Personal advice
The 168th edition of Krug Grande Cuvée was eagerly anticipated by Krug enthusiasts around the world, many of whom purchase nearly every edition of the Krug Grande Cuvée Champagne. With such a ripe and concentrated base year as 2012, expectations were high.
However, instead of emphasising the full, fruit-rich and ripe character of 2012, Krug took a bold approach: they avoided yeasts that enhance fruitiness and fullness. As a result, acidity and structure now come more clearly to the forefront. The palate feels firmer, the acidity lively and intense. These elements meet the classic nutty Krug aromas. The reserve wines – particularly from 1996 – further support the acidity and complexity.
Unlike in earlier editions, the Grande Cuvée Champagne of this release is not hard or closed in its youth: it is a deep, demanding Champagne with a clear, defined line. However, it still needs about ten years of maturation to reveal its silky texture and full aromatic spectrum. Those who prefer it fresher will likely enjoy it in around five years. By then, the typical Krug aromas – roasted hazelnuts, nougat, candied orange peel and Sicilian lemons – will come more prominently to the fore and blend perfectly with the structure.
In 2012, the harvest was around 20% smaller than usual, resulting in more concentrated base wines. For the assemblage, 42% reserve wines were used, the oldest from the legendary 1996 vintage. Cellar Master Julie Cavil selected 192 wines from over 400, each vinified separately. The cuvée consists of 52% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay and 13% Meunier – an unusually high proportion of Pinot Noir. As the 2012 wines at Krug are very ripe, the reserve wines were chosen specifically for their freshness and lively acidity to create perfect balance. The Chardonnay reserve wines come from plots in Avize and Marmery, while the Pinot Noir comes from the Montagne de Reims, including Verzenay and Verzy.
A glance at the Alfavin cellar
The freshest bottles will go directly to you from a former ice cellar high in the mountains, so you can experience them most beautiful wine moments