Champagne AOC Brut Grande Cuvée 173ème Édition Krug

What kind of wine is it

The Krug Grande Cuvée, Edition 173, is the Brut Champagne that represents the house’s most continuous expression: a blend of numerous base wines from different plots across Champagne, conceived to offer a consistent profile every year regardless of the vintage’s weather conditions. The edition number indicates how many times, since the house was founded in 1843, this goal has been achieved. The profile stands out for a creamy weave and well-integrated freshness, the result of a broad selection of vintage and reserve wines that contribute complexity and depth. This is an elegant, persistent Champagne, suited both as an aperitif and at the table.

Where it comes from

This Champagne comes from the Champagne region in northeastern France, home to Krug since 1843. Grapes and base wines are selected from different areas and historic villages, with the aim of integrating diverse characteristics to achieve balance and depth. The multi-parcel approach underpins the house style and ensures consistency over time, edition after edition.

How it is made

Production involves vinifying numerous base wines separately, followed by the art of blending according to the Traditional Method, characteristic of Champagne. The blend for this 173rd edition is drawn from 150 base wines selected from 13 different vintages, from the youngest (2017) to the oldest (2001), enriched with reserve wines from various plots and a further 10 vintages, which give depth and personality to the final blend. A Brut-style dosage maintains energy and persistence in the glass.

Tasting notes

In appearance, it shows an intense golden yellow, with a fine, persistent mousse. On the nose, layered aromas of toasted bread, brioche, ripe stone fruit, verbena and vanilla custard, with a hint of rum baba. The palate is rich and creamy, supported by bright freshness, with notes of peach in syrup, ripe citrus and toasted pine nuts, leading to a crisp lemon finish. The overall impression is one of structure, precision and long aromatic persistence.

What to pair it with

The versatility of this Champagne makes it suitable both as an aperitif and with more complex dishes. It pairs well with aged Parmigiano, Jabugo ham and seafood such as oysters, enhancing the wine’s saline edge and tension. Excellent also with asparagus with butter and sautéed garlic, it holds its own with white meats in sauce and preparations based on butter and citrus, amplifying the toasty notes and persistence of the wine.

When to serve it

This Champagne is ideal for get-togethers as well as to accompany a full meal, thanks to its energy, depth and definition. It offers immediate pleasure for its precision and creaminess, making it a versatile choice from a refined aperitif to a wine for the entire meal.