Gouden Carolus Classic finds its origin in the rich tradition of Mechelen. Every Belgian city had their own city breweries and their own city beer. So the people of Mechelen drunk "den Mechelschen Bruynen". Mechelen, at that time capital of the Netherlands, had her brewer's guild and the members were on their honor to brew the best beer for the Emperor. An old chronicle of Mechelen reports that this Grand Imperial Beer, "Gouden Carolus" named after the golden coins of Emperor Charles, was mainly consumed during the foxhound "since both the riders and the horses were brought in full fire and made them gallop in order for the hunt always developed in the best atmosphere". 

This "Grand Imperial Beer" is still brewed in the brewery of Mechelen called Het Anker. Dark, very balanced dosed caramel and aromatic malts provide, in combination with a traditional high fermentation, a unique beer that unites the warmth of wine and the freshness of beer. This makes it very suitable in combination with culinary specialties such as stews, wild, pates and even sabayon.

Following earlier prestigious awards, this beer was selected “Worlds’ Best Dark Ale” (WBA, 2012).