Krug is a champagne producer who, through his visionary way of thinking about champagne production, has managed to make a name for himself among the world's many champagne enthusiasts, as one of the most skilled producers out there. Krug has a long and exciting history, which has shaped their way of making champagnes. All their varieties garner great international recognition from the most recognized wine writers worldwide, including James Suckling (wine spectator) and Robert Parker.
The story of the champagne house Krug
The German Johann Joseph Krug founded the Champagne house Krug in Reims, and in line with a number of other German businesses from the Rhineland, they saw growing opportunities to run good businesses in Champagne.
He started his career at the well-regarded champagne producer Jacquesson, where he was initially employed and later became a partner. Here the idea of making a uniform product that did not always reflect the changeable weather conditions in France grew. In 1840, Joseph Krug found together with the famous wine merchant Hippolyte de Vives, and together they began to experiment with what is known today as reserve wine or 'vin de reserve'. When the couple in 1843 were sure of how the production should take place, the "House of Krug & Champagne" became a reality.
A vision that led to a masterpiece
The vision was to create a champagne that did not vary in quality from year to year. The idea was to use the grapes from the year in question, and then supplement with what is today called a vintage, which can be translated into previous years' grape must.
This gave Krug the opportunity to combine the best characteristics from the individual vintages, and thus make one wine that always lives up to expectations. The idea behind Krug's champagne is that it should give the same pleasure every time you enjoy a glass.
Who is behind Krug
Krug is today owned by LVMH (Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton), but they continue to carry on the family tradition. Maximilian Krug, who is the founder's great-grandson, has helped run the company since 1983. Today, he is responsible for ensuring that all Krug champagnes meet the quality requirements. However, it is not just Maximilian Krug who works to create the best champagnes – the whole family has a hand in the game. The son Oliver Krug, for example, acts as chairman of the board for the company, while the daughter Louise Krug manages the strategic and creative work.
Krug's production of champagne
Krug currently produces two lines of champagnes; Grande Cuvée and Clos du Mesnil. Their champagnes are highly sought after, which can only be confirmed by looking at how quickly they sell out.
Krug's Clos du Mesnil is one of the world's most expensive champagnes, and today costs approximately DKK 4,000 for one bottle. It should also be mentioned that there are champagnes that are far more expensive than Krug's Clos du Mesnil, but this still says a lot about how sought-after this champagne is.
In addition, Krug also produces a number of other highly acclaimed champagnes, including Krug Rosé and Krug Grande Cuvée.
Krug champagne is typically of the dryness degree brut, which many of the big champagne brands also practice in style.
Which grapes does Krug use?
Krug champagne, as mentioned, comes in several different versions, and for this they use all three champagne grapes; Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. Depending on the year (vintage) in question, the grape composition is also different.
Krug's masterpieces
Krug Clos du Mesnil is of course one of Krug's best-known products, but their Grande Cuvée is also a highly recognized product. Most champagne enthusiasts will nod in recognition at these two names.
Jug Clos du Mesnil
Krug Clos du Mesnil is a blanc de blancs, which means it consists of only white grapes. This champagne has an intense and complex aroma reminiscent of peach, nougat and brioche. In addition, the wine has a nice straw yellow color and a rich and creamy structure.
Jug Grande Cuvee
Krug's Grande Cuvee is a blend of 50 different champagnes that have been bottled for up to 6 years. This champagne has a very complex aroma of fruit, nuts and spices. In addition, the wine has a straw yellow color and is very rich in structure.
