Pliny the Elder — Russian River Brewing

Pliny the Elder set the benchmark for hop-forward IPAs when it debuted in 2000, boasting a perfectly balanced 8% ABV that remains drinkable despite its intense hop profile. Brewed by Vinnie Cilurzo at Russian River Brewing, this double IPA sparked the hop wars and became the most sought-after beer in America, proving that heavy hopping could produce a refined brew rather than a bitter, piney mess. Data shows it consistently earns a 100-point rating from Beer Advocate among top IPAs, outperforming #2's Heady Topper in drinkability for those chasing balance over raw juice. Every hazy IPA owes it a debt, but Pliny's legacy as the original remains unchallenged.