This is a modification to an award winning recipe found at http://www.homebrewtalk.com/f68/russian-imperial-stout-2011-hbt-competition-category-winner-238807/
Directions say to primary for at least a month, then secondary for another 3, or 6 if you can wait that long.
The original directions suggest that it peaks around 8 months.
to add vanilla, slice 3 vanilla beans down the center and spread the bean apart. Soak in enough bourbon (Makers Mark) to cover for a week. Then add everything to the beer when racking. We added the beans in a hop bag for easy removal. remove beans in a few days depending on taste.
Why VIIIRIS? V for vanilla, III for 3 beans, RIS for Russian imperial stout.
The VIII is also my initials