This jeroboam spent at least 14 years in Krug's cellars, receiving its cork in autumn 2012. Composed of a selection of the year's most characterful wines, Krug 1998 is the expression of the year 1998 revealed by Krug.

As it is a jeroboam, we let it rest for even longer, waiting until the Champagne is ready to be enjoyed.

In 1998, the classic contrasts so often seen in Champagne were played out to extremes. We watched as the mercury crept up to a sweltering 39°C in August, before breaking with heavy rains. We carefully followed the progress of each plot, waiting to see how they might be affected. But then September, in its habitual benevolence, brought exceptionally dry and mild conditions and we started the harvest at the end of the month with complete peace of mind.

When the time came to taste the wines of the year, the Chardonnays from certain plots in Trépail and the Côte des Blancs area immediately emerged as stars for their lustrous vibrancy and dynamic character. To this was added the characteristic structure of the Pinot Noirs from plots in the southern Montagne de Reims region, providing one key to Krug 1998's ageing potential. The final touch of freshness came from the Meuniers, mainly selected from plots in Leuvrigny on the south side of the Marne Valley, less exposed to August's hot sun.

The predominance of Chardonnay in the blend is a rarity in the history of the House of Krug, with just one other Vintage sharing this quality - that of 1981. Krug 1998 associates roundness and warmth, precision and freshness, expressing the essence of a quintessentially contrasted year.

The final composition of this bottle of Krug 1998 is 37% Pinot Noir, 47% Chardonnay and 16% Meunier.

At the House of Krug every Vintage is crafted to be different, celebrating the distinct character of a particular year. It is as if Krug 1998 were the music of the year, captured by Krug.