Conditioning: What to expect when you're expecting an Imperial Stout

Hey folks, I just took a reading of 1.096 and threw in the yeast for a Russian Imperial Stout. Feeling like a champ so far, but I want to make sure that it ages long enough while avoiding oxidation. Since bringing a human baby to term has a shorter turnaround, do I need to take any extra precautions with a RIS?

Special factors: In my case, standard buckets are plentiful but I have no carboy. I also want to add juniper berries for flavoring for 2 weeks.

My instinct is to ferment with the wort at a constant 66 for 3 weeks, switch buckets and condition for 3 months, add the juniper 2 weeks before bottling, and bottle condition for 6 months. Is there a better way? Should I just pony up for a 5 gal carboy and let it ride for 9 months?

Yes, my vote would be put it in glass (or stainless) for long-term aging.

ryan_george said:

Yes, my vote would be put it in glass (or stainless) for long-term aging.

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Agreed. Glass for the secondary is how I've always matured my RIS's and it has worked out well.

But do whatever works for you!