aging of moderately high ABV beers

General Homebrew Discussion
1

Hey guys. Just bottled a 7.8% ABV beer which I realize is not that high but a lot higher than I usually do nonetheless. I rarely bottle anymore as well. Any thoughts on how long to age this guy? I assume at least a month? I know there are no hard set rules but just looking for advice mainly.

I am calling it a double red ale and it has a healthy amount of columbus, centennial, and simcoe hops although it is not in the IPA range and not dry hopped.

I am thinking about storing them around 68F for a 3-4 weeks so that they can carb properly then begin to age in the fridge and test on a weekly basis. Very soon my non-refridgerated storage area will begin to rise from 65 to well above 70.

2

Age it for as long as it takes to taste good.  If it tastes great in 2-3 weeks, start drinking it in 2-3 weeks.  Age is NOT always a good thing.  It can help if the flavors are too harsh when it’s young.  But if it’s NOT harsh when young, then DRINK IT YOUNG!

3

Depends on what you’re looking for. If you want the hop character to really come through, drink it soon. If you want to ‘age’ it for a bit to let the flavors round out some, then wait 3 or 4 weeks and try one to assess.

4

Correct answer! ^^^^^^