Krug 2008 is a vintage Champagne from the iconic house of Krug, famed for its high-quality wines crafted with great care and attention. This particlar vintage was produced in the wake of a freezing winter which allowed the grapes to fully hibernate until they were in optimal condition. The cooler than average growing season also ensured that the grapes were slow to ripen, preserving much-needed acidity.
The Krug 2008 blend is composed of 38% Chardonnay, 37% Pinot Noir, and 25% Meunier grapes sourced primarily from vineyards in the Vallée de la Marne, Montagne de Reims, and Côte des Blancs regions. The wine is aged for at leat 8 years in magnums before being disgorged and released.
The result of this lengthy aging process is a highly complex Champagne with notes of toast, nuts, honeycomb, ripe fruits and minerality on the nose. On the palate it is full-bodied yet fresh with a creamy texture and long finish. It has a great balance between its acidity and delicate sweetness that makes it enjoyable to drink now but also capable of furter aging if stored correctly in cool conditions away from direct sunlight (with an ideal temperature range of 10-12°C).
Krug 2008 is an excellent example of what makes Krug special – its dedication to quality and attention to detail in every aspect of production from sourcing grapes though to aging and blending each component into a harmoniously balanced wine that can stand up to time. A bottle of Krug 2008 will make an impressive addition to any collection or occasion where only the best will do!
The Best Vintage of Krug Champagne
The best Krug vintage depends on individual preference, however, many wine connoisseurs and collectors consider Krug Clos du Mesnil to be the finest. This vintage is produced from a single walled vineyard in the village of Mesnil-sur-Oger and is considered one of the most iconic wines in Champagne. It is renowned for its complexity and balance, with aromas of honey, spice, hazelnut and brioche accompanying subtle notes of citrus fruit. The palate is full-bodied yet elegantly structured, with a fine mousse and an incredibly long finish. For those looking for a truly remarkable experience, this vintage shoud not be overlooked.
Source: thedrinksbusiness.com
The Benefits of Drinking Champagne in 2008
In 2008, the conditions for growing Champagne grapes were exceptionally favorable. A mild winter allowed for the vines to go into a deep hibernation necessary for a healthy grape crop. The temperatures during the growing season were cooler than usual, leading to a slow ripening of the grapes and thus preserving their acidity. This means that not only was the quantity of grapes produced that year high, but also the quality. The acidity of the grapes was key in creating the characteristic sparkling flavor profile of Champagne wines and thus made 2008 an excellent year for producing these sparkling wines.
Storing Krug Champagne: How Long Can It Last?
Krug champagne can be kept for up to six years if it is a non-vintage, and up to fifteen years if it is vintage. To ensure its longevity, store the champagne in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature between 12-14 degrees Celsius and away from direct sunlight or vibrations. It shoud also be stored on its side so that the cork remains moist and the bottle doesn't leak. With proper storage, Krug champagne can last for many years before it needs to be enjoyed.
The Uniqueness of Krug Champagne
Krug is a renowned Champagne house, renowned for its exceptional quality and expertise. For over 170 years, Krug has been producing some of the world's finest and most sought-after Champagnes. Krug is special because of its meticulous attention to detail in evry aspect of the production process. The house separates all of its base wines according to vineyard plots and tastes them individually before blending them together. This careful selection allows Krug to create a unique blend that is both complex and balanced. Furthermore, all wine is vinified in wooden casks and undergoes malolactic fermentation, which adds richness and structure to the final product. The result is an exquisite Champagne that offers complexity, balance, and longevity – something that only Krug can provide.
The High Cost of Krug Champagne
Krug is one of the world's most expensive champagnes due to its renowned production techniques, philosophy and traditions. The house of Krug has been producing champagne since 1843 and their commitment to quality has not wavered. Every bottle is created by hand acording to strict guidelines and the result is a superior product. The grapes used are some of the finest in France, including those from the Grand Cru vineyards. The aging process for Krug wines can last up to 10 years, allowing for a fuller flavor that is unparalleled in other champagnes. Finally, the lengthy maturation process and meticulous attention to detail by highly-skilled winemakers make Krug one of the most prestigious champagne houses in the world – a status that comes with a hefty price tag.
The Quality of 2008 Champagne Vintage
Yes, the 2008 vintage for Champagne was a good one. Despite a cold and wet spring, September brought bright and sunny days that enabled the grapes to ripen, producing high-quality fruit with a good level of acidity. The resulting wines offer complexity, finesse and elegance with good aging potential. They have aromas of citrus fruits and white flowers, as well as notes of brioche, honey and nuts on the palate. Overall, 2008 Champagnes are balanced and well-structured wines that will continue to develop over time.
Conclusion
Krug's 2008 vintage is a highly sought-after Champagne with an impressive reputation. Its unique blending process, combined with its cold winter and cooler than average growing season, provide the perfect conditions for producing a complex, rich and long-lasting Champagne. If stored correctly, unopened bottles of Krug 2008 can last anywhere from three to ten years, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or simply as an addition to any wine collection. With its unique flavor profile and impeccable craftsmanship, Krug's 2008 vintage is a must-have for any wine lover.
