#190 | Russian River Brewing Company

The 2025 release of Pliny The Younger, the ever-popular annual iteration of Russian River Brewing Company’s Triple IPA, was unsurprisingly a hit. So what better time to revisit our conversation with Vinnie Cirluzo, co-founder of the seminal US brewery? We hope you enjoy…

In the world of beer, there are a number of real positives when it comes to working for, or running, a brewery.

Creating something that people enjoy, savour and value is a goal in any artistic venture. And in ownership, so is the ability to provide employment, development and satisfaction to your team.

Another purpose for many businesses is the ability to affect a change. Breweries are often the beating heart of local communities. They can offer a place to frequent, to socialise and where possible, also have a positive impact on the local economy they form part of.

In the case of Russian River Brewing Company, they do just that. And with the release of the modern phenomenon that is Pliny The Younger, their annual sought-after Triple IPA, on the horizon, what better time to catch up with co-founder Vinnie Cilurzo who, along with his business partner and wife Natalie, is the co-founder of the California business.

In this episode he shares his observations on the changing brewing landscape, the importance of community and his love of working with different ingredients. 

We also talked about the importance of maintaining a strong identity, integrity and, in an age of countless beer styles, why Russian River will continue doing what it does best – and that’s “staying in its lane” making the beers people love.

Photo Credit: Russian River Brewing Company

Production: Ross Macpherson