Pliny the Elder: The Beer That Broke the Internet

If you’ve been in craft beer for more than five minutes, you’ve heard the name. Russian River Brewing’s Pliny the Elder isn’t just a Double IPA — it’s the benchmark every other DIPA gets measured against, whether they like it or not.Pours a clear, deep gold with a white head that means business. The aroma hits you immediately: grapefruit, pine resin, a little mango hiding in the back like it’s trying to seem casual. It’s not casual. Nothing about this beer is casual.The first sip is a masterclass in balance. Big hop bitterness — and we mean big — but the malt backbone keeps it from tipping into “why would anyone drink this” territory. At 8% ABV it’s deceptively smooth. You’ll be halfway through your second one before you remember you had plans tonight.The Verdict: If Pliny the Elder is on tap somewhere near you, cancel whatever you’re doing. ★★★★★