Krug Collection 1981

To the delight of collectors around the world, a very limited number of bottles of Krug Vintage are kept in ideal conditions in the House’s cellars. They are tasted and appraised as they wait to blossom into a second life. Krug Vintage then becomes Krug Collection and reveals a new personality. Krug Collection Champagnes are true examples of time sublimation; maturity exposes hidden facets and depth. New flavours surprise, while old ones have gained structure. Krug Collection is always a wonderful discovery, a deeper story of the Krug Vintage. Krug Collection 1981 is time’s second revelation of Krug 1981.

Purchase

Champagne notes

A talk with Julie Cavil

Krug Cellar Master

In 1981, a mild, wet winter was followed by severe frosts in April and a long, sunny summer. It was a warm and bright October harvest that was exceptionally small, but grapes were nonetheless healthy with a good balance of maturity and freshness. Krug 1981 was created with wines of incisive freshness with hints of citrus in its youth. From the first tastings of the still wines, the ‘grand blancs” were showing their outstanding character.

A year of Chardonnay captured by Krug, 1981 gave birth to a blend of 50% Chardonnay, 31% Pinot Noir and 19% Meunier. This was the first time in the history of the House that a Krug Vintage was created with such a predominance of Chardonnay, a feat since only repeated once, over a decade later in 1998.

As with all Krug Champagnes, Krug Collection 1981 will continue to gain with the passage of time.

The Krug Collection bottles are numbered and leave the House in descending order, thereby revealing how many of these precious Champagnes still remain. They are guaranteed by Krug with a certificate of authenticity signed by Olivier Krug, which can be provided upon request.

Ratings

"The 1981 Collection has begun to slowly enter a plateau of maturity marked by slightly oxidative, tertiary notes that give the wine its burnished, resonant personality. Open-knit and creamy on the palate, the 1981 is an ideal wine for current drinking, as it is not likely to improve much from here. Stone fruit, vanilla, hazelnut, truffle, orange peel brioche and dried flowers are some of the many notes that grace the exquisite finish. This is a tremendous showing."

Antonio Galloni 2020

RATING: 97/100

Tasting notes

Krug Collection 1981 is the second life of Krug 1981 with distinct and different flavours and aromas.
On the nose, rare aromas of white truffle and sweet spices, ripe apples and candied citrus, followed by mellow flavours of apricot and honey.
On the palate, it is unctuous and generous, with remarkable volume and opulence and an extremely long finish that leaves a lasting impression of elegance and distinction.
Reminiscent of Krug 1981, the original freshness and vivacity of this Champagne remain.

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Tasting notes

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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 Collection 1981 is ideal alongside fresh white fish, shrimps or lobster with light lemongrass, mango or slightly spicy sauces. It is also a delicious match for carrot cake, aged comté, autumn fruit desserts or orange and ginger soufflé.

Food Pairing

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.