Three Killer Champagnes from Krug

Photo credit: Krug.

Among wine-lovers, Krug Champagne needs no introduction. This iconic Champagne house has been producing some of the world's best bubbles since 1843. Now owned by the luxury giant LVMH, Krug Champagnes fetch high prices all over the world and are sought after by Champagne enthusiasts for the deep richness and absurd complexity of flavors.

So, naturally, when I heard Nicole Burke from Krug was going to be in DC pouring three Krug Champagnes, I jumped at the chance.

Nicole poured the newly-released 2004 Vintage Brut, and the most recent iterations of the classic non-vintage Brut Grand Cuvée (the 164th edition) and the new non-vintage Rosé, the 21st edition.

The Champagnes were all jaw-droppingly good, but they are also very pricey, approaching the "if you have to ask, it's too expensive" range of price tags. But the wines are downright phenomenal, if you can afford them.

My notes below...
2004 Krug Champagne Vintage Brut - France, Champagne
$280
Rich and deep aromas but also some floral, chalky, baguette notes. The palate combines power and elegance so well, a gorgeous texture with bright acidity. Juicy apricot and lemon curd laced with almond, chalk dusty, mineral, honeyed tea, toasted baguette, candied ginger. Very young, but surprisingly complex, although I’d love to re-taste in a decade. (95 points)

N.V. Krug Champagne Brut Grande Cuvée Edition 164eme - France, Champagne
$175

Loving the nose, rich and boisterous, with apricot, toasted bread, lemon curd, almond. Pristine and zesty on the palate, complements the richness well. Honey, apricot, lemon curd, nougat, toasted baguette and bread dough, along with mineral and floral notes. Long, zesty, vibrant. Based on the 2008 vintage, this could benefit from cellar time for sure. (94 points)

N.V. Krug Champagne Brut Rosé 21eme Edition - France, Champagne
$300
Lovely rose color. Aromas of red berries, red apple peel, blood orange, vinous and deep but also floral and chalky. Crisp and lively palate with a lovely richness of fruit (raspberry, strawberry, blood orange). I get complex elements of saline, chalk, roses, spiced tea and rhubarb. Delicious, deep, complex, long. Wow. Pinot Noir with 8% Pinot Meunier. (95 points)