High Life

HIGH LIFE #14 Nov 2017 71 S ince 1843, the House of Krug has gone beyond all known boundaries to uphold the superior distinction of its champagnes. Each Krug Vintage expresses the character of a particular year in time, capturing and enhancing the delicate blend of distinctive wines by a stay of over 10 years in the cellars. Every Krug Vintage is therefore singularly unique – and 2004 was a notably generous year. Krug 2004 reveals the vibrant story of the fruitful year, with bountiful citrus notes and a delicate, shining structure. Concluding the second trilogy of Vintage Champagnes in the history of the house following on from 2002 and 2003, 2004 exudes a fresh elegance after 12 years spent gaining harmony, expression and finesse. As with all Krug champagnes, it will continue to enrich with time. An intriguing dialogue between shining Chardonnays and the backbone of Pinot Noir combined with the vivacity, tension and citrus notes of Meunier, the light, golden blend promises the drinker a radiant freshness with each sip. Onthenose, anexpressivebouquetofginger, candiedcitrus and quince evokes lemon meringue tart, plum and mirabelle. On the palate, a melange of light brioche and honey notes gives way to a garden of fresh oranges, lemons and mandarins. Krug 2004’s beautiful freshness is paralleled only by delectablefoodpairingsthatenhancethedrinkingexperience. Sea urchin, salmon tartare or caviar promises a spectacular collaboration with the distinction of the champagne, as does delicate white fish in lemon sauce or olive oil. Likewise, a pairing with sole meunière or Thai cuisine incorporating ginger and lemongrass provides a perfect harmony. For dessert, fresh goat’s cheese and candied citrus bring out the champagne’s unique freshness, while a lemon meringue tart makes for a truly exceptional conclusion to a pairing experience. Music, a powerful and universal communication platform, is the House of Krug’s selected approach to creating an emotional connection beyond the physical pleasures of sipping champagne. For the House of Krug, music is the most natural vehicle to reinforce the tasting experience and offer an unforgettable journey. Inspirational British singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Lianne La Havas has been chosen as the designated spokesperson to present her musical interpretations of Krug 2004. To accompany the tastings of the newly launched Vintage, La Havas has curated a playlist of six pieces of music, each expressing the emotions she felt while savoring the champagne.