Pliny The Elder is more than just a name—it’s a legendary brew that has captured the hearts of craft beer lovers worldwide. Known for its bold hop character and perfectly balanced bitterness, this iconic double IPA sets the standard for what a West Coast-style beer should be. Originating from Russian River Brewing Company, Pliny The Elder has become a benchmark for hop-forward beers, inspiring countless homebrewers and enthusiasts.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to recreate this classic at home. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer or just starting out, you’ll appreciate how the right blend of hops and malt can deliver that unmistakable Pliny flavor. Let’s dive into crafting a beer that pays homage to one of the most celebrated IPAs in craft brewing history.
Ingredients
To craft the iconic Pliny The Elder double IPA, we must gather the precise Ingredients that contribute to its bold hop profile and balanced malt backbone. Below is a detailed list organized by use and preparation:
Malt Bill
- 10 lbs Pale Malt (2-Row) – provides the main fermentable sugars and clean malt character
- 1 lb Vienna Malt – adds a subtle toasty malt flavor and amber hue
- 1 lb CaraPils/Dextrine Malt – contributes to head retention and body without adding sweetness
Hops
The hop schedule is crucial for achieving the signature bitterness and aromatic profile:
| Hop Variety | Amount | Usage | Alpha Acids (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbus (Tomahawk) | 1.5 oz | 60 minutes (bittering) | 15-16 |
| Centennial | 1.5 oz | 20 minutes (flavor) | 10-12 |
| Simcoe | 1 oz | 20 minutes (flavor/aroma) | 12-14 |
| Amarillo | 1 oz | Whirlpool (steep after boil) | 8-11 |
| Cascade | 1 oz | Whirlpool (steep after boil) | 5-7 |
| Simcoe | 1 oz | Dry hop (5-7 days) | 12-14 |
| Amarillo | 1 oz | Dry hop (5-7 days) | 8-11 |
| Centennial | 1 oz | Dry hop (5-7 days) | 10-12 |
Yeast
- Wyeast 1056 American Ale or White Labs WLP001 California Ale Yeast – clean fermentation profile to allow hop character to shine
Water Profile
- Use soft to moderately hard water with a balanced sulfate-to-chloride ratio to enhance hop bitterness without masking malt sweetness.
“The hop blend and timing are key to replicating Pliny The Elder’s distinctive flavor. Each hop addition layers complexity from bittering to aroma and finally dry hopping for a fresh, resinous finish.”
By preparing these ingredients accurately, we lay the foundation for a classic West Coast double IPA brimming with vibrant fruitiness, pine, and citrus notes balanced by a firm yet smooth malt base.
Equipment Needed
To successfully brew Pliny The Elder at home, having the right equipment is crucial for maintaining control over each step of the process. Below is a detailed list of the essential tools and equipment pieces we recommend to replicate this iconic double IPA accurately.
Brewing Vessel
- Brew kettle (at least 7 gallons capacity) for boiling the wort, ensuring enough room for hop additions and preventing boil-overs.
- Fermentation vessel such as a glass carboy or food-grade plastic fermenter (6-gallon minimum) to allow proper yeast activity and fermentation control.
Heating and Cooling
- Heat source (electric or gas burner) with adjustable control for consistent boiling temperature.
- Wort chiller (immersion or counterflow) to rapidly cool the wort to yeast pitching temperature, minimizing infection risk and preserving hop aroma.
Measurement and Control Instruments
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hydrometer or Refractometer | Measure wort gravity to track fermentation progress and final ABV |
| Thermometer | Monitor mash, boil, and fermentation temperatures with precision |
| pH meter or Strips | Check mash pH to ensure optimal enzymatic activity |
Brewing Accessories
- Mash tun with false bottom or manifold for efficient grain lautering and lautering consistency.
- Siphoning tubes and auto-siphon for easy transfer of liquid without oxygen contamination.
- Sanitizer (such as Star San) for disinfecting all equipment parts to prevent contamination.
- Brew paddle or spoon made of food-grade material for stirring grains and wort.
Packaging Gear
- Bottling bucket with spigot for easy bottling without disturbing sediment.
- Bottles or kegs for final packaging.
- Capper and caps or keg connectors depending on your packaging preference.
Summary Table of Equipment
| Equipment Category | Specific Equipment | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brewing Vessel | Brew kettle (7+ gallons), fermentation vessel | Sized for 5-gallon batches |
| Heating & Cooling | Heat source, wort chiller | Quick and controlled cooling |
| Measurement & Control | Hydrometer/refractometer, thermometer, pH meter | Essential for recipe accuracy |
| Brewing Accessories | Mash tun, siphoning tubes, sanitizer, brew paddle | Facilitate brewing and hygiene |
| Packaging Gear | Bottling bucket, bottles/kegs, capper | Final stage equipment |
Having these tools ready and sanitized puts us in the best position to replicate the intricate malt and hop profile that defines Pliny The Elder, controlling every variable from mash temperature to fermentation and packaging. This precision ensures each batch embodies the signature bold bitterness, vibrant pine, and citrus notes we’ve come to expect from this legendary West Coast double IPA.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To ensure we capture the bold hop character and balanced bitterness that define Pliny The Elder, precise preparation is essential. Follow these steps to set yourself up for successful brewing.
1. Prepare the Malt Mash the Day Before
- We recommend crushing the Pale Malt, Vienna Malt, and CaraPils/Dextrine Malt and mashing them with water 12 to 24 hours in advance.
- Use a controlled temperature of 152°F (67°C) to optimize enzymatic activity.
- Let the mash rest during this time to develop the malt profile that supports Pliny’s smooth backbone.
2. Pre-Measure and Portion Hops
Separating and labeling hop additions ensures proper timing during the boil. Prepare hop batches for:
- Bittering hops (Centennial, Columbus, or similar)
- Flavor hops (Simcoe, Amarillo)
- Aroma hops (Citra, Mosaic)
| Hop Type | Prep Notes | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Bittering | Weigh and seal in air-tight bags | As per recipe |
| Flavor | Portion for mid-boil additions | As per recipe |
| Aroma | Prepare for whirlpool/dry hop | As per recipe |
3. Sterilize Equipment in Advance
- Sanitize the fermentation vessel, siphons, bottles, and any tools overnight or several hours before use.
- Proper sanitation protects against contamination allowing the yeast to deliver clean fermentation.
4. Prepare Yeast Starter 24-48 Hours Ahead
- Create a yeast starter using the recommended strain to ensure optimal fermentation.
- This will promote vigorous yeast activity, crucial for authentic Pliny yeast characteristics.
5. Adjust Water Profile Early
- Begin adjusting your water minerals (calcium, sulfate, chloride) at least a day in advance.
- This step enhances hop extraction and complements the overall taste profile.
“Planning ahead with precise prep helps us capture the crisp and vibrant fruitiness balanced by a solid malt foundation that makes Pliny The Elder iconic.”
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions we streamline the brewing day focusing on hop additions and fermentation control, ensuring our version of Pliny The Elder hits every note with confidence.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to brew our rendition of Pliny The Elder, capturing its bold double IPA character with precision and care.
Prep Work
- Day Before Brewing:
- Prepare the malt mash as outlined in the ingredient list.
- Pre-measure all hops according to the hop schedule, labeling each batch with its addition time.
- Sterilize all brewing equipment thoroughly to prevent contamination.
- Create the yeast starter to ensure healthy fermentation.
- Adjust the water profile, targeting a balanced mineral content supportive of Pliny The Elder’s crisp finish.
Brewing Process
- Mash the Malts:
- Heat water to 152°F (67°C).
- Add crushed pale malt, Vienna malt, and CaraPils/Dextrine malt.
- Maintain mash temperature at 152°F for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sparge and Boil:
- Sparge with hot water to collect wort until desired volume is reached.
- Bring wort to a rolling boil for 60 minutes.
- Hop Additions:
| Time (min) | Hop Variety | Amount (oz) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | Columbus | 1.5 | Bittering |
| 45 | Centennial | 1.0 | Flavor |
| 15 | Simcoe | 1.0 | Aroma and flavor |
| 10 | Amarillo | 1.0 | Aroma |
| 0 (Flameout) | Citra | 1.5 | Aroma and dry hop |
| Dry Hop 1 (Day 3) | Centennial, Simcoe, Amarillo, Citra | 1.0 each | Aroma enhancement |
| Dry Hop 2 (Day 7) | Citra, Simcoe | 1.5 each | Fresh hop aroma |
- Chill Wort:
- Use a wort chiller to reduce temperature rapidly to 68°F (20°C).
Fermentation
- Transfer cooled wort to the sanitized fermentation vessel.
- Pitch the recommended yeast strain evenly.
- Ferment at 68°F (20°C) for 10 to 14 days, monitoring temperature closely.
- Add dry hops as per schedule on Day 3 and Day 7, gently stirring the fermenter to distribute.
- Allow the beer to condition for an additional 3 to 5 days post dry hopping for optimal hop integration.
Bottling and Carbonation
- Prepare sanitizing solution and sanitize all bottling equipment.
- Transfer beer into bottling bucket, avoiding sediment.
- Add priming sugar (approximately 4 oz) to the beer for natural carbonation.
- Fill bottles leaving 1-inch headspace and cap securely.
- Store bottles at 68°F (20°C) for 2 weeks to carbonate fully.
- Chill before serving and enjoy your bold Pliny The Elder inspired double IPA!
Serving Suggestions
To fully appreciate our Pliny The Elder recreation, pairing it with the right foods and serving techniques is essential. This iconic double IPA features a vibrant hop bitterness and rich malt backbone, which influence the best serving methods.
Ideal Glassware
We recommend serving Pliny The Elder in a tulip-shaped glass or a nonic pint glass. These shapes concentrate the aromas and support a lively head, enhancing the expression of pine, citrus, and floral hop notes. Proper glassware amplifies the sensory experience, allowing us to truly savor the beer’s complex bouquet and balanced bitterness.
Serving Temperature
Serve the beer at around 45-50°F (7-10°C). This temperature range preserves the hoppy brightness and reveals subtle malt nuances without dulling the flavors. Chilling below this range risks muting the delicate aromatic profile that defines Pliny The Elder.
Food Pairings
The bold hop character and crisp bitterness demand foods with equally robust flavors. Here are some excellent pairing options to highlight the beer’s complexity:
| Food Category | Examples | Reason for Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Meats | Grilled sausages, spicy BBQ chicken | Cuts through fat and spices, complements heat |
| Sharp Cheeses | Aged cheddar, blue cheese | Balances bitterness with creamy saltiness |
| Rich Seafood | Seared salmon, ahi tuna tartare | Accentuates citrus notes, adds freshness |
| Bitter Greens | Arugula salad, kale chips | Enhances hop bitterness, adds texture |
Serving Tips
- Pour gently, leaving about an inch of head to release hop aromas.
- Avoid over-oxygenation which can dull bitterness and freshness.
- Let the beer breathe briefly to open up complex hop notes.
- Clean and rinse the glass before use to avoid residue affecting taste.
“Proper serving is the final step in honoring the craft of this legendary double IPA.” Let’s toast to our success in brewing and savoring the bold, balanced excellence of Pliny The Elder.
Storage Tips
Proper storage of Pliny The Elder is essential to preserve its vibrant hop character and maintain the bold bitterness that defines this classic double IPA. Here are key steps to ensure our homemade brew stays fresh and flavorful.
1. Maintain Ideal Temperature
We recommend storing Pliny The Elder at a consistent temperature between 38°F and 50°F (3°C to 10°C). This cool environment slows down oxidation and hop degradation, preserving the beer’s bright citrus and pine notes.
| Storage Temperature | Effect on Beer |
|---|---|
| Below 38°F (3°C) | May dull hop aromas when too cold |
| 38°F – 50°F (3-10°C) | Optimal balance: retains aroma and flavor |
| Above 50°F (10°C) | Accelerates staling and bitterness loss |
2. Avoid Light Exposure
Pliny The Elder is highly sensitive to light. Exposure to UV rays causes “skunky” off-flavors by breaking down hop compounds. We store our bottles in a dark place or inside opaque containers to protect the beer’s integrity.
“Light-struck beer suffers a chemical reaction that ruins the hop aroma – keep Pliny The Elder in the dark to keep it perfect.”
3. Store Upright
Keeping bottles upright reduces oxygen exposure at the cap and minimizes sediment disturbance. This position helps maintain carbonation stability and overall clarity.
4. Consume Fresh
To fully enjoy the signature bold hop aroma and balanced bitterness, we suggest drinking Pliny The Elder within 3 to 6 months of bottling. The hop profile starts to diminish after this period, so freshness is key.
| Time After Bottling | Beer Quality |
|---|---|
| 0-3 Months | Peak hop aroma and freshness |
| 3-6 Months | Slight reduction in hop intensity |
| 6+ Months | Noticeable hop degradation and flavor fading |
5. Use Proper Seal and Packaging
Ensure bottles are sealed tightly with fresh caps or corks to prevent oxidation. For kegged versions, maintain proper CO2 pressure and avoid oxygen ingress during transfers.
By following these precise Storage Tips for Pliny The Elder, we can safeguard the beer’s robust hop character and enjoy every sip as intended in our homebrew recreation.
Conclusion
Brewing Pliny The Elder at home is a rewarding challenge that brings the iconic double IPA experience right to our doorstep. With the right ingredients, equipment, and attention to detail, we can capture its bold hop character and balanced malt backbone.
Taking the time to prepare ahead and follow precise steps ensures our brew matches the complexity and vibrancy that makes Pliny The Elder a favorite. Storing and serving it properly will keep those fresh, hoppy notes shining through every pour.
This recipe not only honors a craft beer legend but also invites us to deepen our brewing skills and enjoy the process from start to finish. Cheers to creating something truly exceptional together!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pliny The Elder beer known for?
Pliny The Elder is renowned for its bold hop character, balanced bitterness, and vibrant fruit, pine, and citrus notes. It sets the standard for West Coast-style double IPAs.
Which malts are used in brewing Pliny The Elder?
The malt bill includes Pale Malt, Vienna Malt, and CaraPils/Dextrine Malt to create a smooth malt base that balances the hops.
What hops are key to Pliny The Elder’s flavor?
Careful timing of multiple hop additions is crucial, using varieties that deliver bitterness and aromatic profiles typical of West Coast IPAs.
What equipment do I need to brew Pliny The Elder at home?
Essential equipment includes a brew kettle, fermentation vessel, wort chiller, heat source, hydrometer, and thermometer to control the brewing process.
How can I prepare in advance for brewing this beer?
Prepare the malt mash a day early, pre-measure hops, sterilize equipment, create a yeast starter, and adjust water profile before brewing day.
What are the important steps in the brewing process?
Key steps include mashing, sparging, boiling with hop additions, fermentation, and bottling—each stage timed to capture the beer’s distinct flavor.
How should Pliny The Elder be served?
Serve in tulip or nonic pint glasses at 45-50°F (7-10°C) to enhance aroma and flavor, supporting a lively head and hoppy brightness.
What foods pair well with Pliny The Elder?
Pair with spicy meats, sharp cheeses, rich seafood, or bitter greens to complement its bold bitterness and complex flavor profile.
How should I store Pliny The Elder homebrew?
Store upright in a cool, dark place between 38-50°F (3-10°C), avoid light, use airtight seals, and consume within 3-6 months for best freshness.
Can beginners brew Pliny The Elder at home?
Yes, the recipe and detailed instructions are designed for both beginners and experienced brewers, emphasizing key techniques and equipment.