A Symphony for the Palate: The 2011 Krug Creations

“Every sip of Krug is like a symphony for the senses: each vintage strikes its own unique chords, yet always within the bounds of elegance”. With these lyrical words, Manuel Reman, president of Krug, introduced the Italian debut of Les Créations de 2011.

The grand unveiling took place at the exquisite Le Cattedrali Relais by Laqua Collection, under the masterful guidance of celebrated chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo, a top Krug Ambassade.

The Heritage of Joseph Krug

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Le Cattedrali’s tasting room set up for Krug’s Les Créations de 2011.

Nestled in the scenic Monferrato region, this newly opened luxurious resort and fine dining destination embodies true opulence, perfectly mirroring the sophistication of Krug champagne. Here, diners experience unparalleled pairings that elevate their culinary journey to new heights. Seated around an imperial table surrounded by shelves brimming with vinyl records, the guests listened as Reman shared the story of Joseph Krug, a true visionary.

Joseph was firmly convinced that a great winery should produce only exceptional cuvées. This belief led to the creation of Champagne Number 1, now known as Krug Grande Cuvée, with a new edition crafted each year, regardless of climatic conditions.

Revolutionary Principles

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Venison loin with foie gras sauce and Belgian endive with red berries, paired with Krug 2000.

He established principles that were revolutionary at the time: the first was individuality. He distinguished between plots, creating smaller parcels based on the diversity of the vines, their orientation, or their age. This approach allowed him to obtain a wide range of different champagne expressions. When these expressions consistently impressed him during tastings, he set them aside for future vintages».

Reman explained further: «The principle of individuality is epitomized by the wall of 400 wines in the tasting room at the family estate in Reims. Each liquid, like a musical note, expresses its unique essence». By composing a symphony of flavors, Joseph created his first harmony, giving birth to the magic of blending. He decided to combine grapes from different regions and various years to achieve the complexity and generosity that define the Maison’s champagnes.

Les Créations de 2011, the 167ème Édition

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Le Cattedrali Relais by Laqua Collection

Joseph Krug’s third principle was time. He allowed the wines to age in the cellar for seven years, making them easy to love, worth waiting for, and savoring with all the senses. Standing tall on three foundational principles, the illustrious Les Créations de 2011 has come to life.

The 167th Edition of Krug Grande Cuvée is a masterpiece crafted from the 2011 harvest. The vineyards of Mareuil-sur-Ay contribute their profound depth, enhanced by the robust Pinot Noirs from Ambonnay, Ay, and Bouzy, and elegantly mature reserve wines from Verzenay.

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Images courtesy of Le Cattedrali Relais