Krug 1996

At the House of Krug, every Krug Vintage celebrates the distinct character of a particular year. A Krug Vintage is a blend of the most expressive wines from a single year enhanced by a stay of over ten years in the cellars. Every Krug Vintage is different: it is the Music of the year, captured by Krug.

1996 was a very special year in Champagne, said to be one of the best vintages of the century and often compared to the legendary 1928.

At the House of Krug, even Paul Krug II, known for his strictly objective observations, noted that Krug 1996 may well have been “the next 1928”.

Krug 1996 is also the last Vintage created by three generations of the Krug family working together; Paul II, Henri and Rémi, and Olivier.

Purchase

Champagne notes

A talk with Julie Cavil

Krug Cellar Master

1996 was a year in which the elements conspired with Krug’s unique craftsmanship to elevate the intense contrasts that define the flavours and aromas of this special vintage. It was a year of extremely wide temperature variations with a rainy winter and massive frosts in February followed by a dry spring. The summer alternated between periods of scorching heat and spells of heavy rain. As the harvest approached, so did warm, sunny days and very cold nights. These were perfect conditions for beautiful grapes. The year 1996 was one for Champagne’s history books.

Krug 1996 is the fresh expression of an exceptional year. For Krug, the year 1996 gave birth to wines exhibiting high levels of freshness, as well as great balance and potential. Its final composition is Pinot Noir (48%), Chardonnay (31%) and Meunier (21%).

While a Krug Vintage normally leaves the cellars after 10 years, the House keeps a limited number of these bottles, which were disgorged at the same time, under optimal conditions to present again at a later date. These bottles of Krug Vintage are known as Back Vintages.

The aromatic and expressive profile of Krug 1996 Back Vintage thus comes after 20 years in the cellars, gaining in balance and finesse.

Tasting notes

Krug 1996 Back Vintage, with its radiant, rich gold colour and resplendent bubbles, first caresses the senses with mature aromas before exploding in a bouquet of freshness, elevating contrast and character.

With firm texture, its full, ripe flavours are followed by notes of fresh pear, candied lemon, ripe summer fruit, honey, gingerbread and hints of delicate mocha.

Tasting notes

With firm texture, its full, ripe flavours are followed by notes of fresh pear, candied lemon, ripe summer fruit, honey, gingerbread and hints of delicate mocha.

KRUG X MUSIC

The House of Krug has long sensed that a link existed between sound and taste perception. Many appreciators of fine wine and Music, or anyone who has used the Krug App, understands the joy of savouring this extraordinary Champagne while listening to a piece of Music and how such an experience allows one to travel down direct pathways to the sensations.

The House collaborates with renowned artists, as well as with rising newcomers who compose original tracks following their tastings with the Cellar Master. Their Music Pairings or “Krug Echoes” are accessible to anyone on Krug.com or via the Krug app, making it possible to share their unforgettable experience with Krug Champagne at home.

DISCOVER KRUG ECHOES

Food Pairing

Krug 1996 pairs beautifully with mascarpone recipes such as fusilli in white sauce or potato gratin. Salmon tart with zucchini, as well as goat cheese or vegetable tiramisu, sea scallops or shrimps with rich basil and mustard sauce will also accentuate the flavours and aromas of this Champagne.

Desserts such as an orange tiramisu or pecan pie with a white or rosemary cream topping can further enhance the experience.

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Food Pairing

Desserts such as an orange tiramisu or pecan pie with a white or rosemary cream topping can further enhance the experience.

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STORING & SERVING

The Right Temperature

The House of Krug recommends that its Champagnes be served between 9°C and 12°C, as colder temperatures limit the expression of their flavours and aromas.

The Right Glass

In 2011 the House of Krug partnered with renowned crystal maker, Riedel, to design a glass that would most generously reveal the fullness of flavours and aromas of Krug Grande Cuvée.