History

Krug was founded in 1843 by Joseph Krug, a visionary who understood that the essence of Champagne is pleasure itself. Breaking with the conventions of the time, he envisioned creating a prestige champagne every year regardless of annual variations. The House has remained in family hands for five generations, maintaining its commitment to Joseph's vision.

Manufacturing Method

Krug Grande Cuvée is recreated every year from an extensive library of reserve wines, spanning 12-14 different vintages. Each plot's wine is vinified separately in small oak barrels, a traditional method rarely used in Champagne today. The blend typically includes over 120 individual wines. After blending, the wine undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle and ages on lees for approximately seven years, far exceeding the legal minimum.

Origin

Produced in Reims, in France's Champagne region. Krug sources grapes from various carefully selected plots throughout Champagne, including grand cru vineyards in Ambonnay, Mesnil-sur-Oger, and Oger. Each plot is vinified separately to preserve its individual character.

Taste Profile

Krug Grande Cuvée presents an extraordinary breadth of aromatics and flavors. The nose reveals bright citrus, toasted nuts, marzipan, and baked apple. The palate offers layers of hazelnut, nougat, jellied fruits, citrus peel, brioche, and honey, with a profound depth that unfolds gradually. The texture is creamy yet precise, with fine, persistent bubbles and a long, complex finish marked by notes of grilled almonds and fresh citrus.

Technical Details

Typically composed of around 50% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay, and 15% Meunier, though proportions vary by release. The wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation and is aged for a minimum of 7 years in Krug's cellars before release. Each bottle features a unique ID code that allows consumers to learn the story of their specific bottle.