Any reason why you are not inclined to plant it in the ground? Other than requiring a little winter protection, it should do just fine. Part shade preferred (morning sun/afternoon shade) and provide lots of water this season.

Thanks Gardengal
I'll plant it as soon as this monsoon lets up. Its on my deck getting drenched. I've seen a number of postings that recommend keeping in a pot for the first year. That would never work for me or the poor hydrangea. I put others in the ground for the first time last year and they are doing very well. 2 out of 6 have not set buds. Maybe they did need some winter protection and didn't get it (see what I mean about poor hydrangea?). The others (Strawberry & Cream, Merritt, Midnight Salsa, and Pinky Winky) are doing really well and hopefully I'll get a good showing. I'm excited about the Brestenburg because it is my first blue.
Thanks for the advice.

If that really is Brestenburg, put it in the ground! I highly recommend that cultivar. I got a mere 4" pot in my grandmother's funeral arrangement a few years back, planted in mostly clay and it has bloomed every year since, even from the crown, and it reblooms. I'd personally classify it as remontant. Also, it does not shift completely to pink, only goes deeper blue to purple. Aged blooms fade to a papery blue-gray.

Great word, "remontant"! I had to look it up. Remontant = flowering more than once in a single season.

Carol