When it comes to the world of luxury champagne, few names are as synonymous with excellence as Krug. Known for producing some of the finest champagnes in the world, Krug’s offerings consistently stand at the pinnacle of quality, luxury, and craftsmanship. One of their most iconic and highly sought-after bottles is the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006, a champagne that epitomizes everything that makes Krug so special.
In this article, we’ll delve into what makes the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 a masterpiece, exploring its unique characteristics, the history behind its creation, and why it has earned its place as one of the most prestigious champagnes in the world.
The Legacy of Krug Champagne
Krug has a long and storied history in the world of champagne. Founded in 1843 by Joseph Krug, the house has always been committed to producing the highest quality champagne, using only the finest grapes and traditional winemaking methods. Krug is particularly renowned for its dedication to blending and crafting champagnes with depth, complexity, and individuality.
What sets Krug apart from many other champagne houses is its philosophy of producing only prestige cuvées, with each bottle offering a unique expression of the champagne’s terroir. The house’s meticulous approach to blending is a key reason why Krug champagnes, such as the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006, continue to receive accolades from wine connoisseurs and collectors around the globe.
Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 A Single-Vineyard Champagne
One of the most distinctive aspects of the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 is that it comes from a single vineyard, the Clos du Mesnil, located in the heart of the Champagne region. This vineyard is one of the few single-vineyard plots in the world of champagne, making it a rare and coveted source of grapes.
The Clos du Mesnil vineyard has a unique history. It is situated in the village of Mesnil-sur-Oger, a Grand Cru vineyard recognized for its exceptional terroir. The vineyard itself is walled, which is where the “Clos” in the name comes from, signifying a traditional walled vineyard. This vineyard is dedicated exclusively to Chardonnay, a grape known for its elegance, freshness, and ability to age beautifully.
The Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 is a vintage champagne, meaning that the grapes used to produce it come from a single harvest. In this case, the 2006 vintage stands out for its outstanding quality, with ideal weather conditions that allowed the grapes to ripen perfectly and produce a champagne of exceptional character.
The Flavor Profile of Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006
The Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 is a remarkable champagne with an intricate flavor profile that showcases the finesse of Chardonnay. Its complexity comes from a combination of factors, including the unique terroir of the Clos du Mesnil vineyard, the craftsmanship of the Krug house, and the aging process that imparts layers of flavor and depth.
On the nose, the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 opens with vibrant aromas of citrus fruit, including lemon and orange zest, which are balanced by subtle hints of almond, hazelnut, and a touch of honey. There’s also a faint note of toasted brioche, a hallmark of Krug’s meticulous aging process.
On the palate, the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 is lively and elegant, with a wonderful balance of freshness and richness. The citrus fruit notes are complemented by layers of orchard fruits, such as ripe apples and pears, along with a fine minerality that reflects the chalky soil of the Clos du Mesnil vineyard. The champagne has a creamy texture, with a refined mousse and a long, persistent finish that lingers with a delicate hint of spice and toasted flavors.
The Aging Process and Why It Matters
One of the key factors that make the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 so exceptional is its aging process. Like all Krug champagnes, the Clos du Mesnil 2006 is aged for an extended period before being released, which allows the wine to develop greater depth, complexity, and elegance.
The Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 was aged for nearly 10 years before being released to the public, which is a longer period than most champagnes. This extended aging process allows the champagne to integrate its flavors, creating a harmonious and balanced profile. Additionally, the long aging imparts a level of sophistication and maturity to the wine, making it a champagne that will continue to evolve and improve with further cellaring.
Why Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 Is Highly Coveted
The Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 is a champagne that commands attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike. There are several reasons why this particular vintage is so highly sought after:
Rare and Limited Production
The Krug Clos du Mesnil is produced in limited quantities, and the 2006 vintage is no exception. Due to the single-vineyard nature of the champagne and the meticulous process involved in crafting it, only a small amount of Clos du Mesnil is produced each year. As a result, each vintage becomes a collector’s item, with demand often exceeding supply.
Exceptional Quality and Craftsmanship
Krug is known for its commitment to quality, and the Clos du Mesnil 2006 is a perfect example of the house’s craftsmanship. The wine is made with the finest Chardonnay grapes from one of the most prestigious vineyards in Champagne, and the long aging process ensures that it is a champagne of remarkable depth and complexity. For those who appreciate the artistry of winemaking, the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 offers a truly exceptional experience.
A Champagne That Ages Gracefully
Unlike many champagnes that are best enjoyed young, the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 is a wine that will continue to evolve and improve with age. This makes it an excellent choice for collectors looking for a wine that can be enjoyed now or stored for years to come. As the champagne matures, its flavors will develop even greater complexity, making it a perfect addition to any wine collection.
Pairing Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006
While the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 is stunning on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a wide range of foods. Its crisp acidity and elegant texture make it a versatile choice for food pairings, whether you’re enjoying it with seafood, poultry, or rich dishes.
- Oysters and Shellfish: The bright citrus and mineral notes of the champagne complement the briny, delicate flavors of oysters and shellfish.
- Lobster: The creamy texture and subtle richness of the champagne pair wonderfully with lobster, particularly when it is prepared with butter or in rich sauces.
- Foie Gras: The Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006’s balance of acidity and richness makes it an ideal pairing for foie gras, where the champagne’s acidity cuts through the richness of the dish.
For dessert, it pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit tarts or almond-based pastries, which highlight the champagne’s nutty and fruity flavors.
Conclusion A Champagne of Exceptional Craftsmanship
The Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 is more than just a champagne; it is a work of art. With its exceptional quality, unique terroir, and long aging process, it represents the pinnacle of what Krug is known for. Whether you are a seasoned champagne connoisseur or someone looking to indulge in a truly special bottle, the Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 offers a truly unforgettable experience. It is a champagne that speaks to the craftsmanship, dedication, and passion that define Krug, making it an essential addition to any serious collection.
