The first time I heard of Diamond Knot was when I spied an empty growler for sale at a local thrift store. I managed to gain ownership and I have since filled it with a variety of tasteful offerings.

Recently I met a friend for lunch at the Porterhouse (21+ only) in Mt. Vernon, WA where a multitude of NW brews are available on tap. In perusing their regularly changing chalkboard list I noticed Diamond Knot X IPA. How could I pass that up? Or why? I really enjoyed this Industrial IPA, which is created with the same recipe as their standard IPA, but with approximately 25% more grain & twice the hops resulting in 7.9% ABV and 80 IBUs. Not as floral as some but quite smooth and sporting a very frothy top above its amber bubbles.

Our sidewalk table was the perfect setting for a tête-à-tête over salads on a gorgeous July afternoon. My friend had a Wyder’s pear cider and we vowed to ‘do this again more often’. I certainly hope so.