Krug : Collection 1996

Characteristics and Tasting Notes of Krug "Collection" 1996

Tasting Notes

Appearance
The colour reveals a deep golden yellow hue.

Nose
Wonderfully complex, the nose unveils aromas of candied fruits and quince paste, interwoven with toasted notes, coffee, chicory, and a delicate smoky touch.

Palate
The palate seduces with its unctuousness and perfect balance between richness and vivacity. It expresses lemon in all its facets, ranging from fresh fruit to candied lemon, by way of lemon meringue tart and limoncello. The finish is remarkably long, underpinned by a razor-sharp acidity.

Food and Wine Pairing

This champagne pairs beautifully with refined dishes such as a truffle soufflé, delicate fish served with a creamy lemon sauce, or shellfish enhanced with a mango and lemongrass salsa. It also elevates mascarpone-based dishes, as well as desserts like crêpes Suzette or pecan pie.

Serving and Cellaring

For an optimal tasting experience, it is recommended to serve and store the Krug "Collection" 1996 cuvée at a temperature between 9 and 12°C. Endowed with exceptional ageing potential, this wine can be enjoyed until around 2040.

The Elegance and Complexity of an Exceptional Champagne

The Estate

Founded in Reims in 1843 by Joseph Krug, Maison Krug is a true icon of Champagne. Driven by the pursuit of pleasure and respect for the individuality of each plot, it stands out for its blends of rare complexity. Part of the LVMH group since 1999, the estate is now led by Olivier Krug, a sixth-generation representative, while Julie Cavil serves as Cellar Master. The house is distinguished by its exclusive production of prestige cuvées and its strong commitment to sustainable viticulture.

The Vineyard

The grapes come from a mosaic of more than 250 plots spread across Champagne. The estate relies on around twenty hectares of its own vines as well as a solid network of partner winegrowers. The entire vineyard is farmed according to the principles of sustainable viticulture, with a gradual conversion towards organic farming.

The Vintage

The year 1996 was marked by a distinctive climatic duality, offering both high grape ripeness and a very pronounced acidic structure. These weather conditions gave rise to wines combining opulence with tension.

Winemaking and Ageing

Krug "Collection" 1996 benefited from extended ageing on lees within the House's historic cellars in Reims. Kept under optimal temperature and humidity conditions, this wine was disgorged late to develop additional patina and aromatic complexity while preserving its original freshness.

Grape Varieties

48% Pinot Noir, 31% Chardonnay, 21% Meunier.