May 21, 2024
A Tale of Two Vineyards: Krug Clos du Mesnil vs. Krug Clos d'Ambonnay
In the hallowed halls of Champagne, where the confluence of nature and craftsmanship produces extraordinary wines, the House of Krug stands unparalleled. Among its stellar lineup, two single-vineyard champagnes—Krug Clos du Mesnil and Krug Clos d'Ambonnay—shine as exemplars of terroir and meticulous winemaking. Each of these rare champagnes offers a distinct narrative, shaped by their unique origins and the grape varieties that define them.
The Heritage of Krug
Understanding the essence of Krug requires a look at its storied heritage. Founded in 1843 by Joseph Krug, the house has consistently pursued a philosophy of producing the finest champagnes each year, irrespective of vintage variations. This commitment to excellence and the art of blending is vividly displayed in their single-vineyard champagnes, which capture the soul of their respective terroirs.
Photo: Krug Clos du Mesnil
Krug Clos du Mesnil: Celebrating Chardonnay
The Vineyard
Krug Clos du Mesnil is a tribute to the Chardonnay grape, sourced exclusively from the Clos du Mesnil vineyard in Mesnil-sur-Oger. This small, walled vineyard, encompassing just 1.84 hectares, is located in the Côte des Blancs, a region famed for its chalky soils and ideal microclimate for Chardonnay. The vineyard's unique conditions produce grapes of exceptional purity and finesse.
The Winemaking Journey
The creation of Krug Clos du Mesnil starts with painstaking care in the vineyard. The vines are nurtured to ensure that only the highest quality grapes are harvested. Fermentation occurs in small oak barrels, a method that enhances the wine's complexity and depth. The champagne then undergoes over a decade of aging in Krug’s cellars, allowing it to develop its refined character.
Tasting Notes
Krug Clos du Mesnil is known for its remarkable clarity and precision. The nose reveals a bouquet of fresh citrus, white flowers, and a hint of toast. On the palate, it is vibrant and focused, with flavours of lemon, apple, and a distinctive minerality reflective of the chalky terroir. The finish is long and elegant, epitomizing the wine’s balance and purity.
Photo: Krug Clos D'Ambonnay, source: Rare Rine Invest
Krug Clos d'Ambonnay: Honouring Pinot Noir
The Vineyard
In stark contrast, Krug Clos d'Ambonnay is a homage to Pinot Noir. This exclusive champagne hails from a 0.68-hectare vineyard in the village of Ambonnay, one of the most esteemed Grand Cru sites in the Montagne de Reims. The vineyard’s south-eastern exposure and deep chalk soils provide an optimal environment for cultivating Pinot Noir of profound character and intensity.
The Winemaking Process
The process of crafting Krug Clos d'Ambonnay mirrors the meticulous approach used for Clos du Mesnil. The hand-picked Pinot Noir grapes are fermented in small oak barrels, preserving their unique qualities while adding complexity. The wine is then aged for an extended period in Krug’s cellars, developing its rich and complex profile.
Tasting Notes
Krug Clos d'Ambonnay is celebrated for its opulence and depth. The nose is rich with aromas of red berries, plum, and spice, complemented by nuances of brioche and almonds. On the palate, it is full-bodied and expansive, offering a medley of cherry, raspberry, and subtle smokiness. The finish is long and powerful, yet retains a refined elegance.
A Comparative Exploration
Krug Clos du Mesnil and Krug Clos d'Ambonnay offer a fascinating study in contrasts, each reflecting the unique terroir of their respective vineyards and the distinctive characteristics of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Terroir and Influence
The chalky soils of Clos du Mesnil impart a crisp, mineral quality to the Chardonnay, resulting in a champagne that is precise and refined. Conversely, the rich terroir of Clos d'Ambonnay enhances the intensity and complexity of the Pinot Noir, creating a wine that is bold and full-bodied.
Grape Variety and Expression
Chardonnay, known for its elegance and finesse, shines in Clos du Mesnil, producing a wine that is bright and focused. Pinot Noir, celebrated for its depth and power, is showcased in Clos d'Ambonnay, resulting in a wine that is rich and robust.
Consistent Winemaking Philosophy
Despite their differences, the winemaking philosophy at Krug remains consistent. Both wines are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, from vineyard management to the use of small oak barrels and extended ageing. This approach ensures that each wine, while distinct, embodies Krug’s hallmark qualities of complexity, balance, and depth.
The Exclusivity and Prestige
Both Krug Clos du Mesnil and Krug Clos d'Ambonnay are produced in limited quantities, making them some of the most coveted champagnes globally. Each bottle represents the pinnacle of Krug’s craftsmanship and the unique expression of its vineyard’s terroir. These champagnes are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs, often regarded as the ultimate expressions of luxury and sophistication.