Santa Rosa Location Russian River Brewing Company

Russian River Brewing: A Beer Lover's Paradise In Sonoma County!

Santa Rosa Location Russian River Brewing Company

By  Zakary Frami

Have you ever tasted a beer that transcends the ordinary, becoming an experience etched in your memory? Russian River Brewing Company, with its meticulously crafted brews and unwavering dedication to quality, consistently delivers just that a symphony of flavors that captivates the palate.

The story of Russian River Brewing Company (RRBC) is a tale of passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of brewing excellence. It all began in 1997, nestled amongst the towering redwoods of West Sonoma County, as part of Korbel Champagne Cellars. For six years, RRBC operated under the Korbel umbrella, steadily building a reputation for crafting exceptional beers. However, in a pivotal moment, Korbel decided to exit the beer business. Rather than see the brewery fade into obscurity, Vinnie Cilurzo, the head brewer at the time, and his wife, Natalie, stepped in. In 2003, they acquired the brand and all its recipes, embarking on a journey to transform RRBC into the craft beer powerhouse it is today. It was during his time at Blind Pig Brewing Co. that Vinnie crafted a double IPA back in 1994. Though the idea was there, the perfect name eluded him. After a deep dive into beer literature, brainstorming sessions, and careful consideration, the iconic name "Pliny the Elder" was born.

Category Information
Name Vinnie Cilurzo
Occupation Brewer, Co-Owner of Russian River Brewing Company
Career Highlights
  • Head Brewer at Korbel Champagne Cellars (Russian River Brewing Company)
  • Co-Owner of Russian River Brewing Company since 2003
  • Creator of Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger
  • Pioneer in the craft beer industry
Professional Information
  • Focus on traditional, aggressively hopped California-style ales, Belgian-style ales, and barrel-aged beers.
  • Known for strong India Pale Ales and sour beers.
Reference Link Russian River Brewing Company Official Website

Since 2004, under the stewardship of Vinnie and Natalie Cilurzo, Russian River Brewing Company has blossomed into a craft beer mecca. The brewery operates two locations in Sonoma County: the original 4th Street brewpub in downtown Santa Rosa, which opened to instant success in April 2003, and the larger Windsor brewery and pub, which welcomed its first patrons in October 2018. Both locations boast dozens of expertly crafted beer options and delectable food menus, inviting guests to savor the experience in their vibrant indoor and patio spaces.

The downtown Santa Rosa location, a beloved gathering place for locals and beer aficionados from around the globe, has been serving the community for two decades. While the Santa Rosa pub is famed for its pizza, the Windsor location presents a more diverse culinary menu, catering to a wider range of palates. Regardless of the location, the commitment to quality and innovation remains unwavering. At Russian River Brewing Company, the focus is on brewing traditional, aggressively hopped California-style ales, Belgian-style ales, and barrel-aged beers. This dedication to craftsmanship has earned them a devoted following and solidified their position as one of Sonoma County's most celebrated breweries.

RRBC is perhaps most renowned for its iconic Pliny the Younger release, an annual event that draws crowds from far and wide, with people standing in lines that stretch for blocks down 4th Street in Santa Rosa, all patiently waiting to get a taste of perfection. The Pliny the Younger, a mythical triple IPA, has achieved near-legendary status in the beer world. The anticipation surrounding its release is palpable, and the experience of finally tasting this sought-after brew is nothing short of extraordinary. The beer is a testament to Vinnie's creative genius, an example of how he made a double ipa at Blind Pig Brewing Co., and the brewery's commitment to pushing the boundaries of brewing innovation.

However, the Pliny family extends beyond the Younger. Pliny the Elder, the double IPA that started it all, remains a cornerstone of RRBC's offerings. Drinking a Pliny the Elder is truly bliss. It represents the culmination of Vinnie's initial idea from his days at Blind Pig, meticulously refined through years of experience and dedication. The name, inspired by the ancient Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder, reflects the brewery's deep appreciation for history and knowledge. Finding the name was not an easy task; it took much research in beer books, brainstorming, and deliberation before arriving at the perfect fit.

Beyond the Pliny dynasty, Russian River Brewing Company boasts a diverse and impressive beer portfolio. From the robust Russian River Porter in a 16oz can to the refreshing Velvet Glow in a 12oz can 6 pack, there is a brew to satisfy every taste. For those seeking a more experimental experience, the Rnd Brett Beer #2 3L offers a unique and complex flavor profile. And for those eager to explore the full spectrum of RRBC's offerings, the tasting menu provides an opportunity to sample smaller pours of many of their exceptional drinks.

The expansive outdoor area at the Windsor location provides a welcoming space for guests to relax and enjoy their beers. Dogs have long been welcome on the patio of their downtown Santa Rosa outpost. This commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere extends to their event offerings as well. Russian River Brewing can also host smaller private events.

The brewery's commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of its operations, from the carefully selected ingredients to the meticulous brewing process. This dedication has not gone unnoticed. Russian River Brewing Company has garnered numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its reputation as one of the best breweries in the world. People have already mentioned Russian River Brewing and I'd second that.

A growler being filled with Pliny the Elder beer at the Russian River Brewing Company brewpub in Santa Rosa, Calif., on Monday, October 26, 2015, captures the essence of the brewery's appeal. It's about more than just the beer; it's about the experience, the community, and the shared passion for craft brewing.

Despite the brewery's success, Vinnie and Natalie Cilurzo remain deeply committed to their community. They recognize the importance of giving back and actively participate in various charitable initiatives. Their dedication extends to their employees, who are considered family. Both of their brewpubs are open 7 days a week and closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and for their annual summer employee family picnic. In 2022, the normal February release of Pliny the Younger had to be postponed due to a lack of staffing thanks to COVID.

So, whether you're a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious newcomer, a visit to Russian River Brewing Company is an experience not to be missed. Nestled in the heart of Santa Rosa, California, Russian River Brewing Company stands as a beacon for craft beer enthusiasts, beckoning them to explore the vibrant world of local brews. The two Sonoma County locations the original 4th Street brewpub in downtown Santa Rosa, and the Windsor brewery and pub that opened in October of 2018 at 700 Mitchell Lane offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

And for those seeking adventures beyond the brewery walls, the area offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration. If you're into hiking, my favorite trail in the area is to Gunsight Rock. Discover the aroma, taste, and overall experience of this exceptional brew and look for a detailed review of Russian River Brewing Co's Santa Rosa Janet's Brown Ale.

Russian River Brewing Company has become one of Sonoma Countys most famous breweries, founded as part of Guernevilles Korbel Champagne Cellars in 1997 then sold to its original brewer Vinnie Cilurzo and his wife Natalie in 2003. I generally love the beer at Russian River Brewing and recommend trying the tasting menu if you want to taste smaller pours of many of their drinks. They also have limited and new drinks just for the Pliny the Younger event! They have the best beers I've ever had.

Santa Rosa Location Russian River Brewing Company
Santa Rosa Location Russian River Brewing Company

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Santa Rosa Brewpub Russian River Brewing Company
Santa Rosa Brewpub Russian River Brewing Company

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Russian River Brewing Company People Places Things & Ideas
Russian River Brewing Company People Places Things & Ideas

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  • Name : Zakary Frami
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