Krug Vintage 2011 Brut Champagne in gift box

Capturing a specific moment and then bottling it is a wonderful way to celebrate the unique character of a particular year in Krug's historic vineyards. Each Krug vintage is a harmonious blend of the most expressive wines from a single year, refined by a stay of more than 10 years in the cellars, and this 2011 release is wonderfully unique. After an unpredictable and extreme year, marked by sudden heatwaves just before harvest, this 2011 vintage contains an unusually intense and ripe Chardonnay proportion, making up 37% of the finished assemblage. The resulting vintage is characterized by a vibrant richness that perfectly captures the character of 2011.

Assemblage and Origin:
2011 was an unpredictable year in the vineyards – early hot weather caused vines to grow quickly and led to an earlier bloom than usual, while a surge in temperatures just before harvest resulted in juicier, riper grapes than in previous harvests. Almost half of the assemblage (46%) comes from a selection of grapes from Krug's Pinot Noir parcels, bringing beautiful structure and splendid balance, while 17% comes from Meunier, adding freshness with elegant bitter notes. The wines from Krug's Chardonnay parcels were most affected by the surge in hot temperatures, bringing riper and juicier fruit aromas to 37% of the assemblage, as well as a roundness and generosity, instead of the usual tension. After 12 years in the cellars, the 2011 vintage has gained in expression, harmony, and finesse and will – like all Krug Champagnes – continue to improve with age.

Color:
An intense, brilliant, and golden hue

Aroma:
Initial notes of fresh, ripe apricots and white fruits give way to a spicy starfruit taste and fresh citrus zest, followed by mentholated, licorice nuances with a hint of basil.

Taste:
Powerful and round on the palate, with flavors of stewed, caramelized, and dried fruits, followed by marzipan, barley, sugar, praline, honey, and hazelnut. Hints of smokiness, thyme, and rosemary follow, before a lively, lingering finish with flavors of blood orange, sea salt, and grapefruit zest.

Serving suggestions:
Krug 2011 is a vintage that pairs deliciously with grilled meats, shashlik or Greek dishes, as well as characterful seafood such as black crab. The distinct nature of this Champagne allows it to pair magnificently with spicy dishes, as well as delicious desserts such as rhubarb cake and bitter orange marmalade.