Wiley Roots Brewing Company rebranded its “Slush” sour beer series after receiving a cease-and-desist letter from a law firm representing Sonic Corporation. (Wiley Roots/For The Tribune)

Wiley Roots Brewing Co.’s “Slush” sour beer series will return with a re-refreshed look after the brewing company received a cease-and-desist letter from a law firm representing the Sonic Corp.

Crowe & Dunlevy Attorneys and Counselors at Law sent the letter Tuesday to request Wiley Roots stop using the Double Delta logo and Route 44 marks from the brewery’s branding of the series, as well as to remove all references to Sonic and its brands from Wiley Root’s website and social media accounts. The brewery will comply, rebranding the “Slush” series.

“We completely understand where (Sonic is) coming from. What initially started off as a bit of an inside joke at the brewery gained far more momentum than we had ever anticipated,” Kyle Carbaugh, co-owner and head brewer at Wiley Roots, said in a news release. “Once we saw the trending popularity of this series, we figured it would only be a matter of time before the inside joke grew beyond its means and would require rebranding.”

The new branding pays tribute to the original frozen slush drink machine Wiley Roots used to serve “Slush” in 2018. Because the letter arrived before labels were printed for the re-launch, Wiley Roots’ weekend party from April 12-14 will not be delayed. The brewery will be able to phase out a limited number of drink tumblers and drive-in inspired stickers.

Brewery officials maintain no hard feelings over the legal request, noting in the news release the importance of trademarks and intellectual property for businesses.

The offending Wiley Roots Slush beer label.

“We’re still huge fans of Sonic and will continue to frequent their restaurants,” Carbaugh said in the release. “Sonic is the original summer drink stop and we are thankful for their influence on this beer series.”

The owners intend to frame the letter in the taproom, according to the release.