1988 Krug Collection Vintage Champagne

Vintage Krug holds a special place among the landscape of prestige cuvée Champagne, over the years having produced some of the most mesmerising and memorable wines of the region. Appearing only when conditions allow, and never at the sacrifice of their number one wine Grande Cuvée, Vintage Krug is cherished and chased by collectors the world over. Knowing that Champagne displays a range of experiences as bottles evolve over time, Krug also holds back a small amount of these vintage wines to be released as they reach a new peak of expression, naming them Krug Collection. These impossibly rare releases of Krug Collection are kept in ideal conditions in the House’s cellars, and after regular tasting and appraisal are finally disgorged to reveal their new personality.

Krug Collection 1988 is part of Krug’s trilogy of three exceptional years (1988, 1989, 1990) with completely different conditions that resulted in Champagnes that are unique. Comprised of 50% Pinot Noir, 32% Chardonnay, 18% Pinot Meunier, Krug Collection 1988 was kept on lees for 29 years before finally receiving its cork in autumn 2017. 1988 is one of the most feted vintages in Champagne, and Krug decided to release the 1988 Collection after both 1989 and 1990 editions.

Other Reviews....
The 1988 Krug Collection, a 2017 disgorgement, offers an enticing bouquet of grilled walnut, baked bread and a touch of freshly baked gingerbread on the nose, displaying exquisite delineation and focus. A tang of bitterness on the entry refreshes the senses. This champagne is impressive in terms of depth and salinity. Vibrant and bright, it conveys a sense of completeness, so that you can’t help coming back for just one more sip. At its peak? Probably. Drink 2022 - 2035.
97 points
Neal Martin - Vinous (March 2022)

Gorgeous, exuding aromas and flavors of baked black currant, toasted hazelnut and coffee liqueur, along with subtle hints of elderflower, oyster shell and white truffle. The rich profile relies on soft, citrus peel acidity, as well as a tang of salinity for freshness and balance. The plush, creamy texture feels like cashmere on the palate. A beauty at any age. Disgorged fall 2017. Drink now through 2028.
96 points
Alison Napjus - Wine Spectator (Dec 2019)

When Krug 1988 was first released, a few bottles remained stored in the Krug cellars to see how they aged. The result today is a bouquet of incredible complexity, a veritable spice box full of seductive scents including sandalwood, mocha, and leather as well as a waxy note. The palate is perfectly balanced with both ample flesh and breathtaking freshness, and a wide-ranging flavour and textural profile having elements of quince, candied fruit, and spices. A floral freshness takes the upper hand on the long finish of this supremely subtle and light-footed Champagne. Such a beguiling mix of youthful energy with eminent ageworthiness. Readers who can find the 1988 should not hesitate, as it is stellar.
98 points
Yohan Castaing - Decanter (Sept 2020)