Krug
Krug is one of the world’s most prestigious champagne houses, founded in 1843 by Joseph Krug in Reims, in the heart of the Champagne region. Joseph Krug, a German immigrant, established the house with a unique philosophy: to create the best champagne each year, regardless of the weather conditions. This led to the practice of blending multiple reserve wines, some over 15 years old, ensuring consistency and richness in every bottle. Unlike most champagne houses, Krug ferments its wines in small oak barrels, which adds depth and complexity, and the champagnes often undergo extended aging, sometimes for 10 years or more.
Krug’s approach to winemaking is distinct from others due to its emphasis on blending and the use of reserve wines. Krug Grande Cuvée, the house’s flagship champagne, is composed of more than 120 different wines from 10 different vintages, embodying the richness, complexity, and long finish that define the Krug style. Other notable offerings include Krug Rosé, a subtle and elegant rosé champagne; Krug Vintage, produced only in exceptional years to reflect the character of a specific harvest; and the prestigious single-vineyard champagnes Krug Clos du Mesnil and Krug Clos d'Ambonnay, both of which are considered ultimate expressions of Krug’s craftsmanship.
Since 1999, Krug has been part of the luxury group LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton), yet it continues to uphold its traditional values and high standards, maintaining its reputation as a leader in the champagne world. Despite this corporate affiliation, Krug remains committed to the artisanal methods and philosophy that Joseph Krug envisioned, ensuring that each bottle of Krug is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The house is also known for its strong sense of identity and connection to its heritage, with Olivier Krug, a sixth-generation descendant of Joseph Krug, deeply involved in the house’s operations.
Krug champagnes are celebrated globally for their uncompromising quality and craftsmanship, often regarded as benchmarks in the industry. They are highly prized by connoisseurs and collectors, frequently appearing at high-profile events and auctions. In the culinary world, Krug holds a significant place in haute cuisine, with many top chefs and sommeliers considering it the ultimate pairing for gourmet dishes. Krug’s champagnes are known for their versatility and ability to elevate a wide range of culinary experiences.
In recent years, Krug has also focused on sustainability, both in its vineyards and production processes, with a commitment to reducing its environmental impact and preserving the terroir of Champagne for future generations.