Pliny the Elder

Pliny the Elder from Russian River Brewing Company in California is one of the most iconic Double IPAs ever brewed, a benchmark for hop-forward intensity that still manages balance. At 8.0% ABV, 100 IBU, about 260 calories, and 25 g of carbs per 12 oz, it’s a bold beer in every way. Its calorie-to-ABV ratio of ~32.5 kcal per 1% ABV shows it packs a punch while staying in line with other strong IPAs.

Flavor & Aroma

Pouring a golden-amber hue with a frothy white head, Pliny the Elder bursts with resinous pine, bright grapefruit, orange peel, and hints of floral hops. On the palate, it delivers waves of citrus and dank, sticky hop bitterness, balanced by a firm but restrained malt backbone. The finish is long, dry, and lingering, with a resinous edge that keeps hopheads coming back.

Nutritional Profile

ABV: 8.0%

IBU: 100

Calories: ~260 per 12 oz

Carbs: ~25 g per 12 oz

Calorie-to-ABV Ratio: 32.5 kcal per 1% ABV

Style Context

As one of the first commercially successful Double IPAs, Pliny the Elder helped set the standard for modern West Coast hoppy beers. Unlike sweeter, malt-heavier strong ales, it emphasizes hop aroma and bitterness without tipping into imbalance, making it a model for the style that countless brewers have since followed.

Pairings & Occasions

Food Pairings: Spicy Thai curry, buffalo wings, sharp cheddar, pepperoni pizza, or BBQ ribs.

Best Enjoyed: Fresh (it’s famously recommended to drink as soon as possible), ideally with other hop lovers, at beer festivals, or alongside bold, flavorful foods that can stand up to its intensity.

Fun Fact

Pliny the Elder is named after the Roman naturalist who wrote extensively about hops in the first century AD. Russian River Brewing also honors him with a rarer, even bolder Triple IPA called Pliny the Younger, which is released once a year to massive demand.