Just tried my English barleywine a week after brewing

I took a hydro sample today to see how it was doing. Down to 1.014 from 1.08, so I'm officially pleased. (Wyeast 9097-PC, what a nice strain.) Since I had the opportunity to taste, I figured why not?

Hot damn, was it bitter! I can taste a hint of what it's going to become, but it was just way too much bitterness in the short term. Happily, the alcohol taste was nicely hidden, so I think this sucker is going to turn into something really nice over the next year. Also, I'm positive the Brett from 9097-PC hasn't kicked in yet, so more layers to come.

I gotta tell ya, my 18.5% ABV barleywine was pretty much undrinkable for a good year or so. it was like drinking straight vodka at first. a good BW needs to age

That's definitely the plan. I made this one with the intent of handing it out as a holiday present next year.