1996 krug, vintage brut

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Bottle size (ML)

Why We're Buying

Krug Vintage Brut represents the expression of the year, according to Krug. It features different wines from a single year, blended and aged for at least a decade before release. The wine, which debuted in 2000 to celebrate the new millennium, earned Grand Gold from Mundus Vini in 2000 and 2001. “Classic Beauty.” That is the nickname bestowed on 2008 Krug Vintage Brut by the Champagne house’s tasting committee. The cuvée of pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay has a chiseled frame and ultra-expressive nose that makes it an instant classic. The 2008 vintage benefited from immaculate weather. The mild conditions produced perfectly fresh fruit with outstanding heterogeneity between the vineyards of Aÿ, Bouzy and Ambonnay. With the touch of cellar master Julie Cavil, the fruit reaches a harmonious balance while preserving the complete spectrum of flavors and aromas. Critics have lobbed praise at 2008 Krug from all angles. James Suckling awarded it a 100-point rating, calling it “a perfect 2008.” Others have called it “a supernova of sensation” and “(with) perfect balance.” At Vinovest, we call it a must-have.

Critics Scores

Wine Spectator

A powerful, majestic Champagne. Deep and compelling, with aromas of whole-grain toast, coconut and dried citrus that draw you in. Lean and racy on the palate, with a creaminess that's yet to be integrated. A classic '96, with ripe, exotic aromas and a steely structure. Still a baby, with the long, resonant finish confirming its potential. Best from 2009 through 2040.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The real surprise among Krug’s 1996s is the 1996 Vintage, which is drinking beautifully, even among this rarified air of single-vineyard Champagnes. The 1996 Vintage is explosive and creamy, with just the right balance of power, richness and freshness. The mousse is perhaps just a touch less refined than in the 1996 Clos du Mesnil and Clos d’Ambonnay, but it is also perfectly measured with the wine’s exuberant personality. This multi-dimensional, textured Champagne is at the early part of its drinking window and promises to deliver an incredible drinking experience over the coming decades. The take-away from this flight of 1996s from Krug is simple. Although the 1996 Vintage can’t possibly be described as inexpensive, it shows exceptionally well next to its much more expensive brethren and clearly delivers a similar level of quality. Readers who have the opportunity to pick up this wine should not hesitate. It is a gem. No disgorgement date provided. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2036.