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.
The “Hop Burn” Risk: Because Galaxy is so rich in oils and polyphenols, using too much (especially in dry hopping) can lead to a harsh astringency in the throat known as “hop burn.” Patience is key; cold conditioning helps this settle out.

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.

The Supply Crisis: Because the harvest window is small and the demand is global, Galaxy is often sold on multi-year contracts. For homebrewers, it is one of the most expensive hops on the market, often costing double the price of Cascade.

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.
Caution: If used incorrectly or for too long (over-extracted), Galaxy can occasionally impart a “savory” or “onion” note, so timing is critical. Short contact times (2-3 days) are best.

Pairing Galaxy: The Best Friends

Galaxy is a diva. It likes to be the star, but it shines brighter with a supporting cast.

Citra: The ultimate partner. Citra adds the “juice” (orange/grapefruit) that fills out the tropical top notes of Galaxy.
Mosaic: Adds a blueberry/berry depth that grounds the high-flying passionfruit of Galaxy.
Nelson Sauvin: For a full Southern Hemisphere bomb. White wine grapes + Passionfruit = Luxury.

Commercial Examples

Tree House Green: A legendary NEIPA that uses a massive dose of Galaxy to create a pineapple/orange juice profile.
Other Half Space Diamonds: A showcase of how Galaxy can drive an Imperial IPA.
Stone Ripper: A “San Diego Pale Ale” that uses Galaxy to give a tropical twist to a classic West Coast style.

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.