Beer of the Week: Diamond Knot’s The Keeper’s Old Ale

Published 3:42 pm Friday, February 5, 2016

The Keeper’s Old Ale

Diamond Knot Brewing Company, Mukilteo

Style: Dark Ale

Stats: 9.9 percent ABV, 45 IBU

Available: On shelves Feb. 8 in 500-milliliter Belgian-style bottles

My thoughts: Walk out the front door of Diamond Knot’s Alehouse on the Mukilteo waterfront, look left and you can’t miss it: the Mukilteo Lighthouse, inspiration for the brewery’s newest series. The Keeper’s Series pays homage to the light station keepers who kept the light on for countless seafaring men and women since 1906. Unlike the somewhat diminutive Mukilteo lighthouse, the first beer in the series is big and bold. Old Ale refers to big, dark, malty British ales and Diamond Knot’s doesn’t disappoint. It’s nearly 10 percent ABV and it’s full. I recommend letting it warm up a bit before drinking, so the flavors of plum and raisin can boil up to the surface. Another cool aspect is the beer label, which features the original artwork of a bearded light keeper and his lighthouse, by Whidbey Island artist David Gignac.

From the brewery: Brewed using six different malts and barley, this beer has a lot of depth. It’s full-bodied and rich. Flavors of sweet plum, dark sugar, and raisin relax into a warm molasses finish. Character develops with time. Store upright in a cool dry location with minimal light. Extended cellaring is recommended but not required for enjoyment.

— Aaron Swaney