River North Brewery’s Vicennial Series Returns with New Barrel Aged Releases

Few beer releases carry the same weight and anticipation as River North’s Vicennial Series. What began in 2017 as an experiment in extreme barrel aging has grown into one of our most ambitious and most sought after annual projects. It is a showcase of patience, precision, and the art of brewing beers built to last decades. Yes, decades.

The series was originally designed for collectors and cellarers. Vicennial means twenty years, a fitting name for beers crafted to stand the test of time. Each release is brewed to reward those who stash them away just as much as those who can’t wait to open them now. Over time, the lineup has evolved into a collection of six massive barrel aged beers. Barleywines, stouts, strong ales, and quads that define River North’s bold, unapologetic approach to brewing.

This year, the Vicennial Series is back and better than ever. It remains one of our most ambitious projects to date and continues to be one of the most sought after releases year after year. Throughout November, we will be releasing six Vicennial beers, including two new Reserve variations that take barrel aging to the next level.

Vicennial Series 2025 Release Schedule

November 1: Father Time and Death of Time Reserve

November 15: God Complex and Last Guardian

November 22: Shadowman and Dark Sorceress Reserve

This Weekend’s Release

• Father Time | 17.8% ABV

  Barrel aged barleywine aged in Colorado whiskey and bourbon barrels. Expect notes of rich caramel, toffee, and oak with a smooth, warming finish. A timeless classic in the Vicennial lineup.

  
  

• Death of Time Reserve | 20.3% ABV

  A bold new take on last year’s standout addition to the Vicennial family. Death of Time Reserve is a black barleywine aged 22 months in Colorado whiskey barrels. Deep, decadent, and the first of its kind. It is a beer built for the end of time.

Both bottles are available for pre-sale now, and will also be available this Saturday at both River North Taprooms. Quantities are limited, so be sure to get here early.

The Vicennial Series has always been about craftsmanship, time, and community. This year, we are turning up the intensity with deeper barrels, stronger blends, and a few surprises along the way.

Whether you are a longtime collector or trying these for the first time, November is your month to experience the legacy.

Cheers,

The River North Crew