Russian River Brewing Company 'Intinction' Sauvignon Blanc Aged Pilsner Beer, California

A compelling fusion of barrel-aged complexity and varietal finesse, Russian River Brewing Company 'Intinction' Sauvignon Blanc Aged Pilsner Beer, California, USA, offers a genre-defying experience for fans of both sour beers and wine-barrel expressions. Crafted with a foundation of classic Pilsner, this beer is elevated by refermentation with Brettanomyces and whole Sauvignon Blanc grapes, then aged in Sauvignon Blanc barrels for a singularly aromatic and effervescent result.

Product Details:

• ABV: 8.25%
• Style: Belgian-Inspired / Barrel-Aged Pilsner
• Base Beer: Pilsner
• Aging: Sauvignon Blanc wine barrels
• Yeast: Brettanomyces
• Additional Ingredients: Whole Sauvignon Blanc grapes
• Carbonation: Naturally bottle-conditioned with live yeast sediment
• Appearance: Pale golden hue with slight haze and fine bubbles
• Brewers: Vinnie Cilurzo (Brewmaster & Co-owner), Natalie Cilurzo (Co-owner)

Sensory Description:

'Intinction' opens with fragrant notes of tart lemon zest, bright white grape, and subtle earthy funk from Brettanomyces. The mouthfeel is finely carbonated and elegant, offering a wine-like dryness supported by a core of crisp Pilsner malt. Barrel-aging introduces gentle oak and herbal tones, while the finish is zippy, dry, and persistent with a lingering vinous complexity.

Awards & Accolades:

• “Brewery and Brewmaster of the Year” – Great American Beer Festival
• “Brewery and Brewmaster of the Year” – World Beer Cup
• “Russell Scherrer Award for Innovation in Brewing” – 2007
• “Brewers Association Recognition Award” – 2017

Brewer's Background:

Russian River Brewing Company was originally founded by Korbel Champagne Cellars in 1997 and taken over in 2003 by husband-and-wife team Vinnie and Natalie Cilurzo. Revered for their pioneering work in hoppy and Belgian-inspired styles, the Cilurzos have grown RRBC into one of the most respected craft breweries in the United States. With dual facilities in Santa Rosa and Windsor, California, the brewery specializes in both clean and sour barrel-aged beers, producing cult classics like Pliny the Elder and experimental gems like Intinction.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled at 46–50°F in a tulip or white wine glass to best appreciate the layered aromatics and gentle carbonation. Ideal pairings include aged goat cheese, herbed roast chicken, or grilled halibut with citrus beurre blanc. Intinction is also excellent alongside soft-ripened cheeses and charcuterie for a wine-adjacent tasting experience.

Russian River Brewing Company's 'Intinction' Sauvignon Blanc Aged Pilsner Beer, California, USA, redefines the boundaries between wine and beer with every tart, bright, and effervescent sip, a visionary creation from one of America's most innovative craft breweries.