San Francisco Beer Week is in full swing and the Hapa’s Crew has been taking full advantage of the special events. This also happens to be the time of year Russian River Brewing Co. releases its famous Pliny the Younger. Only served on draft at the brewery and a select few watering holes around the Bay Area, Pliny the Younger spottings are known to cause beer nerds to flock like teenage girls to a Justin Bieber concert.
The Hapa’s crew caught wind of one such release at 4th Street Bar and Grill and geeked out like any self respecting beer nerd. Fortunately for us lines at the bar were not too long and we were able to enjoy two 8oz. pours before the kegs were cashed. (Our scheduled review of 21st Amendment’s Monk’s Blood is forthcoming next week).
Appearance
Golden honey in color. Bright and very clear. Thin head which was likely due to the bartender’s desire to fill the glass to the top in lieu of pouring a proper beer. Despite the pour, thin lacing managed to coat the glass.
Aroma
No hiding the robust hopping in this Triple IPA. Strong notes of pine and resin are coupled with citrus notes of grapefruit and blood orange. Floral fruit aromas subtlety play in the background and include apricot and peach.
Taste
As expected a bold hop punch floods the mouth. Despite a triple dosing of hops, the bitterness is smooth and lingers on the sides and back of the tongue. Decidedly hop forward beer with notes of damp grass, pine, and freshly cut hay. Very little malt character, but bitterness is countered with citrus, tropical fruit, and a slight alcohol sweetness.
Mouthfeel
Medium bodied beer that holds more weight in the mouth that would be expected of a beer with 10.5% ABV. Carbonation is light to medium and tickles the tongue.
Drinkability
What more can be said about this legend of the craft beer world? A hop lovers dream. Big bold flavors keep you wanting for the next sip and the scarcity of the beer make it all the better when you finally get one. Pliny the Younger is to cult beer what The Big Lebowski is to cult movies: an absolute must! Overall grade for Russian River Brewing Co. Pliny the Younger: A+
Pliny the Younger
Up next on Tuesday Tasting: 21st Amendment Brewery Monk’s Blood