Fermenting and bottling question

[histo320]

My first 2 batches were kits from the local supply store and called for 7-10 days of fermentation. Patience is a virtue I do not have so I bottled after 7 days with 3/4 cup priming sugar. It was an IPA and turned out great, just great, but I have noticed the first bottle I drank was not as good as the most recent.

Would it be better if I let it ferment a few more days/weeks? or is it just the aging in the bottle that makes it better?

 

[Bach7210]

Hard to tell without a gravity reading. 7 days seems way on the low side. I let my brews sit for at least 14 days before I even think about taking a gravity reading.

 

[shertz]

Time= better beer. Now that you have some homebrew to drink, brew another batch and you won't be in a hurry to bottle. I always ferment at least 2 weeks, mostly 3 weeks for ales. If you didn't check the gravity and bottled that early, you were at serious risk of bottle bombs if the yeast was still active. Take gravity readings!

 

[histo320]

I took a gravity reading, and after doing research it was right on what I've seen other IPAs at, (not sure of actual reading now, but it was acceptable). No exploding bottles, and not too much carbonation...great head!

Thanks for the tips...I will probably keep my stout for 2 weeks.