Old Rasputin Barrel Aged?

Bought three bottles of this the other day while in Chicago for New Years Eve. Haven't been able to find in my area, so thought I should buy a few. A guy at the liquor store told me I should let it age for a year, otherwise it's a little hot. Another guy there said he just thought the oak flavor was more dominant when fresh. So I bought 3 bottles, thinking I would space them out. One in the next month or so, one about six months from now, and then save the last one for New Years. Am I putting too much thought into this? Should I just drink them whenever, or will aging this beer really make a difference? I have read some reviews and most are very positive, but some complained about the high ABV making it too hot. However, none of them mention aging the beer. Any advice is appreciated.

I love that old Rasputin stout. In fact I have an OR clone in my carboy right now. Haven't had the barrel aged version though. If I were you I'd drink one now and then decide how long to wait. If it tastes awesome then enjoy them soon. If you are interested in the aging effects then space them out over several months or up to a year. Personally I don't see that beer getting much better with age. Its already awesome.

I just thought is was just OK. At $18 a bottle for 16 or so oz I wanted a better experience. My local brewery has a much better one.

I've personally noticed minimal differences in cellaring an already-aged imperial stout. If a brewery releases a "green" beer and charges $20 I would pass. Living in an apartment doesn't allow me much room to cellar and my local store sells every beer as a single (2500+).

For those who are interested in De Molen brews, the brewery just openend their online store, so far they are only serving Europe, but the idea is to distribute worldwide:
http://www.demolenbeershop.com/

Thanks everyone for the feedback.