Krug 2002, an Ode to Nature

Maison Krug has introduced its latest creation, Krug 2002, a vintage cellared for 14 years. This long maturation symbolizes the excellence of a vintage champagne aptly named “An Ode to Nature”. Just as Krug 1988 was released after the 1989 vintage, the release of Krug 2002 was preceded by that of the 2003 vintage. This inverted chronology reflects Krug’s singular approach to crafting its champagnes.

The vintage champagne – what Joseph Krug called a cuvée “according to circumstances”— expresses the music of a particular year and the distinctive character that defines it. The vintage champagne is always a unique creation. This is why the champagne house scrupulously respects the intrinsic qualities of each cuvée, in this case not hesitating to hold back the release of Krug 2002 to let it mature longer in the cellar.

Named “An Ode to Nature” by Krug Cellar Master Eric Lebel, the 2002 vintage is the fruit of a remarkably atypical and generous year, offering a wonderful balance between maturity and freshness. The 2002 harvest proved one of the warmest in Champagne, living up to the rich promise of beautifully ripened grapes. Nothing can be determined in advance, however, and only time can confirm how a vintage develops. Indeed, it has taken 14 years for this cuvée to express its full potential and essence.

Vintage champagnes are distinguished from Krug Grande Cuvée, the signature expression of the House created each year since its founding. Krug Grande Cuvée is composed of over 120 wines from more than ten different years, resulting in an extremely rich assemblage. Each Krug Grande Cuvée must be cellared for at least seven years. The champagne created from the 2002 harvest is the 158th edition of Krug Grande Cuvée.