Beer Review: Trillium Legroom Hazy Double IPA
Trillium’s “Room” series is a masterclass in hop scaling, and Legroom (8.0% ABV) sits comfortably at the top of that hierarchy. While some Double IPAs can feel like a heavy assault on the palate, Legroom’s Hazy DIPA is engineered for “plushness.” It is the liquid equivalent of sinking into a velvet sofa, expansive, soft, and undeniably premium.
Appearance
Legroom pours with that iconic “Trillium Glow.” It is a deep, opaque pale orange, reminiscent of freshly squeezed peach nectar. The head is tight, white, and creamy, maintaining a persistent rim that clings to the glass like sea foam. It looks less like a beer and more like a high-end tropical fruit smoothie.
The Experience
The Nose: The aromatics are aggressive in the best way possible. Before the glass even hits your lips, you’re met with a massive wave of overripe mango and pink grapefruit. There is a distinct “dank” quality here, a resinous undercurrent that balances the sugary sweetness of the tropical fruit notes.
The Palate: This is a “juice bomb” in every sense of the word. The first sip is an explosion of pineapple, nectarine, and candied orange peel. Unlike West Coast DIPAs, which rely on sharp pine bitterness, Legroom uses its hop oils to create a rounded, “ripe” fruit flavor. There is a subtle, honeyed malt sweetness in the mid-palate that keeps the 8% ABV well-hidden and integrated.
Mouthfeel: This is the beer’s hallmark. It is exceptionally soft and pillowy. Trillium’s use of oats and wheat, combined with their specific water chemistry, results in a mouthfeel that is thick and coating without being syrupy. The carbonation is fine and gentle, enhancing the “creamy” sensation.
The Verdict
Legroom is a reminder of why Trillium remains a titan in the craft world. It delivers extreme hop saturation while maintaining a sophisticated, elegant texture. It’s a bold beer that doesn’t sacrifice balance for power. If you are a fan of the New England style, this isn’t just a beer; it’s a benchmark.
Ideal Pairing
From the Shop: Pair this with a spicy, citrus-forward Bicuixe Mezcal. The tropical fruit in the beer cuts through the agave’s mineral smoke beautifully.
Local Eats: Spicy fish tacos from a Bernal Heights food truck or a funky blue cheese that can stand up to the beer’s intensity.