Discover Russian River Brewing: Pliny The Elder & More
What makes a brewery legendary? Its more than just hops and barley; its vision, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of flavor. Russian River Brewing Company embodies this ethos, a testament to the transformative power of craft brewing.
The story begins not with beer, but with bubbles. In 1997, amidst the redwood-studded hills of Guerneville, California, Korbel Champagne Cellars, a name synonymous with sparkling wine, made a surprising foray into the world of brewing. They tapped Vinnie Cilurzo, a brewer with a distinct passion, to lead the charge. This seemingly unlikely partnership would ignite a revolution in the craft beer scene, forever changing the landscape of American brewing.
| Name | Vinnie Cilurzo |
|---|---|
| Born | 1964 |
| Occupation | Brewmaster, Co-Owner of Russian River Brewing Company |
| Known for | Pliny the Elder, Blind Pig IPA, pioneering sour beers in the US |
| Career | Started at Blind Pig Brewing Co., then became Brewmaster at Russian River Brewing Company (initially under Korbel), eventually purchasing the brewery with his wife Natalie. |
| Reference | Russian River Brewing Company Official Website |
Cilurzo's arrival marked a turning point. His fascination with Belgian lambics, particularly the complex character imparted by Brettanomyces yeast, led him to experiment with local wine barrels in 1999. These experiments birthed a series of groundbreaking sour beers, introducing American palates to a world of tart, funky, and utterly captivating flavors. This pioneering spirit would become a hallmark of Russian River.
While Cilurzo had brewed a Double IPA at Blind Pig Brewing Co. in 1994, it wasnt until years later that this style would find its iconic expression at Russian River. The now-legendary Pliny the Elder, named after the Roman author and naturalist, was born from meticulous research, countless brainstorming sessions, and a relentless dedication to perfection. This beer, with its explosive hop aroma and balanced bitterness, became a benchmark for the style and cemented Russian Rivers place in craft beer history. The Elder, as it's affectionately known, inspired countless imitations, but none could replicate the magic of the original.
The brewerys offerings extend beyond IPAs. From the crisp, refreshing STS Pils, a German-style Pilsner, to the nuanced Beatification, a wild ale aged to perfection, Russian Rivers diverse portfolio caters to a wide range of tastes. Even the seemingly simple Velvet Glow, a Helles-style lager, showcases the brewerys commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Their dedication to reviving forgotten hop varieties, like Brewers Gold used in their collaboration with CLS Farms, further underscores their innovative approach.
In 2004, Vinnie and his wife, Natalie Cilurzo, took a leap of faith, purchasing the brewery from Korbel. This marked the beginning of Russian River Brewing Company as we know it today. Under their leadership, the brewery continued to flourish, expanding its reach and influence. The opening of their second location in Windsor, California, in the fall of 2018 signaled a new chapter in their story, allowing them to increase production and share their passion with an even wider audience.
Visiting a Russian River brewpub is an experience. Whether youre a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious newcomer, the vibrant atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and, of course, the exceptional beer, create an unforgettable experience. From the bustling taproom in Santa Rosa to the expansive Windsor location, the energy is palpable. Be prepared to wait, though, as the popularity of these establishments often leads to lines. But for those who patiently queue, the reward is well worth the wait.
The impact of Russian River Brewing Company extends far beyond its brewpubs. Their beers are distributed across multiple states, bringing their unique flavors to a wider audience. Their commitment to quality and innovation has not gone unnoticed, garnering countless awards and accolades. But perhaps their greatest achievement lies in their ability to inspire and connect with people through the shared love of craft beer.
From champagne cellars to craft beer royalty, the story of Russian River Brewing Company is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and a deep respect for the art of brewing. It's a story that continues to unfold, with each new beer a testament to their unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavor and redefining what it means to be a truly great brewery. And with their commitment to growlers, even those bearing other brewery logos (with proper obscuring, of course), they extend their hospitality and embrace the communal spirit of craft beer.
So, the next time you raise a glass of Pliny the Elder, Blind Pig, or any other Russian River creation, take a moment to appreciate the journey behind each sip. Its a journey that began with a simple question: what if? And the answer, as it turns out, is something truly extraordinary.
![[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)
