Beautiful notes of dried citrus fruit, lemon curd and dried apples with hints of spices, dried flowers and subtle brioche. I like the polished and caressing texture and steady, refreshing acidity. It’s fresh and even austere, with notes of ground spices. So vertical and firm. Structured and long. Drink or hold.
97 points jamessuckling.com
Krug Grande Cuvée is born from the dream of one man, Joseph Krug, to craft the very best Champagne he could offer, every single year, regardless of annual variations in climate. Since 1843, the House of Krug has honoured this vision with each new Edition of Krug Grande Cuvée. Unlike other Maison's the wines needed for their NV are selected first, in the spring following the harvest. Then Krug considers the elements they want to keep from the last harvest for their reserves and finally they decide if they have the right components to make a vintage from that year. Often in great vintages like 2012 they decide they want more of the great wines in their reserve program rather than make a Krug 2012.
"Every year since the foundation of the House, a new Edition of Krug Grande Cuvée is created, every year the inspiration will be the same, but the creation will be totally unique and different." Olivier Krug
Krug Grande Cuvée 172nd Edition is a blend of 146 wines from 11 different years, the youngest of which is from 2016, while the oldest dates back to 1998. Its final composition is 44% Pinot Noir, 36% Chardonnay and 20% Meunier. Reserve wines from the House’s extensive library made up 42% of the final blend. A stay of around seven years in Krug’s cellars gives this Edition its remarkable expression and elegance.
