Ella Hop Pellets
Ella Hops are an elegant, dual-purpose variety bred by Hop Products Australia (HPA), best known as the sister to the ever-popular Galaxy hop. Both Ella and Galaxy share a common parent, an Australian wild hop crossed with a German Spalt cultivar, but Ella brings a more restrained and floral character that appeals to home brewers who appreciate balance over boldness. This is sibling rivalry at its finest.
At lower hopping rates, Ella offers spicy and floral aromatics reminiscent of noble European hops, making it a refined choice for Pilsners, Blonde Ales, and Kölsch. But when used in late additions or dry hopping, Ella reveals a surprise: grapefruit zest, tropical melon, and subtle stone fruit that make her an unexpected fit for Hazy IPAs and Fruit Beers.
Technical Details:
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Alpha Acids: 13.0%–16.0%
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Beta Acids: 4.0%–7.0%
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Total Oils: 1.6–2.4 mL/100g
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Usage: Dual-purpose – smooth bittering and aromatic finesse
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Substitutes: Hallertau Mittelfrüh, Saaz, Strisselspalt
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Ideal For: Pilsners, Blonde Ales, Kölsch, Hazy IPAs, Fruit Beers
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Country of Origin: Australia
Ella Hops FAQ
Is Ella related to Galaxy hops?
Yes! Ella is the sister hop to Galaxy, both bred in Australia from the same German-Australian hybrid parentage. While Galaxy brings big tropical fruit, Ella is more restrained, floral, spicy, and quietly fruity.
What do Ella hops taste like?
Ella hops deliver floral, herbal, and peppery notes when used early or in small amounts. When added late or dry hopped, they can offer tropical melon, grapefruit, and subtle stone fruit aromas.
What beer styles are ideal for Ella hops?
Ella fits beautifully in lighter styles like Pilsner, Blonde Ale, and Kölsch. Ella also works well in fruit-forward Fruit Beers and modern Hazy IPAs.
Can I dry hop with Ella?
Absolutely. While Ella isn’t as pungent as Galaxy or Citra, she offers gentle citrus and floral tones that shine in dry hopping. Great for brewers seeking nuance over intensity.
What hops are similar to Ella?
If Ella isn’t available, try Hallertau Mittelfrüh, Saaz, or Strisselspalt, all floral, low-alpha hops with European finesse.
