aging of moderately high ABV beers

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.

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!

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.

Correct answer! ^^^^^^