Krug 2011

A talk with Julie Cavil

Krug Cellar Master

The Pinot Noir wines of 2011 exhibited magnificent balance and beautiful structure, while the Meuniers retained wonderful freshness and elegant bitters, and the Chardonnays – most affected by the heat spikes – were juicier and riper than other years, with exemplary roundness and generosity rather than their usual tension. In the tasting room, it was clear the climate had a striking impact on the wines, affecting the fruit as if to ‘cook’ it with the heat, while the sugar content remained moderate. Surprisingly, the most distinctive performers were plots one would not expect.

The year 2011 for Krug was split in two, with reversed seasons and an abrupt switch upon flowering. Unbridled summer weather arrived in spring, spurring the vines to develop rapidly and flowering to occur mid-May, three weeks earlier than usual. Rainfall and cool weather ensued. The paradoxical climate reached peak unpredictability on the eve of harvest with four scorching days followed by intense rain and a sudden drop in temperature. Harvest took place from August 25 to September 3, 2011, with homogeneity in grape maturation and the Clos d’Ambonnay unexpectedly being harvested the day before the Clos du Mesnil.

The Pinot Noir wines of the year exhibited magnificent balance and beautiful structure, while the Meuniers retained wonderful freshness and elegant bitters. The Chardonnays – most affected by the heat spikes – were juicier and riper than other years, with exemplary roundness and generosity rather than their usual tension. For the House’s Tasting Committee, it was clear the climate had a striking impact on the wines, affecting the fruit as if to “cook” it with the heat, while the sugar content remained moderate. Surprisingly, the wines that stood out that year were plots one would not expect.

To tell the story of 2011, a selection of Pinot Noir plots’ wines constitutes almost half (46%) of the blend, imparting beautiful structure and magnificent balance, while Chardonnay plots’ wines (37%), most affected by the heat spikes, imbue ripe and juicy fruit aromas, and Meuniers (17%) add a wonderful freshness with elegant bitters.

The striking profile of Krug 2011 comes after 13 years in the cellars, gaining in expression, harmony, and finesse.

TASTING NOTES

A nose of white fruits give way to tangy star fruit and citrus followed by nuances of liquorice and basil leaf. In an interplay of delightful contrast, this Champagne opens with enveloping roundness of pastry and stewed fruit. These give way to a hint of smokiness and herbs on the palate. As if by surprise, the chiselled finish lingers with salivating notes sea salt and grapefruit zest.

FOOD PAIRING

This Vintage will pair deliciously with spicy dishes, grilled meats such as Greek brochettes, shellfish with character, and mouth-watering desserts.

TASTING NOTES

FOOD PAIRING

This Vintage will pair deliciously with spicy dishes, grilled meats such as Greek brochettes, shellfish with character, and mouth-watering desserts.

Krug grande cuvée

Composed by Grand soleil

Selected by Grand soleil

Krug Grande Cuvée

Composed by Grand Soleil

5:15

MUSIC PAIRINGS

Reversed Seasons (Krug 2011)

Composed by Dardust

Scent Silence (Krug 2011)

Composed by Jae Hyung Jung

Prism (Krug 2011)

Composed by Shuya Okino

Hypnosis (Krug 2011)

Composed by Schiller

Spirited (Krug 2011)

Composed by Cy Leo

Echo of Krug 2011

Composed by Ozark Henry

LEARN MORE ABOUT KRUG X MUSIC

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.