The craft beer industry, long celebrated for its creativity and community-driven ethos, is facing a new challenge in 2025: President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs. These sweeping trade measures, including a universal 10% tariff on imports and targeted levies of up to 25% on steel, aluminum, and goods from Canada and Mexico, have sent shockwaves through the brewing world. For an industry already grappling with shifting consumer preferences and post-pandemic recovery, the tariffs could reshape the landscape of American craft beer. (See our previous article – Trump’s Tariffs, posted November 2024.)

Trump’s Tariffs and How They Might Impact Craft Brewing

The Tariffs Explained

President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs aim to protect domestic industries by imposing broad import taxes. However, their impact on craft brewing is particularly severe due to the industry’s reliance on imported materials:

• Aluminum Cans: A 25% tariff on imported aluminum directly affects breweries that use cans for packaging. Nearly all cans used by U.S. brewers are sourced internationally, making this tariff a major cost driver

• Steel Kegs: Most steel kegs used in American breweries are manufactured in Germany. The 25% tariff on finished steel products raises keg prices significantly

• Key Ingredients: Canadian barley and malt—essential for many craft beer recipes—are now subject to tariffs. Similarly, fruits like raspberries sourced from Mexico face increased costs

These tariffs come at a time when imports of beer and brewing materials are substantial. In 2024 alone, beer imports to the U.S. totaled $7.5 billion, with Mexico accounting for $6.3 billion of that figure. The ripple effects of these measures are being felt across the supply chain.

Economic Impact on Craft Brewers

The financial strain imposed by these tariffs is already apparent:

1. Rising Costs:

   • Breweries like Port City Brewing in Virginia report that their pilsner malt from Canada—essential to their recipes—is subject to a 25% tariff. Founder Bill Butcher estimates this could raise the price of a six-pack from $12.99 to $18.99

   • Monument City Brewing in Baltimore predicts similar price hikes for their beers due to increased costs for aluminum cans and imported barley

• Profit Margins Under Pressure:

  • Small breweries often operate with tight margins, leaving little room to absorb cost increases. Decisions such as passing costs onto consumers or cutting profitability are becoming unavoidable

  • Some brewers are stockpiling cans or switching packaging methods (e.g., painted cans instead of shrink-wrapped sleeves) to mitigate immediate impacts

• Export Challenges:

  • Canada, the largest foreign market for U.S. craft beer (accounting for 38% of exports), has retaliated with its own tariffs on American goods. Canadian consumers are boycotting U.S. beers, leading importers to cancel order.

  • 

    An Instagram post by Pints and Panels about Tariffs and Alcohol (courtesy of Em Sauter, of Pints and Panels)

Pennsylvania’s Brewing Scene: A Case Study

Pennsylvania has one of the largest craft brewing industries in the U.S., with over 400 breweries contributing significantly to local economies and communities. The state’s brewers are uniquely vulnerable to these tariffs due to their reliance on imported materials.

1. Material Costs:

   • Breweries in Pennsylvania often use imported aluminum cans and Canadian malt, both subject to tariffs. These cost increases could force smaller brewers to raise prices or reduce offerings.

2. Competitive Pressure:

   • Larger breweries like Molson Coors, which source materials domestically, may weather the tariffs better than smaller operations reliant on international supply chain.  Pennsylvania’s independent brewers must innovate or risk losing market share.

• Community Impact:

  • With higher beer prices looming, consumers may opt for cheaper alternatives like hard seltzers or cocktails—a trend already encroaching on craft beer sales. This could hurt local breweries that rely heavily on loyal customer bases.

Broader Industry Challenges

The Liberation Day tariffs exacerbate existing issues within the craft beer sector:

• Changing Consumer Preferences: Millennials and Gen Z are drinking less beer overall, favoring hard seltzers and ready-to-drink cocktails instead

• Post-Pandemic Recovery: Many brewpubs are still struggling to rebound from COVID-19 closures and reduced foot traffic

• Market Saturation: The number of breweries in the U.S. has grown rapidly over the past decade, leading to fierce competition for shelf space and consumer attention

A fun meme about Trump’s Liberation Day Tariffs and IPAs

What Lies Ahead?

Craft brewers are exploring strategies to adapt:

• Localization: Emphasizing local ingredients and branding could help breweries differentiate themselves in a crowded market.

• Innovation: Experimenting with new packaging methods or alternative ingredients may mitigate some tariff-related costs.

• Advocacy: Industry groups like the Brewers Association are lobbying for clarity on tariff rules and potential exemptions for critical brewing materials

For Pennsylvania’s brewers—and craft beer makers nationwide—the coming months will be pivotal in determining whether they can weather this storm or whether these tariffs will fundamentally alter the industry.

Conclusion

Trump’s Liberation Day tariffs have introduced unprecedented challenges for America’s craft beer industry, threatening its affordability and accessibility while squeezing small businesses already operating on razor-thin margins. As brewers grapple with rising costs and shifting consumer dynamics, their resilience will be tested like never before.

For beer lovers across the country—and especially in Pennsylvania—the question remains: How much are we willing to pay for our favorite pint?

There is definitely a lot more to all of this, and it will be unfolding. The Brewer’s Association covered much of this here: Trump Administration Slapping 25% Tariffs on Canned Beer Imports and Empty Can Imports from Across the Globe.

From Perplexity

The “Liberation Day” tariffs announced by President Trump, which include a universal 10% tariff on all imports and additional targeted tariffs on specific goods and countries, are expected to have significant implications for the U.S. craft brewing industry, particularly in states like Pennsylvania.

Impact on Craft Brewing Industry

• Increased Material Costs:

  • The tariffs include a 25% levy on imported steel and aluminum, which are critical for the production of cans and kegs used by breweries. Many craft brewers rely on aluminum cans and steel kegs imported from countries like Germany, meaning these tariffs will raise production costs significantly

• • Breweries that source ingredients such as barley, malt, or fruits from countries subject to reciprocal tariffs (e.g., Mexico) will face higher expenses, further straining their budgets

• Market Challenges:

  • With rising costs, some breweries may reduce their product offerings or shift packaging strategies, such as moving away from aluminum cans altogether. This could limit consumer choices and hurt smaller breweries that lack the resources to adapt quickly

  • Export markets for U.S. beer may also shrink due to retaliatory tariffs from other nations, particularly Canada, which is a major importer of American craft beer. Losing access to this market could be devastating for breweries in Pennsylvania that rely on exports

• Consumer Sentiment:

  • Economic uncertainty stemming from these tariffs may lead to reduced consumer spending on discretionary items like craft beer. This is especially concerning as the industry is already facing challenges from shifting consumer preferences toward hard seltzers and cocktails.

Final Thoughts

The brewing industry is already in trouble, I don’t want to say ‘dire straits’, but it is getting there. Breweries are closing somewhat regularly (some recent examples: Butler Brew Works, IMBib, Bucket Brigade, Gateway, and Little Mutants). The ever growing costs of doing business, let alone a business with so many different and varying costs – such as restaurant costs, brewing costs, distribution costs, etc, etc, etc. The brewing business is also heavily regulated in all aspects, which also have costs. All of these are major factors. Add this to a declining market, and as we’ve been saying “the bubble has definitely burst” on the craft brewing industry. This almost feels like a death knell to many. And I think is why we saw an increase of closures in the past months, in anticipation of it all. With the next generation of drinkers not completely on board with the craft beer industry, the older and tiring out generation settling for hop water, non alcoholics, and other form of alcohols, the industry is certainly shrinking.

One hopes this won’t be a final nail, the coffin being closed. But unfortunately we can’t do anything but ride it out, and find out, and see what time shows us.

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We are also now on BlueSky as well, so make sure to check us out there also. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of April 2025.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

As craft beer enthusiasts, we often focus on the latest hop varieties or innovative brewing techniques. However, there’s a less palatable topic brewing in the background that’s affecting our favorite local breweries: tariffs. Let’s dive into how Donald Trump’s trade policies have been shaking up the craft beer world.

Trump’s Tariffs and How They Might Impact Craft Brewing

Aluminum Woes: More Than Just a Can of Trouble

Remember when cans were the hot new thing in craft beer? Well, they still are, but they’re causing headaches for brewers. Trump’s 10% tariff on aluminum has hit the industry hard. It’s not just a drop in the bucket – the Beer Institute estimated a whopping $347 million tax increase on the beer industry due to these tariffs. Take Oskar Blues, for example. This Colorado-based craft brewery pioneer estimated the tariff would cost them an extra $400,000 per year. That’s a lot of potential new brews or taproom upgrades going down the drain!

Squeezing Profits Like a Dry-Hopped IPA

Craft breweries operate on tight margins as it is. With these added costs, they’re feeling the squeeze:

• Many breweries are struggling to pass on these costs to beer lovers (that’s us!).
• Some are having to rethink their growth plans or even consider job cuts.
• Competing with big beer is becoming even tougher, as the giants can more easily absorb these costs.

What’s on Tap for the Future?

As we look ahead, the future for craft breweries under these policies remains uncertain:

• If Trump were to be re-elected, we might see these tariffs stick around or even increase.
• Breweries might have to get creative with cost-cutting, potentially affecting the quality or variety of our favorite brews.
• The industry’s impressive job creation streak could slow down.

Bottom Line: It’s Not All Foam and Games

While we love to focus on the fun side of craft beer, it’s crucial to understand the challenges our local brewers face. These tariffs have effectively canceled out some of the tax benefits craft breweries were enjoying, creating a bitter economic brew. So, the next time you’re sipping on your favorite local IPA or stout, remember the complex world behind that delicious beverage. And maybe, just maybe, consider supporting your local craft breweries a little extra – they might need it more than ever. Cheers to hoping for clearer skies (and cheaper cans) for our craft beer community!

How Trump’s Trade Policies Are Impacting Craft Breweries

(Information, extrapolated using economists, analysts, and Donald Trump’s first term. All information is sourced and cited at the end of the article.)

Donald Trump’s tariffs have had significant implications for craft breweries in the United States:

Impact on Costs

The 10% tariff on aluminum imposed by the Trump administration has directly affected craft breweries’ production costs.

This is particularly impactful because:

• Many craft breweries have increasingly turned to aluminum cans for packaging their beer
• Aluminum is a major input cost for brewers, with cans accounting for a significant portion of packaging

The Beer Institute estimated that the aluminum tariffs resulted in a $347 million tax increase on the beer industry.

Effects on Business Operations

The tariffs have put strain on craft breweries in several ways:

• Reduced profit margins, as breweries often struggle to pass on increased costs to consumers
• Potential job losses across the beer industry
• Limitations on growth and investment in local communities

For example, Oskar Blues brewery estimated the tariff would cost their business an additional $400,000 per year.

Long-term Concerns

Craft brewers face ongoing challenges due to the tariffs:

• Difficulty competing with larger beer brands that can more easily absorb cost increases
• Potential need to cut costs in other areas, such as labor or ingredients
• Concerns about the industry’s ability to continue growing and creating jobs

Future Outlook

If Trump were to be re-elected, craft breweries could expect:

• Continuation or potential increase of existing tariffs on aluminum and steel
• Possible new tariffs that could further impact production costs

The tariffs have effectively negated some of the benefits craft breweries received from tax relief measures, creating a challenging economic environment for the industry.

Sources

• Craft breweries fear Trump’s tariffs will doom the boom (2018)
• How Will Trump’s Tariffs Impact Local Craft Brewers? (2018)
• President Trump’s Aluminum Tariff Would Harm Beer Industry, Stakeholders Say (2018)
• Tariffs and the Industry: Impacts of the Trade War on Wine, Beer & Spirits (Jan. 6th, 2020)
• Issues for craft breweries to watch under another Trump administration (2024)
• How would Trump’s tariffs impact large food & beverage firms? And what about USCMA? (2024)
• What Will Trump’s Tariffs Mean for Businesses? (2024)
• Donald Trump’s Tariffs Would Hit His Own Businesses (2024)
• Trump tariffs threaten billions in British exports (2024)
• Why Economists Hate Donald Trump’s Tariff Plan (2024)

See Also

• Exploring Ultra Right’s Limited Edition Conservative Dad’s Beer
• Debates to play a major role in Pennsylvania’s 2024 US Senate election – Republican Rally at The Beerded Goat
• Sticker Mule Makes Controversial Social Media Post
• Craft Beer and Election Day: Sipping Democracy in 2024

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We are also now on BlueSky as well, so make sure to check us out there also. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of August 2024.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

Designed for supporters of its ethos, it combines classic lager notes with a modern identity. For more details or to purchase, visit Ultra Right’s website.

A new limited edition can of the Conservative Dad’s Beer has been announced

Ultra Right Beer: Conservative Dad’s Limited Edition Can – A Beer with a Message

Ultra Right Beer has launched its limited edition “Conservative Dad’s Fight American Beer,” a six-pack that merges craft beer with a cultural statement. The can design, emblazoned with patriotic imagery, aligns with the brand’s commitment to challenging mainstream narratives in the beer industry.

Crafted as a traditional American lager, this beer invites supporters of its ethos to enjoy a drink that resonates beyond taste. For those curious about its flavor and philosophy, explore further on Ultra Right’s official site.

Ultra Right Beer’s limited edition “Conservative Dad’s Fight American Beer” isn’t just a beverage; it’s a cultural statement. The beer positions itself as an alternative to mainstream brands, aligning with conservative values and a pro-American ethos. The design of the cans, featuring patriotic imagery, reinforces its mission to resonate with its target audience.

The brand’s website emphasizes its goal of creating “100% Woke-Free American Beer” as a rallying point for those who feel underrepresented in the market. The beer itself is described as a straightforward American lager, providing a familiar and accessible flavor profile for casual drinkers and enthusiasts alike.

Beyond its taste, the beer serves as a rallying cry for cultural independence. Ultra Right Beer’s founder stated, “It’s more than a drink, it’s a movement.” The limited-edition release has drawn both supporters and critics, sparking broader discussions about how brands intersect with cultural identity.

(See Also: Dave McCormick to rally with statewide Republican candidates in Dauphin County at The Beerded Goat)

Craft beer is often associated with innovation and individuality, and this product underscores how breweries can leverage personal values and political stances to attract a specific audience. While some might see this beer as a polarizing choice, it’s clear that Ultra Right Beer is carving its niche in the craft beer world with a unique marketing approach.

For more on this product, or to purchase, visit Ultra Right Beer’s website.

From the website:

LIMITED EDITION COLLECTORS ITEM 

The most iconic image of all time memorialized on a can of America’s most patriotic beer.

Pre-Order. Ships approximately 60 days after order.

100% Made in America.

COLLECTIBLE: Our last limited edition can became one of the most collectible beer cans in American history,

NOT AN ENDORSEMENT (Legal BS to make our lawyers happy)
Use of a person’s name or likeness is not intended to imply an endorsement of Ultra Right Beer by that person.

Conservative Dad’s Beer – Limited Edition Can (Pre Order Page)

Comparisons to Politically-Influenced Beer Brands

Ultra Right’s approach recalls other beers that made cultural or political statements. Brands like BrewDog have used activism in their marketing, such as their “Make Earth Great Again” beer promoting environmentalism. Meanwhile, Anheuser-Busch faced backlash for their own political involvement earlier in 2024. These examples reveal how beer is more than a product; it can become a platform for discussion, advocacy, or controversy.

Craft beer has long been about individuality, and Ultra Right Beer demonstrates that ethos by addressing an underserved audience. Whether loved or critiqued, the limited-edition six-pack is part of a growing trend of brands engaging consumers on cultural and ideological levels.

Consumer Perceptions of Political Branding in Beer

The concept of politically-branded beer has seen a range of reactions. Supporters appreciate brands like Ultra Right Beer for representing their values in a market they feel often leans in the opposite direction. As one supporter of Ultra Right Beer noted, “It’s refreshing to see a product align with what I believe.”

However, political branding also invites scrutiny. Critics argue that tying beer to ideologies risks alienating potential customers. For example, brands such as Anheuser-Busch experienced both backlash and boycotts earlier this year when consumers felt their campaigns clashed with their beliefs.

Surveys on the topic reveal a split: while some consumers actively seek brands that resonate with their personal values, others prefer their beer—and their drinking experience—free from politics. The conversation highlights how deeply cultural and social influences affect purchasing decisions, especially in the craft beer world, which has traditionally celebrated diversity and innovation.

See Also

• Dave McCormick to rally with statewide Republican candidates in Dauphin County at The Beerded Goat

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of August 2024.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

Pliny the Elder by Russian River Brewing Company

Introduction

Pliny the Elder, brewed by Russian River Brewing Company, is one of the most celebrated Double IPAs in the craft beer world. Since its introduction, it has consistently ranked high on beer lists and won numerous awards. In this review, we’ll delve into what makes Pliny the Elder so special and whether it still holds up in 2024.

History and Background

Russian River Brewing Company, located in Santa Rosa, California, was founded by Korbel Champagne Cellars in 1997. Vinnie Cilurzo, the current owner and brewmaster, took over in 2003. Pliny the Elder, named after the Roman naturalist and historian who first documented hops, was one of the early trailblazers of the Double IPA style. Its creation set a new standard for hoppy beers and helped popularize the style.

Russian River Brewing Company

Russian River Brewing Company, founded in 1997 in Santa Rosa, California, has become a cornerstone of the American craft beer movement. Initially started by Korbel Champagne Cellars, the brewery underwent a significant transformation when Vinnie and Natalie Cilurzo took ownership in 2003. Under their stewardship, Russian River quickly garnered a reputation for producing high-quality, innovative beers. Vinnie Cilurzo, a pioneer in the industry, is credited with brewing the first commercially marketed Double IPA, which set the stage for the brewery’s future successes.

Russian River’s commitment to excellence is evident in their diverse beer portfolio, which includes both hop-forward beers and expertly crafted sour ales. Their flagship beer, Pliny the Elder, has become a benchmark for Double IPAs, celebrated for its balance and complex hop profile. In addition to Pliny, the brewery is renowned for its barrel-aged sour beers, such as Supplication and Consecration, which showcase their expertise in blending and aging. These beers have not only won numerous awards but also have captivated the palates of beer enthusiasts around the world.

Beyond their beer, Russian River Brewing Company has played a significant role in fostering a sense of community within the craft beer industry. They host the annual “Pliny the Younger” release, a much-anticipated event that draws beer lovers from across the globe to their Santa Rosa and Windsor locations. This dedication to community engagement extends to their philanthropic efforts, with the brewery regularly supporting local charities and causes. Through their commitment to quality, innovation, and community, Russian River Brewing Company continues to be a leader in the craft beer world, inspiring brewers and drinkers alike.

Russian River Brewing Company is a pinnacle in the craft beer community.

Appearance

Pliny the Elder by Russian River Brewing Company

Pliny the Elder pours a clear golden amber with a moderate, foamy white head that leaves a nice lacing on the glass. The beer’s clarity and color are immediately inviting, signaling a well-crafted brew. The head retention is impressive, maintaining a thin cap throughout the drinking experience, which enhances the visual appeal.

Aroma

The aroma of Pliny the Elder is a delightful bouquet of fresh pine, citrus, and floral notes. There’s a dominant scent of grapefruit and pine needles, complemented by subtle hints of malt sweetness. The aroma is robust and tantalizing, setting high expectations for the taste. As the beer warms, additional nuances of tropical fruits, such as mango and pineapple, become more apparent, adding to its complexity.

Taste

On the palate, Pliny the Elder delivers a complex yet balanced flavor profile. The initial taste is a burst of citrus and pine, with grapefruit and orange zest leading the way. As the beer settles on the mid-palate, notes of resinous pine and floral hops become more pronounced. The malt backbone provides a slight caramel sweetness that perfectly balances the hop bitterness. The aftertaste is clean and crisp, with a lingering bitterness that invites another sip.

What sets Pliny the Elder apart is its ability to be intensely hoppy without being overwhelming. The interplay between the hops and malt creates a harmonious balance that many Double IPAs struggle to achieve. Each sip reveals new layers of flavor, making it a beer that you can enjoy both quickly and thoughtfully.

Mouthfeel

Pliny the Elder has a medium body with a smooth, slightly dry mouthfeel. The carbonation is just right, providing a refreshing effervescence without being too fizzy. The beer feels well-rounded and satisfying on the tongue, making it easy to enjoy despite its higher alcohol content (8% ABV). The finish is dry and crisp, encouraging the next sip.

Overall Impression

Pliny the Elder lives up to its legendary status. It’s a well-balanced, flavorful Double IPA that showcases the best qualities of hops and malt. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or new to the world of IPAs, Pliny the Elder is a must-try. It’s no wonder this beer has remained a favorite among beer aficionados for years.

Rating: 9.5/10

Food Pairings

Pliny the Elder pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods. Here are some suggestions:

• Spicy Dishes: The beer’s hoppy bitterness can complement and cool down spicy foods like buffalo wings or spicy Thai curry.
• Grilled Meats: The citrus and pine notes enhance the flavors of grilled chicken, pork, or steak.
• Cheeses: Pair with aged cheddar or gouda for a delightful contrast between the beer’s bitterness and the cheese’s richness.
• Seafood: The beer’s bright, citrusy notes complement the delicate flavors of seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or fish tacos.
• Desserts: Try pairing with a citrus-based dessert like lemon tart to highlight the beer’s fruity notes.

Brewer’s Notes

Pliny the Elder was first brewed in 2000 and was one of the first commercially brewed Double IPAs. It is named after the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder, who first mentioned hops in his writings. The beer is brewed with Amarillo, Centennial, CTZ, and Simcoe hops, which contribute to its distinctive aroma and flavor. The brewing process involves multiple hop additions, including a generous dry hopping stage, to maximize the hop character.

Untappd notes: 8% ABV, 100 IBU, and has over 280,000 ratings, with a global average rating of 4.5.

Untappd description reads: “PLINY THE ELDER – (Double IPA) Brewed with Amarillo, Centennial, CTZ, Cascade, Warrior, and Simcoe hops. Well-balanced with malt, hops, and alcohol. Slightly bitter with aromas of citrus, pine, and floral”

Comparisons to Other Double IPAs

When comparing Pliny the Elder to other Double IPAs, its balance and drinkability stand out. While some Double IPAs can be overwhelmingly bitter or overly sweet, Pliny strikes a perfect harmony. Beers like The Alchemist’s Heady Topper or Tree House Brewing’s Julius offer different takes on the style, with Heady Topper leaning towards more intense bitterness and Julius showcasing juicy, fruity hop flavors. Pliny the Elder, however, maintains a classic profile that has stood the test of time.

Pliny the Elder and Nimble Giant are two highly esteemed Double IPAs that showcase the diverse approaches to the style by their respective breweries, Russian River Brewing Company and Tröegs Independent Brewing. Pliny the Elder is celebrated for its balanced profile, offering a harmonious blend of pine, citrus, and floral hop notes, supported by a subtle malt backbone that provides a smooth, drinkable experience despite its 8% ABV. Nimble Giant, on the other hand, leans towards a more robust and juicy hop character, with prominent tropical fruit flavors such as mango and pineapple, alongside resinous pine and a slightly sweeter malt presence. Both beers are exemplary in their own right, with Pliny the Elder appealing to those who appreciate a classic, well-balanced Double IPA, while Nimble Giant caters to those who enjoy a more fruit-forward, intense hop experience.

Consumer Opinions

Pliny the Elder has garnered a cult following over the years. Beer enthusiasts often praise its consistency and quality. Many reviews highlight its balanced hop profile, clean finish, and the ability to enjoy multiple servings without palate fatigue. The beer has become a benchmark for the Double IPA style, with many breweries aiming to replicate its success.

Untappd

My Rating: ****.5
Global Untappd Rating: 4.4995 (or 4.5) (as of 2.26.24).

Conclusion

Pliny the Elder is a benchmark in the world of craft beer, particularly within the Double IPA category. Its masterful balance of hops and malt, combined with its rich history and consistent quality, make it a beer that every craft beer lover should experience. Whether you’re revisiting it or trying it for the first time, Pliny the Elder is sure to impress.

Pliny the Elder stands as a testament to the artistry and dedication of Russian River Brewing Company. Its ability to balance intense hop flavors with a smooth, drinkable malt backbone sets it apart from many other Double IPAs. This beer has not only withstood the test of time but continues to be a benchmark in the craft beer industry. Its consistent quality and refined complexity make it a must-try for both seasoned beer enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Moreover, Pliny the Elder’s legacy is bolstered by its historical significance. As one of the first commercially brewed Double IPAs, it paved the way for an entire genre of hoppy beers that have become staples in the craft beer world. The beer’s namesake, Pliny the Elder, who first documented hops in his writings, adds an intriguing historical depth that complements its modern-day acclaim. This blend of history and innovation has helped Pliny the Elder maintain its iconic status.

In summary, Pliny the Elder is more than just a beer; it’s a symbol of the craft beer revolution. Its harmonious blend of flavors, rich history, and the unwavering dedication of Russian River Brewing Company make it an enduring favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, Pliny the Elder offers a consistently exceptional experience that continues to set the standard for Double IPAs worldwide.

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