I just got my first real brew fermenting (im not counting my mr beer experience), and I did not take a SG reading before it started fermenting (did not have a hydrometer, but will have one soon). Some sites say wait 2-5 days, some say wait 2 weeks, before bottling. I am trying to get this batch done for x-mas/new years, so how do I know when its good to bottle? Also would a 2nd fermentation be good (does it improve the flavor by that much?), or should I just do a primary and bottle (then maybe condition it in the garage?). So lots of questions... thanks for the help
Cincinnati Pale Ale
Ingredients for a 5 gallon batch
* 3-4 lb. Pale malt extract syrup, unhopped
* 2 lb. Amber dry malt extract
* 12 AAU of bittering hops (any variety) For example, 1 oz. of 12% AA Nugget, or 1.5 oz. of 8% AA Perle
* 5 AAU of finishing hops (Cascade or other) For example, 1 oz. of 5% Cascade or 1.25 oz. of 4% Liberty
* 2 packets of dried ale yeast
Cincinnati Pale Ale
Ingredients for a 5 gallon batch
* 3-4 lb. Pale malt extract syrup, unhopped
* 2 lb. Amber dry malt extract
* 12 AAU of bittering hops (any variety) For example, 1 oz. of 12% AA Nugget, or 1.5 oz. of 8% AA Perle
* 5 AAU of finishing hops (Cascade or other) For example, 1 oz. of 5% Cascade or 1.25 oz. of 4% Liberty
* 2 packets of dried ale yeast