Brewers' Pale Ale Galaxy Hop Blend by Anchor Brewing Co. is being judged as an American Pale Ale, BJCP category 18B. The beer opens with a moderately high level of a rather nondescript citrus aromatic followed by some fresh pine, accompanied by a faint passion fruit note. Some grainy malt comes in with a slight impression of sweetness. Nothing off or out of place. Pleasant and inviting. Light golden color that is rather hazy, on the level of your average NEIPA, topped by a big white creamy head with great retention. Medium light body with moderate carbonation. There is a little carb bite but not astringent or unpleasant. A touch of sticky hop residue but smooth.
The pine is a little more prevalent in the flavor but rounded off by hints of lemon before the passion fruit makes its way in. The beer is moderately bitter but leans ever so slightly to the malt, which is grainy with a touch of honey in the finish. The hop flavors are dominant, fresh and pronounced without being overdone. Clean fermentation with all the fruit flavors coming from the hops. The finish is moderately dry with some lingering hops left behind.
Very nice modern take on a classic American Pale Ale. Hits all the right marks in aroma, flavor and balance for an APA with increased hop complexity and interest relative to the old school Cascade showcase verities. While I don’t typically think of pine associated to Galaxy hops, the fresh pine notes are welcomed and add another layer to the beer. The extra hazy aspect of the beer is the only thing out of style but who really cares about that when a beer is this enjoyable.