The ideal time to drink your beer is when you are thirsty and feel like a drink!
In saying that, letting the beer condition in the bottle for at least 2 weeks is preferable, but carbonation in the bottle usually takes place within 7 days.
- Stronger beers need more time to develop and will usually taste better after more time in the bottle.
- Lagers also need a couple more weeks to fully develop their flavours.