In the cellar

Krug Vintage 1998

The story of the year, captured by Krug.

At Maison Krug, every Krug Vintage celebrates the distinct character of a particular year – a blend of its most expressive wines, enhanced by a stay of over ten years in the cellars. Each Krug Vintage is different: it tells the story of the unique circumstances of the year, of what surprised, enchanted or moved our Tasting Committee in the tasting room.

Crafted from a year that offered optimal conditions for Chardonnay, Krug 1998 expresses the character and elegance of a classic vintage in Champagne, with typical weather full of contrast. Revealing astounding texture and depth, the Tasting Committee nicknamed this champagne “A Tribute to Chardonnay.”

Krug 1998 is a blend of Chardonnay (46%) Pinot Noir (35%), and Meunier (19%).

Part 1

A word from

The cellar master

The hot weather in August resulted in opulent Pinot Noir and Meunier wines. Chardonnay from the beginning of the harvest, especially from the Côte des Blancs and Trépail balanced the blend, reinjecting vivacity. Upon the first tastings, it was an obvious choice to craft Krug 1998 predominantly from Chardonnay. Krug 1998 is the second of all Krug Vintages for which this is the case. The first was 1981.

Julie Cavil, Krug cellar master

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Part 2

FOOD PAIRINGS

Krug 1998 can be enjoyed with delicate fish such as sea bass or turbot accompanied by lemon sauces or citrus fruit, as well as spicy or exotic dishes – including Japanese, Chinese, Indian or Thai – with crystallised ginger and other spices.

TASTING NOTES

Deep light golden colour announcing the unique contrast between freshness and maturity.

On the nose, expressive aromas of bread, hazelnut, dried fruit, caramelised orange peel, then cocoa as it warms up, and finally pepper and gingerbread.

On the palate, flavours of crystallised citrus fruits, caramelised orange peel, dried fruits, pepper and gingerbread, with a soft, creamy texture.

Note:

Serving 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.

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Note:

The Joseph Glass

In 2011, we partnered with renowned crystalware maker, Riedel, to design a glass that would reveal the fullness of flavours and aromas of Krug champagnes.

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Note:

The Influence of Time

All Krug champagnes gain in complexity and patina with the passage of time. We recommend storing them at the same temperature as you intend to serve them, between 9°C and 12°C.

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RATINGS

"This harmonious Champagne offers luxurious texture and powerful, focused acidity, showing aromatic accents of spring blossom, crushed thyme and chai, with rich notes of lemon meringue, hazelnut, black currant and fresh porcini mushroom. The full package. Impressive."

Rating: 98/100

Wine Spectator - 2012

The Krug Experience