Krug Clos du Mesnil Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne 2006 (Gift Box)

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1843 by Johann‑Joseph Krug in Reims, Champagne Krug is celebrated for artisanal craftsmanship and exceptional vineyard expression. The Clos du Mesnil is a single-parcel blanc de blancs from the walled 1.84-hectare grand cru vineyard in Mesnil‑sur‑Oger, a monopole acquired in 1971. Only vintage releases from this site are aged for over a decade in Krug’s cellars before release  .

Producer and Wine Maker

Crafted under Cellar Master Eric Lebel and tasting committee including Olivier Krug, the 2006 Clos du Mesnil exemplifies Krug’s meticulous selection and blending philosophy. Harvested over three days from separate vineyard blocks, it embodies purity and precision  .

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The wine originates from the historic Clos du Mesnil vineyard in Le Mesnil‑sur‑Oger, protected by 17th-century walls. This Grand Cru Chardonnay site benefits from cool nights, warm days, and calcareous soils ideal for developing clarity, minerality, and structural tension  .

Vinification & Aging Methods

A 100 % Chardonnay blanc de blancs, the wine underwent primary fermentation followed by secondary bottle aging for over 12 years on lees in Krug’s Reims cellars. This prolonged élevage enriches its texture and complexity  .

Tasting Notes

Pale golden hue with delicate mousse. Aromas of buttered citrus, green pear, brioche, dried apricot, almond, and marzipan. The mouth is rich yet precise, showing pastry, lemon confit, candied ginger, saline minerality, and structural depth, finishing with elegant tension  .

Food & Wine Pairing

Excellent with shellfish—oysters, lobster, crab—saffron shellfish dishes, delicate white fish, creamy sauces, and mild-aged cheeses. Also pairs beautifully with poultry and light Asian cuisine ().

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 10–12 °C in fine Champagne flutes or universal crystal glasses to showcase finesse and aromatic depth. Chill properly and allow a brief rest after pouring.

Storage and Aging Potential

Already showing maturity, but with structured vibrancy and cellaring potential through 2045–2050 under stable, cool (9–12 °C), upright conditions  .

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Chardonnay (from a single Mesnil‑sur‑Oger vineyard)  .

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 12.5 % ABV  .

Scores

• 99 – James Suckling 

• 97 – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (William Kelley) 

• 97 – Vinous ()

• 97 – Wine Spectator 

• 98 – Falstaff ()

• 95 – Wine & Spirits Magazine