Krug Vintage 1981 Brut - Champagne

Krug Vintage Brut 1981 - The Elegance of Time

Introducing Maison Krug and the Vintage Cuvée

Founded in 1843, Maison Krug is one of the most prestigious and respected Champagne houses. It distinguishes itself through a unique philosophy based on the character and individuality of each wine. Krug Vintage is the expression of a single exceptional year, selected for its harmony and aging potential. It embodies the story of that year through the incomparable lens of Krug.

The Importance of the 1981 Vintage

The 1981 vintage in Champagne was a year of finesse and elegance. The climatic conditions allowed for perfectly ripe grapes, but above all, a beautiful acidity, guaranteeing phenomenal aging potential. This vintage produced a particularly refined and elegant Krug, considered by many critics to be one of the House's greatest successes of the 1980s.

Krug Vintage: An Inimitable Style

Krug Vintage is crafted from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes sourced from meticulously selected parcels. Vinification takes place in small oak barrels, and aging extends over many years in the cellar. The 1981 vintage, after more than forty years, is now at its peak, offering the power and complexity of a great, mature wine while retaining remarkable freshness.

Details on the 1981 Vintage and Tasting Notes

The Krug Vintage 1981 Champagne is revealed today as a wine of great nobility:

• Appearance: Deep golden yellow, with fine residual bubbles.
• Nose: Complex and tertiary, opening with aromas of dried fruit, toasted nuts, butterscotch, honey, mushrooms, curry and notes of blond tobacco.
• Palate: Ample, rich, and exceptionally deep. The body is powerful, supported by a still-present acidity and lingering flavors of dried fruit, gingerbread, and minerality. The finish is very long and flavorful.
• Peak: The wine is at its tertiary maturity peak and can still be kept for several years.

Bottle Condition: Witness to Time

This bottle of Krug Vintage 1981, despite its age, is in very good overall condition:

• Format: 75 cl.
• Level & Runs: Perfect level and color; no trace of runs.
• Label: Slightly worn
• Headpiece: Partially corroded (natural wear and tear of time).
• Overall condition: Very good state of preservation.

Food & Wine Pairings and Tasting Tips

Serve chilled, between 10 and 12°C, in large wine glasses (avoid traditional flutes) to fully appreciate its complexity. A mature Krug is a gastronomic wine. It pairs perfectly with:

• Truffle dishes (risotto, pasta).
• Game birds (pheasant, woodcock) or poultry in a creamy sauce.
• Foie gras or caviar.
• Mature cheeses (Comté, aged parmesan).