Getting any allocation of 2002 Krug has been very difficult. There has been a lot of hype around the 2002 Champagne vintage in general but Krug felt they had something truly special. They released the 2003 vintage many years ago but held back the 2002 and kept quiet.
For those who appreciate powerful and complex Champagnes, the 2002 Krug is a win. I had the opportunity to taste both the legendary 1996 vintage and the 2002, and the latter could almost be considered a long-lost twin. While the 1996 vintage has a head start in aging, the 2002 boasts a similar profile and characteristics. The hype around the 2002 vintage is well founded. It is a remarkable achievement in Champagne. It will eventually be known as the heir to the reputation of Krug’s 1996 vintage.
If you love aged Champagnes, this wine will continue to improve over the next decade and beyond becoming a highlight in your cellar for years to come. The 1996 vintage is currently selling for $450 or more for well-stored bottles of good provenance, and the 2002 vintage is well worth the investment.
Krug 1996
Rich gold color a very fine bead.
Powerful and clear nose of kumquat, toasted orange zest, toasted almond, lemons curd, flowers, fuji apple, cardamom, brioche. Chalky leaning into crushed sea shell minerality. Acidity is still youthful and refreshing with a long finish that continues for well over a minute.
Krug 2002
Gold with fine bead.
Lemon hazel, orange, kumquat, marzipan, baking spices, sauteed chanterelles, apple, fresh croissant, firm chalky minerality and forever finish. Still very tightly structured. This will be a joy to watch over the years.
Order 2002 Krug Here