Krug is a champagne producer who, through their visionary approach to champagne production, has managed to make a name for themselves among the world's many champagne enthusiasts as one of the most skilled producers there is. Krug has a long and exciting history, which has influenced their way of making champagnes. All of their varieties have received great international recognition from the most renowned wine writers worldwide, including James Suckling (wine spectator) and Robert Parker.
The history of the champagne house Krug
The German Johann Joseph Krug founded the Krug Champagne House in Reims, and in line with a number of other German companies from the Rhineland, they saw the growing opportunities to run good businesses in Champagne.
He began his career at the renowned champagne producer Jacquesson, where he was first employed and later became a partner. Here the idea of making a uniform product that did not always reflect the changing weather conditions in France grew. In 1840, Joseph Krug met the famous wine merchant Hippolyte de Vives, and together they began to experiment with what is now known as reserve wine or 'vin de reserve'. When the partners were sure in 1843 how the production should be carried out, 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 that year, and then supplement it with what is now called a vintage, which can be translated as grape must from previous years.
This gave Krug the opportunity to combine the best qualities from each vintage, and in this way create 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 now owned by LVMH (Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton), but the family tradition continues. Maximilian Krug, the great-grandson of the founder, has been running 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. For example, his son Oliver Krug serves as chairman of the board of directors of the company, while his 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, as can be seen from how quickly they sell out.
Krug's Clos du Mesnil is one of the world's most expensive champagnes, and currently costs approximately 4000 Danish kroner for one bottle. It should also be mentioned that there are champagnes that are much 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 brut dry, which many of the major champagne brands also practice on a grand scale.
What grapes does Krug use?
As mentioned, Krug champagne comes in several different versions, and they use all three champagne grapes; Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. Depending on the vintage, the grape composition also differs.
Krug's masterpieces
Krug Clos du Mesnil is of course one of Krug's most well-known products, but their Grande Cuvée is also a highly regarded product. Most champagne enthusiasts will nod in recognition to these two names.
Krug Clos du Mesnil
Krug Clos du Mesnil is a blanc de blancs, meaning it is made only from white grapes. This champagne has an intense and complex aroma reminiscent of peach, nougat and brioche. The wine also has a beautiful straw yellow color and a full and creamy structure.
Krug Grande Cuvee
Krug's Grande Cuvee is a blend of 50 different champagnes that have been in the bottle for up to 6 years. This champagne has a very complex aroma of fruit, nuts and spices. The wine also has a straw yellow color and is very full-bodied in structure.
