Krug 2000: A Prestigious Vintage Champagne

In the realm of luxury champagne, Krug is a beacon of excellence. The Krug 2000 vintage exemplifies the house’s unwavering dedication to quality. Despite encountering unique challenges, this vintage champagne stands as a testament to Krug’s mastery in winemaking.

The year 2000 presented mild winters and a sudden July hailstorm to the Champagne region. Yet, Krug’s adept team managed to create a harmonious blend. This champagne showcases the finest qualities of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Meunier grapes.

Connoisseurs extol Krug 2000 for its profound depth and intricate complexity. Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate bestowed upon it a remarkable 95 points in 2013. This accolade underscores the champagne’s outstanding quality and its potential for aging.

Key Takeaways

• Krug 2000 overcame challenging weather conditions
• The blend includes Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Meunier grapes
• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate rated it 95 points
• Krug uses over 120 wines from 3 varietals in their blends
• The House maintains a library of about 150 reserve wines
• Krug Grande Cuvée ages for at least 7 years before release

The Legacy of Krug Champagne House

Krug’s history is deeply embedded in France’s champagne heritage. Founded in 1843 by Joseph Krug, this luxury brand has been perfecting exquisite champagnes for nearly two centuries. Joseph’s vision was to craft high-quality champagne every year, regardless of climate variations.

Joseph Krug’s Founding Vision

Joseph Krug’s dedication to excellence set the stage for Krug’s lasting success. He aimed to create cuvées of equal quality and distinction, ensuring a consistent champagne experience. This vision is still evident in Krug’s Grande Cuvée, which blends over 120 wines from 10 or more vintages.

Evolution Through Generations

The Krug family’s passion for champagne has endured through generations. In the 1970s, brothers Henri and Remi Krug expanded the range with a rosé champagne. They also discovered exceptional Chardonnay plots in Mesnil-sur-Oger, leading to the creation of exclusive cuvées like Krug Clos du Mesnil and Krug Clos d’Ambonnay.

LVMH Acquisition and Modern Era

In 1999, Krug joined the LVMH group, ushering in a new era. Today, sixth-generation family member Olivier Krug works alongside Cellar Master Julie Cavil to preserve the house’s legacy. Krug continues to innovate, aging its champagnes for extended periods and exploring unique food pairings through programs like Krug X Ingredient.

Understanding Krug 2000 Vintage

The 2000 vintage is a pivotal moment in Champagne’s history. Krug’s dedication to winemaking is evident in this exceptional year. It was marked by unique weather patterns and vineyard challenges.

Weather Conditions of 2000

The Champagne climate in 2000 was highly variable. A mild winter transitioned into a rainy spring, delaying vine budding. July’s severe hailstorm impacted 13% of the appellation area. Yet, the region’s resilient terroir hinted at a promising harvest.

Harvest Details and Challenges

The Krug harvest commenced on September 11 and concluded by September 25, 2000. Grapes were notably larger, presenting both opportunities and challenges. The winemaking team’s expertise was crucial in overcoming these hurdles to produce a stellar vintage.

Production Timeline

The creation of Krug 2000 vintage was a labor of love. Multiple tasting sessions were conducted to determine the final blend. This meticulous process underscores Krug’s commitment to excellence.

The 2000 vintage showcases Krug’s prowess in crafting exceptional Champagne, even in challenging years. It embodies the house’s philosophy of creating distinctive wines that reflect their origin and the season’s singular nature.

The Perfect Blend: Composition Analysis

The Krug blend of 2000 exemplifies the artistry of Champagne crafting. It combines three classic grapes in a symphony that embodies its terroir’s essence.

Grape Variety Distribution

Krug’s 2000 vintage presents a balanced blend of Champagne grapes. It features 43% Chardonnay, contributing elegance and finesse. Pinot Noir, making up 42%, adds body and structure. The final 15% is Meunier, enhancing the blend with fruitiness and roundness.

Vineyard Selection Process

Krug’s winemaking team meticulously selected grapes from various vineyards. They chose plots from Trépail, Villers-Marmery, Avize, Mesnil, Ambonnay, Bouzy, Aÿ, Saint Gemme, and Villevanard. This careful selection ensures a balance of ripe citrus notes and the power of great white grape varieties.

Terroir Influence

The terroir significantly influences Krug 2000’s character. Each plot brings unique traits to the blend, reflecting the soil, climate, and topography of its origin. This complex interplay of terroir elements results in a Champagne that embodies the best qualities of its diverse vineyard sources.

Tasting Notes and Critical Acclaim

Krug 2000 has garnered significant attention among wine aficionados for its outstanding tasting notes. This vintage champagne presents a harmonious blend of flavors, securing it top ratings from critics.

Professional Ratings Overview

Renowned critics have lavished praise on Krug 2000. Wine Advocate bestowed a 95/100 rating, while Jancis Robinson MW awarded it an impressive 18.5/20. James Suckling’s 99-point score underscores its medium-bodied structure and intricate flavor profile.

Flavor Profile Description

The Krug 2000 boasts a rich flavor profile. Wine Spectator highlighted its vivid character, featuring crushed black raspberry, coffee liqueur, and pink grapefruit sorbet. The palate is a delightful mix of apple, pie crust, and floral notes, with hints of ginger and orange zest.

Aromatic Complexity

The aromatic profile of Krug 2000 is equally captivating. Tasting Panel noted aromas of white flowers, preserved lemon, and nuts. The finish is characterized by grilled lemon and creamy yellow plum, leaving a lasting impression.

Krug 2000’s composition of 45% Pinot Noir, 37% Chardonnay, and 18% Meunier contributes to its complex nature. This vintage embodies Krug’s dedication to crafting prestige champagnes with intense bouquets and intricate flavors. Aged in small oak casks for 6-8 years, it develops rich, nutty notes while retaining its freshness.

The Distinctive Winemaking Process

Krug’s winemaking process is unparalleled in champagne production. The house owns just 50 acres of vines, yet they rely on long-term contracts for 70% of their grapes. This strategy underscores their commitment to quality and sustainability, as they transition towards organic viticulture in their estate vineyards.

The prestige cuvée process begins with primary fermentation in 205-liter oak barrels. Krug employs over 4000 barrels, with an average age of 20 years. This distinctive method significantly contributes to the champagnes’ complex flavors.

The blending process at Krug is nothing short of meticulous. The Tasting Committee meticulously records 4000 notes on 250 wines from the current year and 150 reserve wines. This rigorous selection guarantees that each bottle embodies the essence of Champagne’s rich terroir.

Chief winemaker Eric Lebel commences blending Krug Grande Cuvée in March, following five months of tasting. His dedication culminates in harmonious flavor profiles that champagne aficionados globally cherish.

Krug’s reserve wine library is instrumental to their success. Wines from over ten different years are incorporated into each blend. This approach imbues their champagnes with depth and complexity, distinguishing Krug in the realm of prestige cuvée production.

Expert Reviews and Ratings of Krug 2000

Krug 2000 has garnered high praise from wine critics, solidifying its status as a top-tier champagne. This vintage has impressed experts with its exceptional quality and complexity.

James Suckling’s 98-Point Rating

James Suckling awarded Krug 2000 an impressive 98 points. He praised its fragrance and complexity, highlighting the champagne’s remarkable depth and character.

Wine Spectator’s Assessment

Wine Spectator gave Krug 2000 a stellar 97-point rating. They noted its richness and mouthwatering quality, emphasizing the champagne’s luxurious taste profile.

Other Notable Critics’ Scores

Krug 2000 received high marks from several other respected wine critics. Burghound awarded it 96 points, praising its layered and nuanced profile. Vinous Media and Wine Advocate both gave it 95 points, with the former describing it as a wine of striking depth and resonance, and the latter emphasizing its saline and mineral qualities.

These champagne reviews underscore the exceptional quality of Krug 2000. Wine critics consistently praise its complexity, depth, and unique flavor profile, making it a standout vintage in the world of fine champagnes.

Aging Potential and Peak Drinking Window

Krug 2000 aging exemplifies remarkable longevity, making it a coveted choice for champagne cellaring aficionados. This exceptional cuvée showcases the true potential of vintage longevity in premium Champagne.

Wine experts concur on Krug 2000’s impressive aging capacity. James Suckling, a renowned critic, suggests this vintage can be savored now or aged for up to two decades. Wine Spectator also aligns with this view, advising consumption now through 2030.

The Krug 2000 is at a captivating stage in its evolution. Its maturing nose contrasts with a still-youthful palate, suggesting a long life ahead. This complexity positions it as an ideal candidate for extended champagne cellaring.

• Current drinking window: 2023-2030
• Potential peak: 2025-2028
• Maximum aging potential: 20+ years from vintage

For optimal results in champagne cellaring, store Krug 2000 at a consistent temperature of 50-55°F (10-13°C) with 70-75% humidity. This ensures the wine develops gracefully, preserving its delicate bubbles and intricate flavor profile throughout its aging journey.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Krug food pairing unveils a realm of gourmet experiences. The versatility of Krug Champagne enables the creation of exciting champagne and food combinations. These pairings enhance any dining occasion, making it memorable.

Classic Combinations

Krug’s dry Brut style is a perfect match for creamy, buttery dishes. The Grande Cuvée pairs luxuriously with lobster or risotto. The Clos du Mesnil Brut Blanc de Blancs complements fish and poultry, achieving a harmonious balance of flavors.

Contemporary Culinary Matches

For modern gourmet pairings, consider Krug’s Brut Rosé. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as pea soup with foie gras, roast venison, or spicy chicken coconut curry. The Clos d’Ambonnay Blanc de Noirs, on the other hand, offers a bold flavor contrast when paired with herb-crusted beef rib.

Special Occasion Suggestions

Elevate your celebrations with unique Krug food pairings. Surprise your guests by serving the Grande Cuvée with buttered popcorn or homemade potato chips. For a memorable feast, pair Krug Vintage Champagne with caramelized scallops or shrimp in basil and mustard sauce.

Investment Value and Collection Worthiness

Krug 2000 emerges as a top contender for champagne enthusiasts and those diversifying their wine portfolios. Its rarity, with only 949 cases produced, significantly boosts its appeal for those interested in Krug investments. The vintage’s outstanding quality and potential for aging make it a crucial asset for any serious collector.

Historically, Krug vintages have demonstrated remarkable price growth. For instance, a bottle of Krug 1915 sold at Sotheby’s for a staggering $116,000. While newer vintages may not fetch such high prices, they still hold considerable investment potential.

Recent market trends affirm the investment merits of Krug. The Liv-ex Champagne 50 index, despite a brief 10.4% dip in early 2023, remains robust. Champagne dominates wine trades, with 5,298 cases traded in 2022, valued at £11.3 million.

For collectors, Krug 2000 offers a chance to possess a piece of champagne history. Its limited production guarantees exclusivity, a critical factor in long-term value appreciation. As the vintage matures, its flavor profile will evolve, potentially enhancing both its sensory appeal and market value.

Investors should recognize Krug’s Clos du Mesnil offerings have shown impressive returns. Since March 2020, these wines have averaged a 67% return, equating to an annualized 16%. This performance highlights the potential of Krug champagnes as investment vehicles.

Serving and Storage Guidelines

Proper champagne serving and wine storage are essential for maintaining the exquisite qualities of Krug 2000. This prestigious vintage requires careful attention to temperature and environment. This ensures optimal enjoyment of its complex flavors.

Optimal Temperature

The ideal serving temperature for Krug 2000 is slightly warmer than non-vintage champagnes. Aim for 50-54°F (10-12°C) to fully appreciate its complex flavors. Serving too cold can mask the wine’s nuanced aromas.

Glassware Selection

Opt for tulip-shaped champagne flutes to enhance the aromatic experience of Krug 2000. These glasses concentrate the bubbles and direct the wine’s bouquet towards your nose. This maximizes enjoyment of the wine’s aromas.

Cellar Conditions

For long-term wine storage, maintain a consistent environment. Store Krug 2000 in a dark place with steady temperature between 50-55°F (10-13°C). Humidity levels should be 60-70%. Avoid areas with vibrations or fluctuating temperatures.

Vintage champagnes like Krug 2000 can age gracefully for 5 to 10 years when stored properly. By following these guidelines, each sip of this exceptional champagne will be a testament to its craftsmanship and quality.

Comparing Krug 2000 with Other Vintages

The Krug 2000 vintage exemplifies the pinnacle of winemaking under adverse conditions. It is a champagne years marvel, crafted from a blend of 43% Chardonnay, 42% Pinot Noir, and 15% Meunier. Enthusiasts frequently engage in Krug vintage comparison to discern the subtleties of various wine vintages.

When juxtaposed with other celebrated years, the 2000 Krug demonstrates its own distinctiveness. It aligns with the classic Krug style, akin to the 1995 and 1996 vintages, in terms of complexity and aging potential. The 2000 vintage is distinguished by its pure and complex nose, outstanding minerality, and bright acidity. These attributes rival the depth and structure of its predecessors.

In a vertical tasting of 17 Krug vintages from 2008 to 1976, the 2000 vintage emerged as a standout for its quality and longevity. While some critics lauded the 1996 vintage for its power, others preferred the 2000’s balance and finesse. The 2000 Clos du Mesnil, a special bottling, received exceptional acclaim, drawing parallels with the esteemed 1995 and 1996 Clos du Mesnil releases.

The Krug 2000 vintage, while not universally regarded as the best, is undoubtedly a valuable addition to any champagne collection. Its unique character, born from a challenging year, provides a distinct experience within the realm of fine champagnes.

Conclusion

Krug 2000 exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury wine craftsmanship. This vintage champagne experience is a testament to the house’s skill in overcoming adverse weather conditions. It results in a product of unparalleled excellence. The complex flavor profile and impressive aging potential have garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying its status among the finest in the world of fine wines.

The Krug 2000 summary highlights its significance within the Krug portfolio. While Grande Cuvée is the most common Krug Champagne, with a history dating back to 1978, the 2000 vintage offers a unique allure. The meticulous blending process, involving over 130 components and reserve wines from various vintages, underscores Krug’s dedication to quality and consistency.

For connoisseurs and collectors, Krug 2000 transcends mere luxury wine; it represents an investment in excellence. With limited production numbers, such as the mere 5,000 bottles of Clos d’Ambonnay 2000, each bottle is a treasured asset. Whether savored immediately or aged for future enjoyment, Krug 2000 promises a vintage champagne experience that epitomizes the artistry of winemaking.