Galaxy (sometimes known as Single Hop Galaxy) is a golden ale produced by Mallinsons brewery in Huddersfield. At 3.9% ABV it is at the lower scale when it comes to alcohol content, even when compared to the golden ale category.

The ale poured a light straw colour with a fluffy white head which was retained through drinking.

The aroma was a subtle citrusy note but upon tasting there was less citrus tastes evident. Galaxy had a more earthy taste with hints of pine and grass and a long bitter, dry finish.

Galaxy is reminiscent of a number of UK golden ales on the market at the moment. One that comes to mind as being very similar is the Chester brew Thirst Quencher by Spitting Feathers.

The hops used are Australian Galaxy hops which are high in alpha acids and as a consequence the beer has quite tart finish.

There seems to be a trend towards the “grassy” type of golden beers, which is perfectly fine but given the choice I would prefer a much heavier citrus element to a blonde beer. That’s not to say that Galaxy isn’t a good beer – it is perfectly drinkable, it just isn’t to my particular tastes.

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