For beer enthusiasts who appreciate a good barrel-aged brew, there's something special brewing in Ohio this weekend. Warped Wing Brewing Company is rolling out its much-anticipated 2025 Whiskey Rebellion Imperial Stout, complete with a lineup of flavored twists that promise to shake up the winter season. This isn't just another beer drop—it's a full-on event at their original Dayton taproom, where fans can snag bottles and sample drafts straight from the source.
The core of this release is the Whiskey Rebellion Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels, a rich, dark beer that's earned its place as a staple in Warped Wing's barrel-aging lineup. It's the kind of stout that hits with deep, oaky notes from the bourbon barrels, perfect for sipping on a cold evening after a long day. But what really sets this year's batch apart is the array of flavored variants, each one crafted to deliver a unique punch. Think bold combinations that blend the stout's robust base with dessert-like profiles—ideal for guys who enjoy experimenting with flavors while kicking back with a pint.
Nick Bowman, the VP of Sales & Marketing and Managing Partner at Warped Wing, summed it up best: “Whiskey Rebellion has become the cornerstone of our barrel aged program and this year’s lineup is one of our most exciting yet. From the classic Imperial Stout to bold flavored variants like German Chocolate Cake and Iced Gingerbread Cookie, this release is designed for fans to savor each unique sip. Hosting the launch in Dayton lets us share these limited bottles first at our OG taproom where it all began.”
Bowman's words highlight why this release feels like a nod to tradition while pushing boundaries. The name itself, Whiskey Rebellion, draws from that historic 1790s uprising against taxes on spirits—a fitting theme for a beer that's all about bold defiance in flavor. For those who remember cracking open a cold one after tinkering in the garage or watching the game, this stout lineup offers a grown-up twist. The German Chocolate Cake variant brings in hints of coconut, pecan, and chocolate that could pair nicely with a hearty barbecue or even a slice of actual cake if you're feeling indulgent. Then there's the Iced Gingerbread Cookie, evoking those warm, spicy holiday vibes without being overly sweet—great for sharing around the fire pit with buddies.
But the excitement doesn't stop there. Warped Wing is introducing even more variants to keep things interesting. The Old-Fashioned Smoked Cherry & Orange version channels the classic cocktail with a smoky edge and citrus kick, making it a solid choice for anyone who likes their drinks with a bit of sophistication. Bananas Foster adds a caramelized banana flair that's reminiscent of New Orleans desserts, while the Freedom Reserve rounds out the collection with its own mysterious allure—perhaps a patriotic spin on the rebellion theme. Each one builds on the bourbon-barrel foundation, ensuring that deep, warming complexity shines through.
The launch kicks off this Saturday, December 6th, at the Dayton Taproom on 26 Wyandot Street in Dayton, Ohio. Doors open at noon, and if you're after bottles, you'll want to line up at the loading dock out back—it's first-come, first-served, and those flavored ones might disappear fast. Folks just looking to try drafts can head straight through the front entrance, no hassle. Warped Wing is encouraging everyone to show up early to lock in their favorites, especially since these limited releases could sell out before the day ends.
To build the buzz, they've got a staggered draft tapping schedule that turns the event into a full afternoon affair. It starts at 12 p.m. with the straight-up Whiskey Rebellion Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels, giving purists a chance to taste the base before the variants roll out. At 1 p.m., the Old-Fashioned Smoked Cherry & Orange hits the taps, followed by German Chocolate Cake at 2 p.m. By 3 p.m., you can sample the Bananas Foster, and 4 p.m. brings the Iced Gingerbread Cookie. Wrapping it up at 5 p.m. is the Freedom Reserve, making it easy to pace yourself and try them all without rushing.
If you can't make it to Dayton, don't worry—the bottles, including the regular and all variants, will hit the shelves at Warped Wing's other locations the next weekend. That means spots in Springboro, Mason, and Huber Heights will get their share, spreading the rebellion a bit wider across Ohio. But for the true experience, nothing beats being at the original taproom where Warped Wing got its start. It's a chance to connect with fellow beer lovers, chat about the flavors, and maybe even pick up some stories from the folks behind the brews.
This release comes at a perfect time as the holidays approach, offering something for the guy who's tired of the same old light beers and wants to elevate his cooler stock. Whether you're stocking up for game nights, holiday gatherings, or just quiet evenings unwinding, these stouts deliver that satisfying depth. Warped Wing has built a reputation for quality, and this 2025 lineup looks set to continue that streak, drawing in crowds who value craftsmanship in their drinks.
In a world full of mass-produced options, events like this remind us why local breweries matter—they're about community, innovation, and enjoying the simple pleasure of a well-made beer. So if you're in the area or up for a road trip, mark your calendar for December 6th. It could be the start of a new tradition, one sip at a time.
