Since 1843, Maison Krug has pursued the exacting dream of its founder, Joseph Krug: to offer the finest champagne possible every year, regardless of variations in the climate. The Krug Grande Cuvée 172ème Édition is a luminous interpretation of this vision, conceived as a work of blending in which time becomes an ingredient. Presented in its luxury gift box, this 75 cl bottle is made for occasions destined to become cherished memories—a major family celebration, a gourmet dinner or the delicate art of giving. Created around the 2016 harvest, it is not limited to a single year: 146 wines from 11 different years, from 1998 to 2016, come together here in remarkable harmony. After nearly seven years of ageing in the cellar, this Grande Cuvée reveals a full, precise and deeply elegant expression. It is intended for enthusiasts seeking a characterful brut champagne, capable of accompanying an entire meal and transforming the table into a true tasting experience.

Blend and winemaking

The 172ème Édition is based on an exceptionally rich blend, bringing together 146 wines from 11 different years. The 2016 harvest forms its core, while the oldest wines date back to 1998. This carefully developed structure enables Maison Krug to create a cuvée that transcends the expression of a single harvest. The blend comprises 44% Pinot Noir, 36% Chardonnay and 20% Meunier, including 42% reserve wines. Each component contributes its own nuance to this Champagne tapestry: structure, brilliance, fruit and depth complement one another without ever becoming indistinguishable. Nearly seven years of ageing in the cellar complete this pursuit of balance, allowing the aromas to meld and the texture to gain in smoothness.

Tasting notes

• Appearance: Golden and luminous, animated by fine bubbles that herald the cuvée’s richness and precision.
• Nose: A subtle bouquet revealing hazelnut, almond, brioche, flowers, ripe or candied citrus, marzipan and gingerbread.
• Palate: Full and silky, it unfolds notes of honey, dried fruit, ripe pear and orange zest. Freshness balances its generosity, leading to a long, elegant and lightly toasted finish.

Serving temperature and advice

Serve Krug Grande Cuvée 172ème Édition between 9 and 12°C to allow its bouquet to unfold beautifully. A temperature that is too low would conceal the finesse of its brioche and fruit nuances, while careful serving gradually reveals its depth. Pour it into suitable champagne glasses and allow it a few minutes to open up. This brief period of breathing gives the notes of dried fruit, candied citrus and honey greater definition. As an aperitif, it offers a refined presence; at the table, it reveals another dimension, more enveloping and gastronomic. Its complexity invites attentive, unhurried tasting, much like taking the time to listen to the successive movements of a musical composition.

Food pairings

• Appetisers: fine de claire oysters or marinated prawns, highlighting the freshness and delicacy of its bubbles.
• Starters: scallop carpaccio or turbot with truffle, refined pairings that extend its maritime and toasted notes.
• Main courses: Parmesan risotto, free-range chicken or Indian-style prawns, complementing its full texture and aromatic depth.
• Cheeses: aged Comté or mature Parmesan, whose lingering flavours naturally echo its dried-fruit nuances.
• Desserts: tarte tatin, carrot cake or almond shortbread, for a delicious conclusion without disrupting the cuvée’s balance.

Occasions for tasting

Krug Grande Cuvée 172ème Édition is the ideal companion for occasions where every detail matters. Its luxury gift box makes it a gift of rare distinction, perfect for marking a birthday, a reunion or an achievement to be celebrated in style. At a gourmet dinner, it accompanies lingering conversations and thoughtfully crafted dishes. It also appeals to the discerning enthusiast who appreciates the singularity of a champagne made from multiple years and shaped by a long period of cellar ageing. More than a celebratory bottle, it offers an evolving tasting experience: each sip reveals a new accent, from citrus freshness and pear sweetness to the depth of toasted notes.

Characteristics

• Name: Krug Grande Cuvée 172ème Édition, Coffret Luxe
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Type: Brut
• Harvest at the heart of the edition: 2016
• Blend: 146 wines from 11 different years, from 1998 to 2016
• Grape varieties: 44% Pinot Noir, 36% Chardonnay, 20% Meunier
• Reserve wines: 42%
• Alcohol content: 12.5%
• Ageing: approximately 7 years in the cellar
• 容量: 75 cl
• Serving temperature: 9 to 12°C
• Allergens: contains sulphites