Krug - Champagne brut vintage 1964 MAGNUM 1500ml

Report: Krug Collection - Champagne Brut Vintage 1964 (Magnum 1,5l)

1st wine & origin:

• Name: Krug Collection - Brut Vintage

• Vintage: 1964

• Format: Magnum (1.5 litres)

• House: Krug, Reims, Champagne, France

• Style: Vintage Brut Champagne (exclusively grapes from the 1964 vintage)

2. 1964 vintage:

• Champagne context: 1964 is considered one of the most legendary vintages of the 20th century in Champagne. A warm summer with ideal ripeness, followed by an early harvest under perfect conditions.

• Krug characteristics:Krug vintages are known for their power, complexity, depth and exceptional longevity. The 1964 epitomises these characteristics in particular. It is one of the most celebrated vintages of the house.

3. sensory profile (expectations based on tasting notes and reputation):

• Colour: Deep gold with amber reflections, typical of mature Krug champagnes.

• Nose: Extremely complex and intense. Dominant are tertiary aromasof maturation: walnut, hazelnut, marzipan, caramel, honeycomb, dried apricots/figs, citrus jam, tobacco, fine earthy notes (truffle, mushroom) and a characteristic "Krugness" (brioche-like, yeasty). The original fruit (ripe citrus, prune) still resonates.

• Palate: Full-bodied, powerful and yet incredibly elegant. The lively acidity, a Krug trademark, has become integrated and creamyafter 60 years, but retains its structure. The maturity is evident in the flavours of burnt sugar, nuts, dried fruit, spiced bread and a mineral depth. Long, multi-layered finish that lingers for minutes. The texture is silky and full-bodied.

• Overall impression:A champagne of monumental complexity and depth. It represents the essence of ageing - a harmonious interplay of original power and the wonderful flavours that only time in the cellar can give. It is no longer a fruity, fresh champagne, but a philosophical wine for connoisseurs.

4. significance & rarity:

• Ultimate rarity: a Krug Vintage 1964 is already extremely rare and sought after in the standard bottle. A magnum in good condition is an absolute rarity and a jewel for collectors and connoisseurs.

• Investment value: Such bottles regularly realise five-figure sums at renowned auctions (often €10,000 and more, depending on condition and provenance).

5 Serving recommendations:

• Temperature: Cool cellar (approx. 10-12°C). No ice-cold temperature, as this would numb the complex flavours.

• Glass: Large, tulip-shaped champagne glass or white wine glass to optimally unfold the complex nose.

• Accompaniment: Best enjoyed neatas a contemplation wine to appreciate every nuance. Possibly with very subtle, noble accompaniments such as fresh white truffles (grated), light wild fowl pâtés or simply unsalted nuts (walnut, cashew).

• To open: Be careful,the cork is extremely fragile. Slowly and carefully remove the cage and twist the cork with gentle, controlled pressure. A corkscrew should be at hand. A sieve can be useful.

6 Condition & risks:

• Provenance is everything! The value and drinkability of a wine depend crucially on its perfect, uninterrupted storage (constantly cool, dark, moist, horizontal). Light or heat damage will destroy the wine.

• Fill level:The fill level (fill height) should be high at the neck ("into neck" - i.n.) A low fill level means considerable oxygen contact and loss of quality.

• Cork: The main risk is a brittle cork or leakage, which can lead to oxidation (Madeiraisation) or cork taint.

• Tasting risk:Even when perfectly stored, a bottle can be "tired" due to its age. The acidity can diminish and the wine can become flat. This is part of the appeal (and risk) of savouring such antiques.

Conclusion:

The Krug Collection Brut Vintage 1964 Magnum is a legendary rarityand one of the greatest champagnes ever produced. It offers a unique sensory experience, characterised by the brilliance of the 1964 vintage, the unmistakable Krug philosophy and six decades of perfect ageing. The magnum format promises potentially even more freshness and harmony than a standard bottle.

Its enjoyment is a historic event that demands deep respect for time, the craftsmanship of Krug and ideal storage conditions. It is not so much a drink as a liquid work of art and a piece of winegrowing history- and its value and significance are accordingly high. Buying or tasting such a bottle requires expertise and confidence in its provenance.