Velkopopovický Kozel beer

Velkopopovický Kozel is a legendary Czech lager brand dating back to 1874, when it was first brewed by František Ringhoffer in the town of Velké Popovice. Known for its distinctive goat mascot—'Kozel' means 'male goat' in Czech—it has become one of the most recognizable and awarded beers originating from Central Europe.

While its traditional home remains the brewery in Velké Popovice, the brand's immense popularity has led to licensed production in multiple countries across Europe and Asia. This ensures fresh distribution to international markets while maintaining the specific recipes and brewing standards established over 150 years ago in its Czech homeland.

Today, Kozel is part of a global beverage portfolio owned by Asahi Group Holdings. Following the merger of Anheuser-Busch InBev and SABMiller, Asahi acquired the brand along with other Central European assets to expand its premium beer presence. The ultimate ownership sits with the Japanese conglomerate, though regional management is handled through Asahi Breweries Europe Group.