Champagne Krug Vintage Brut (1.5 Liter Magnum) 1995

"This is the first vintage Krug released since the 1990, so the anticipation for it has been great, partly to see what magic Krug worked on a very good vintage in Champagne and partly to see what could possibly follow the ethereal 1990. There is a special sentimental value attached to this particular cuvée for Krug lovers, as well, because it represents the last vintage wine produced by three generations of the Krug family. There was an uproar when it was announced in 1999 that LVMH would purchase Krug, but many forget that Krug has not been family owned for 30 years, a period that has seen some of the greatest wines ever from the house. This is a great testimony to the strength of the Krug vision and the impact of the Krug style, which is often considered robust and powerful. That makes the 1995 Vintage Krug all the more exciting to sample because it so clearly shows the influence of the vintage itself, and is not just a vehicle for an imposed style. In appearance, it is pale gold with very fine bubbles. The nose is tenacious, but a little lighter than the classic Krug style (a quality I find entrancing). The bouquet exudes spicebox aromas of ginger, citrus peel and a bit of honey, but also carries a trace of bright minerality. A mineral aspect is even more evident on the palate, but so is the voluptuous quality of the fruit with added notes of brioche and honey - real hallmarks of the '95 vintage. The experience continues with an achingly long finish"

99 Points

The Wine News

"A very youthful '95. Delicate. Intense aromas of ginger, citrus, candied berry and multigrain bread turn to honey, roasted almonds and graphite on the palate. It's all underscored by a precise structure and creamy texture. Its structure keeps it persistent through the long finish. A picture of precision and intensity. Drink now through 2025. 1,700 cases imported. "

98 Points

Wine Spectator

"A mature, honeyed nose shows how rich and open this beautiful wine is. It is rich and toasty, with layers of citrus and very ripe, almost honeyed, fruit. It is lively and fresh, with excellent structure. Ready to drink."

96 Points

Wine Enthusiast

"The 1995 Vintage provides a fascinating contrast to the 1996. This is a tightly wound, sinewy Champagne loaded with brioche, toasted oak, lemon rind, flowers and minerals. The mousse is extremely fine and the style decidedly more linear and fresh than the 1996. Though deceptively medium-bodied in style, the wine appears to be built for extended cellaring.. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025. "

95 Points

The Wine Advocate

"Light yellow. Rich and powerful, with leesy pear and white truffle aromas accented by gentle notes of white pepper and cinnamon. Extremely powerful Krug, with rich orchard fruit flavors, a velvety texture and warm, rich, inviting notes of brioche and creme brulee Finishes with intense pear and peach flavors and lingering notes of smoke, iodine and toffee. One of the most concentrated Champagnes I tried this year. "

95 Points

International Wine Cellar

"The deep golden color implies just how rich this wine will be. The 1995 vintage provided a baroque canvas of flavors that seems weightier and more robust than a classic Krug, but no less fascinating. The wine is downright huge, aggressive in its savory power, in its aching acidity and persistent minerality. Brusque and mouthcoating in its richness at 11 years of age, this will begin to mellow as it turns 15 or 20."

95 Points

Wine & Spirits