The Brewer

Galaxy Hops

Galaxy Hops: The Australian Tropical Explosion

If the modern craft beer revolution had a signature scent, it would likely be Galaxy. Developed by Hop Products Australia (HPA) and released in 2009, Galaxy has risen to become arguably the most famous and sought-after hop in the world, defining the “juicy” profile of the New England IPA (NEIPA).

The Profile: Pure Fruit Intensity

Galaxy is renowned for having one of the highest concentrations of essential oils of any hop variety, leading to an aroma that is often described as “obscene” in its intensity.

  • Primary Aromas: Overwhelming passionfruit, peach, and citrus.
  • Secondary Notes: Hints of guava, pineapple, and sometimes a subtle “dank” or resinous edge.
  • Alpha Acids: High (13-16%), but it is almost never used for bittering because its aroma is too precious to boil away.

The Origin: High-Oil Heritage

Galaxy is a descendant of the German variety Perle, but it far outstrips its ancestor in terms of oil production. It is grown exclusively in the cool climates of Tasmania and Victoria, Australia. Because the harvest window is small and the demand is global, Galaxy is often sold on multi-year contracts, making it a “blue-chip” ingredient in the brewing world.

Brewing with Galaxy

Galaxy is a “late-addition” specialist. Its oils is incredibly potent, meaning a little goes a long way.

  • Whirlpool & Dry Hopping: To capture that signature passionfruit punch, Galaxy should be added as late as possible—ideally in the whirlpool (under 80°C) or as a dry hop addition.
  • The NEIPA Staple: It is the backbone of many world-class Hazy IPAs. Its high oil content contributes not just to aroma, but also to the “mouthfeel” and perceived juiciness of the beer.
  • Caution: If used incorrectly or for too long (over-extracted), Galaxy can occasionally impart a “savory” or “onion” note, so timing is critical.

Characteristics at a Glance

  • Alpha Acids: 13.0% – 16.0%
  • Beta Acids: 5.0% – 9.0%
  • Total Oils: 3.0 – 5.0 ml per 100g (Extremely High)
  • Key Terpenes: Myrcene (30-50% of total oil), Caryophyllene, Humulene.

Galaxy is the rockstar of the hop world. It changed the way we think about beer aroma, proving that a single ingredient could make a glass of beer smell like a tropical garden.