Discover Ghulden-Cop: a low-sugar, gluten-free regional beer from Geraardsbergen!

The Ghulden-Cop, now available at Cafe-Feestzaal@KuDa in Geraardsbergen.

Ghulden-Cop is a popular sugar-free, low-gluten regional beer from Geraardsbergen. Since September 2022, it’s been proudly brewed under the care of Kurt, owner of Café-Feestzaal @KuDa. Now, you can enjoy this refreshing, healthy local beer in a charming setting, with a warm welcome and great conversation every day!

The origin of the Ghulden-Cop

Chris De Nooze, born and raised in the iconic “Ponderosa” pub in Goeferdinge, developed a deep passion for beer early on. Since 2000, he has dedicated himself to mastering the art of brewing through self-study. Years of small-scale experiments led to a successful creation: Ghulden-Cop. When Geraardsbergen’s regional beer “Adriaans” disappeared in 2010, there was a growing demand for a new local brew. Thanks to Chris’ active involvement in community life, both as a volunteer and board member, tasting sessions of his beer quickly became a reality, establishing Ghulden-Cop as a regional favorite.

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The naming of the Geraardsberg regional beer

The search for a local brewer led to a partnership with Brouwerij De Graal in Brakel, a one-man brewery known for its craft beers. The authenticity of Geraardsbergen and its famous Manneken-Pis inspired the beer’s name. Although a “Manneken-Pis beer” once existed, only a subtle reference to it was kept. Historically, the Manneken-Pis was first placed in 1459 in front of the tavern “Den Ghulden-Cop” on Brugstraat, Geraardsbergen’s oldest inn, now known as “De Presse.” And so, Ghulden-Cop became Geraardsbergen's official regional beer!

The story of the low-sugar Ghulden-Copbier

Chris' experience as a graphic designer produced the current logo after some puzzling. Red and yellow as regional colors of Geraardsbergen, were complemented by black as a representation of Belgian beer. As the ultimate regional beer, the Ghulden-Cop is consequently only available locally. On February 17, 2011 the Ghulden-Cop was presented at the Geraardsberg town hall and because of its success a matching beer glass with logo was designed. As an enrichment to the Ghulden-Cop beer, also the Ghulden-Cop cheese is being developed: a spicy, low-salt and soft cheese, matured in the beer as an ideal complement. A further challenge sprang up to brew a sugar-free beer based on the Ghulden-Cop.

During this brewing process, the taste was also slightly modified and additional bitterness added. On April 21, 2013, the updated, sugar-free version of Ghulden-Cop was unveiled. Ghulden-Cop sugar-free is a 6° dark blonde beer with 153 Kj/100 ml and contains fewer calories than in a standard lager. The beer contains only 0.78 grams of residual sugar per liter, which is negligible since sugar-free beer usually has less than 5 grams per liter as a norm. The classic Ghulden-Cop subsequently disappeared due to increased production and appreciation of its sugar-free, low gluten version. Indeed, 4 times 16000 liters of sugar-free Ghulden-Cop are brewed annually with increasing demand!

Come and enjoy the cozy atmosphere at Café-Feestzaal @KuDa!

Over the years, Café-Feestzaal @KuDa has truly become a beloved fixture in the Geraardsbergen area. Nestled on Zarlardingestraat, we’re here to serve you a frothy pint every day, poured with a smile! Our extensive drink menu has something for everyone, and our versatile ballroom is perfect for any occasion. With a spacious sun terrace, great value, and friendly service, plus our delicious regional beer, every visit is sure to be unforgettable!