Champagne Brut AOC Grande Cuvée 173ème Édition Krug

What kind of wine is it

The Krug Grande Cuvée, Edition 173, is the Brut Champagne that embodies the most continuous expression of the Maison Krug: an assemblage of numerous base wines from different parcels across Champagne, conceived to deliver a consistent profile every year regardless of the vintage’s climatic conditions. The edition number indicates how many times, since the Maison’s founding in 1843, this objective has been achieved. Its profile stands out for a creamy texture and well-integrated freshness, the result of a wide selection of vintage and reserve wines that contribute complexity and depth. This is an Champagne elegant and persistent, suited both as an aperitif and at the table.

Where it comes from

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

How it is made

Production involves the separate vinification of numerous base wines, followed by the art of assemblage according to the Traditional Method, characteristic of Champagne. The blend for this 173rd edition draws on 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, lending depth and personality to the final blend. The Brut-style dosage preserves energy and length in the glass.

Tasting notes

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

What it pairs 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 salinity and tension on the palate. Also excellent with asparagus with butter and sautéed garlic, it stands up well to white meats in sauce and preparations based on butter and citrus, highlighting the wine’s toasty notes and persistence.

When to serve it

This Champagne is ideal for convivial moments 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 through to serving throughout the meal.