Personal advice
The 168th Édition of Krug Grande Cuvée was eagerly anticipated by long-time Krug fans worldwide – especially given the ripe, concentrated base vintage of 2012. As there was no Krug Vintage in 2012 due to very small yields, the best parcels of this year went into the Grande Cuvée and the reserve wines.
Instead of emphasizing the lush, fruity, ripe character of 2012, Krug deliberately chose a bold, classic path: largely forgoing yeast-driven, creamy, and fruit-enhancing components. As a result, structure, race, and vibrant, intense acidity now dominate. The palate feels taut and firm, the acidity precise and penetrating – typical of the great, long-lived Krug cuvées of past decades. The reserve wines, particularly from the legendary 1996 vintage, further enhance acidity and complexity.
Unlike some earlier éditions that were very closed in their youth, the 168 already shows depth and sophistication today, with clear line and impressive tension. For the classic, silky Krug palate with its full aroma spectrum (roasted hazelnuts, nougat, candied orange peels, Sicilian lemons), however, it still needs about 8–12 years of bottle age. Those who prefer it fresher and tauter will find great enjoyment in 4–6 years.
In 2012, Krug's harvest was about 20% lower – resulting in very concentrated, ripe base wines. Cellar master Julie Cavil selected 192 out of over 400 individually vinified wines for the assemblage. The 52% Pinot Noir share is unusually high for a Grande Cuvée. To balance the natural ripeness and fullness of the 2012 vintage, the reserve wines were deliberately chosen for freshness and lively acidity – especially Chardonnay from Avize and Marmery, as well as Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims (including Verzenay, Verzy). The oldest reserve wine comes from the legendary 1996 vintage.
Drinking window: 2030 to 2050
A glance at the Alfavin cellar
A glance at the Alfavin cellar
A glance at the Alfavin Cellar