One of the storied Champagne houses, Krug was founded by Joseph Krug in 1843. The house is based in Reims and is currently owned by LVMH Moet Hennessy whose portfolio includes famed French houses like Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, Chateau d’Yquem and Ruinart. Originally from Mainz (modern day Germany), Joseph Krug moved to Paris to work in accounting for Champagne Jacquesson and learned so much about Champagne that he began making his own privately. A brilliant linguist, Joseph spoke French, English and German and spoke some Russian, which put his Champagne house in good position to sell to overseas markets.
Following Joseph’s death his son, Paul Krug, took over and began selling Krug across Great Britain. There was great turmoil at the house following Paul’s death in 1910 with two World Wars, although many people contend that the best Champagnes of the century were made between 1926 and 1928. While I have never had these wines, many critics have said that they are some of the best wines that they have ever tried.
Krug produces a host of wines including Krug ‘Grande Cuvée’ (which I reviewed), as well as a stunning non-vintage rosé, a vintage Blanc, a vintage Blanc de Blancs from the Clos du Mesnil Vineyard, a vintage Blanc de Noirs from the Clos d'Ambonnay Vineyard and older vintages released as Krug Collection series. I was blown away with the Krug Grande Cuvee 169th Edition which is crafted from over 146 wines dating back to the 2000 vintage. The current release shows incredible range from citrus rind to musty terroir. It is a dazzling Champagne that is built to age. Learn more about these very special wines at https://www.krug.com Here is my review of the Krug Grande Cuvee 169th Edition Champagne.
Krug Grande Cuvee 169th Edition Champagne- Musty, yeasty and downright intoxicating, the Krug Grande Cuvee 169th Edition is a blend of 146 wines from 11 different years, the youngest being from 2013 and the eldest dating back from 2000. The elegance of this wine is exquisite as layers of lemon oil, marzipan, toasted salted Macadamia nut and Gravenstein apple all come together exquisitely on the palate. Youthful and thriving now with its incredible verve, the ‘169 ed. Grand Cuvee’ will surely cellar well for at least another fifteen years and potentially more. Drink 2021-2036- 96