Pliny the Elder Double American India Pale Ale (8% ABV): As noted on the Russian River Brewery website, “Pliny, the man, lived in the first century – 23 to 79 A.D. According to our brewing references, he and his contemporaries either created the botanical name or at least wrote about Lupus Salictarius, or hops, currently known as Humulus Lupulus. That was a very early reference to an important part of any Double IPA!”  First released in 2000, Pliny the Elder Double IPA is now one of Russian River’s flagship beers and is recognized by prestigious publications such as Beer Advocate as world-class.  This beer pours a slightly hazy copper gold color with white foam that leaves a beautiful lace down the glass.  Pliny the Elder has a big aroma of evergreens, cut grass, and citrus.  The beer is medium-bodied  with a rich feeling on the palate and delightfully mild carbonation.  Pliny the Elder is very smooth with sweet malt and biscuit flavors that are accompanied by assertive but integrated hops flavors that include pine resin, citrus, floral notes, nuts, and tropical fruits.  There is a great dry finish with lingering bitterness.  The alcohol is excellently integrated.  Sometimes cults are born for a valid reason.