Krug is perhaps one of the worlds most iconic Champagne brands. Krug Grande Cuvee 171ème Édition has amazing complexity and is blended from 131 wines from across 12 different vintages. It's the signature Champagne and possibly the most important from Krug. Resting for around seven years in Krug's cellars, this Édition has remarkable expression and elegance. Over 20 years of careful nurturing have gone into the making of this Édition of Krug Grande Cuvée which represents the 171th re-creation of a most generous expression of Champagne.
Krug Grande Cuvée 171ème Édition was composed around the harvest of 2015, a year marked by unprecedented heat and drought that prevailed from the end of May to mid-August, slowing grape development. Fortunately, rains in the second half of August allowed the berries to grow and, combined with sunshine and reasonable temperatures, ensured ripening in optimal conditions. The harvest took place between August 31 and September 21, under rain filled skies.
To create this Édition of Krug Grande Cuvée, the Cellar Master looked to accentuate the year's elegantly diverse aromatic expressions with different plots’ reserve wines from 11 other vintage years. The careful attention given to the vines and Krug's unique focus on the individual character of each plot enabled the breadth of expression of this Édition of Krug Grande Cuvée. In all, reserve wines from the House's extensive library made up 42% of the final blend, bringing the breadth and roundness that is vital to each Édition of Krug Grande Cuvée.
The final composition of this bottle of Krug Grande Cuvée is 45% Pinot Noir, 37% Chardonnay and 18% Meunier.
Tasting notes
Colour: A light golden colour and fine, vivacious bubbles, holding a promise of pleasure.
Aroma: Flowers in bloom, ripe, dried and citrus fruits, as well as marzipan and gingerbread.
Taste: Grilled notes and flavours of almond paste, quince, lemon, limoncello and dried fruit.
Food pairing
Krug Grande Cuvée 171ème Édition compliments a wide range of culinary delights, from the simplest to the most sophisticated, from an aged parmesan to turbot à la truffe.
It can also be enjoyed as an aperitif. Try it with Jabugo ham and mature comté or served to accompany oysters, grilled shrimps, Indian or Moroccan food, as well as desserts such as carrot cake, tarte tatin and cheesecake.
Serving and Storage
Krug recommends its Champagne to be served between 9°C and 12°C. Colder temperatures limit the expression of the flavours and aromas. Bottles should be stored at the same temperature they are served, i.e. between 9°C and 12°C, as colder temperatures slow down the Champagne's evolution, while warmer temperatures can cause irreversible damage. In general, thermal shocks should always be avoided during storage and bottles should not be exposed to light. They should also be handled with care, as the contents are under pressure. When the time comes to open your bottle of Krug, make sure it is pointed away from yourself and other people, tilt it and remove the wire cap and foil. Holding the cork firmly with one hand, and the bottle with the other, turn the cork to slowly and gently release it.
