Gouden Carolus Vintage Collection 2017 – 2018 – 2019

Het Anker – Mechelen, Belgium – Three Imperial Masterpieces in One Box

Experience an exclusive collection from the historic Het Anker brewery in Mechelen. Here you’ll find three vintages of the legendary Gouden Carolus Cuvée van de Keizer Imperial Dark – brewed only once a year, on February 24th, the birthday of Emperor Charles V.

This collection is more than beer. It’s a journey through time, craftsmanship, and Belgian brewing artistry at its finest.

Three Vintages – Three Expressions

Gouden Carolus 2017 – The Classic Power
The 2017 vintage offers a dark reddish-brown color with a dense foam. The taste is full-bodied, deep, and almost wine-like.
You’ll encounter notes of dark caramel, cane sugar, figs, and a hint of spice. The finish is warm, smooth, and elegant. A beer that matures beautifully over time.

Gouden Carolus 2018 – The Imperial Harmony
The 2018 edition is complex and well-balanced. Notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and burnt sugar meet a silky malt richness.
The high alcohol content is seamlessly integrated, providing a gentle warmth. Perfect with slow-cooked dishes, game, or aged cheeses – or simply for quiet enjoyment.

Gouden Carolus 2019 – The Youthful Strength
The newest vintage is fresher and fruitier. You’ll find plums, raisins, and candied orange peel beautifully balanced with dark caramel.
The taste is rich and warm, yet lively and fresh. A powerful quadrupel with a modern touch.

Tasting Notes

Color: Dark mahogany with ruby highlights
Aroma: Caramel, raisins, figs, spices, and roasted notes
Taste: Full-bodied and wine-like, with chocolate, dried fruit, and burnt sugar
Finish: Long, warm, and slightly sweet
Serving Temperature: 10–12 °C
Pairing Suggestions: Game, hearty dishes, aged cheeses, and chocolate desserts

The Story of Het Anker

The Het Anker brewery was founded in 1369 and is one of Belgium’s oldest.
In the 16th century, Mechelen was the residence city of Emperor Charles V, and the city’s brewers created a special beer in his honor.
In 1999, Het Anker revived this tradition with Gouden Carolus Cuvée van de Keizer – a brew now celebrated as one of the world’s finest Belgian quadrupels.

Each bottle carries history, passion, and craftsmanship. A true imperial beer, made to be shared – or kept as a liquid treasure in your cellar.