Krug Clos du Mesnil, a very rare Champagne, showcases the unique character of a single plot of Chardonnay, harvested in a single year. This 1.84-hectare (4.5-acre) vineyard, overlooked by the village church, has been protected by walls since 1698. The vineyard is located in the heart of Mesnil-sur-Oger, one of the most iconic villages for Chardonnay in the Champagne region.

THE VINTAGE

The year 2006 was considered a hot one in Champagne, with extreme highs and 23 days recorded over 30°C. It was a capricious climate that went from dry periods to intense rainfall - in August, the equivalent of 2 months of rain fell in only 2 weeks. Fortunately, the sun returned to complete the ripening period, shining on a beautiful harvest. The grapes showed balance similar to that of 2002 and 1989, which were also beautiful and generous years. The harvest of the Clos du Mesnil took place between 14 and 16 September 2006 and afforded beautifully mature grapes.

TASTING NOTES

On the eye: At first sight, vibrant luminosity and an intense golden color redolent of ripe wheat.

On the nose: Delicate aromas of citrus, barley sugar and dried fruits with balance and freshness.

On the palate: Generous and round with beautiful intensity. Initial hints of madeleine cake and brioche give way to notes of pastry, tarte tatin, lemon meringue, bitter orange and a little spice. The finish is long, with great tension and notes of candied ginger.

PAIRING

Krug Clos du Mesnil 2006 pairs beautifully with fish or shellfish dishes such as fillet of flounder in a saffron sauce, zander with beurre blanc, seared scallops or tuna carpaccio. It may also be enjoyed with delicately flavoured meat dishes such as blanquette de veau.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Varietals: 100% Chardonnay

Appellation: A single walled plot of vines (clos in French) in the village of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger

Aging: Over 12 years in the cellars