: https://untappd.com/b/russian-river-brewing-company-pliny-the-elder/4499

Food Pairing

Russian River Pliny the Elder is a natural partner for bold, fat-rich dishes that can stand up to its signature hop intensity. Pair it with a dry-aged beef burger layered with sharp cheddar and caramelised onions, where the beer’s citrus bitterness cuts cleanly through the richness. Equally rewarding alongside slow-smoked pulled pork tacos with pickled jalapeño, allowing the pine and grapefruit notes of this Double IPA to amplify the smoky, spiced meat.

Russian River Brewing Company Pliny the Elder