Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 is an extraordinary single-vineyard Blanc de Blancs Champagne that expresses the remarkable purity, elegance and individuality of one of Champagne's most celebrated Chardonnay terroirs.

Created exclusively from Chardonnay harvested in 2004 from a single 1.84-hectare walled vineyard in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, this prestigious cuvée embodies Maison Krug's uncompromising dedication to expressing the character of an exceptional vineyard through meticulous craftsmanship and prolonged cellar maturation.

The 18th Champagne produced from this remarkable Clos, Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 represents a particularly refined expression of its terroir, combining exceptional freshness, crystalline precision, vibrant acidity and remarkable aromatic depth.

After at least 12 years of patient maturation in Krug's cellars, the Champagne reveals a captivating golden colour and a beautifully layered bouquet of citrus, barley sugar, dried fruits and delicate pastry aromas. Its generous palate unfolds through notes of madeleine cake, brioche, tarte tatin, lemon meringue, bitter orange and spice, culminating in an exceptionally long and precise finish marked by candied ginger.

Celebrated for its striking grace, remarkable balance and exceptional purity, Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 is an outstanding expression of single-vineyard Chardonnay and one of the most distinguished creations in the Maison's prestigious collection.

Krug Clos du Mesnil represents a remarkable chapter in Champagne history, challenging the traditional belief that the region's greatest wines must be created by blending grapes from multiple vineyards and villages.

Situated in the heart of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, the Clos du Mesnil vineyard was originally acquired by Maison Krug to provide an exceptional and reliable source of Chardonnay for its prestigious Krug Grande Cuvée.

Over successive harvests, however, the vineyard revealed an extraordinary individuality that inspired the House to reconsider its potential.

In 1979, brothers Rémi and Henri Krug recognised that the harvest had produced Chardonnay of such exceptional character that it deserved to be presented as a Champagne entirely on its own.

The resulting creation, Krug Clos du Mesnil 1979, was first presented in 1986, introducing a revolutionary interpretation of Champagne through the expression of one single plot, one grape variety and one harvest.

Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 is the 18th Champagne produced from this unique vineyard, continuing a tradition of creating exceptional single-plot Champagnes only when the harvest fully expresses the remarkable character of the Clos.

Its creation reflects the pioneering philosophy of Joseph Krug, who believed that exceptional Champagne begins with recognising and respecting the individual character of every vineyard plot.

At the heart of this extraordinary Champagne lies Clos du Mesnil, a historic 1.84-hectare vineyard situated in the centre of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, one of the most prestigious Chardonnay Grand Cru villages in Champagne's Côte des Blancs.

Overlooked by the village church, the vineyard has been enclosed by protective stone walls since 1698, preserving a distinctive and remarkably intimate environment for the cultivation of Chardonnay.

The Clos is celebrated for its exceptional ability to express the purity, precision and mineral character associated with the finest Chardonnay vineyards of the Côte des Blancs.

Its enclosed position and distinctive terroir contribute to grapes of remarkable concentration and balance, providing the foundation for Champagnes of exceptional depth and longevity.

Maison Krug's approach begins with observing the individual character of the plot throughout the growing season, including meticulous berry tasting before harvest and careful selection of fruit.

Rather than blending the vineyard's expression with grapes from other sites, Krug Clos du Mesnil captures the unique personality of this single walled vineyard and the conditions of one exceptional year.

The result is a remarkable expression of terroir, demonstrating how a single vineyard can produce a Champagne of extraordinary complexity, individuality and elegance.

The 2004 Champagne growing season was characterised by a prolonged period of cool weather followed by exceptionally favourable conditions during the final stages of grape maturation.

Following a crisp winter, the growing season began slowly as unusually cool spring temperatures persisted across Champagne.

Gentle warmth arrived in May, encouraging the development of the vines, while the late summer brought the sunshine necessary for the grapes to achieve excellent maturity.

Beautiful weather from mid-September proved particularly important, allowing the Chardonnay at Clos du Mesnil to ripen under exceptional conditions following the climatic extremes and limited yields experienced in 2003.

The Clos du Mesnil harvest took place between 24 and 26 September 2004, producing Chardonnay grapes of outstanding character, maturity and quality.

Maison Krug recognised the rare beauty of the harvest and the exceptional opportunity it presented to reveal the full potential of this historic walled vineyard.

The resulting Champagne displays remarkable purity, freshness, tension and balance, reflecting the distinctive conditions of the 2004 harvest and the precision of Krug's traditional craftsmanship.

Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 is crafted entirely from Chardonnay grown within the Clos du Mesnil vineyard, creating an exceptionally pure expression of a single Champagne terroir.

Chardonnay — 100%: Selected exclusively from the historic walled vineyard in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, contributing elegance, precision, freshness and the exceptional mineral tension associated with the finest Blanc de Blancs Champagnes.

Unlike conventional prestige cuvées that combine wines from different vineyard sites, Krug Clos du Mesnil is created to preserve the individuality of one specific plot and one exceptional harvest.

The Maison follows a meticulous approach to fruit selection, carefully evaluating the grapes throughout the growing season before determining whether the vintage possesses the qualities required to produce a Clos du Mesnil Champagne.

Only in exceptional years does the vineyard's Chardonnay become a standalone cuvée, demonstrating Krug's dedication to producing Champagne of uncompromising individuality and character.

For the 2004 vintage, the result is a Champagne distinguished by purity, structural precision and extraordinary aromatic complexity, combining generous maturity with remarkable freshness and elegance.

Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 underwent at least 12 years of patient maturation in Maison Krug's cellars, allowing the wine to develop exceptional aromatic complexity, texture and balance.

Extended cellar ageing plays a fundamental role in the expression of Krug Champagnes, providing the time required for their distinctive characteristics to develop progressively.

For Clos du Mesnil 2004, this prolonged maturation has contributed to a remarkable combination of generous richness, finely integrated acidity, expressive pastry aromas and extraordinary mineral precision.

Krug's vintage-specific records document a 2004 bottle receiving its final cork in autumn 2016, following regular tasting and evaluation by the Maison's winemaking team.

Each bottle is individually numbered and carries a six-digit Krug iD, allowing its individual history and detailed information to be explored through the Maison's official records.

Maison Krug emphasises that its Champagnes continue to develop additional complexity and character through the passage of time, making Clos du Mesnil 2004 a particularly compelling expression of patient cellar maturation and exceptional Chardonnay craftsmanship.

Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 was produced in exceptionally limited quantities, reflecting the small size of the vineyard and the Maison's commitment to selecting only fruit of outstanding quality.

The 2004 harvest yielded just 12,548 standard bottles and 500 magnums, all individually numbered.

This limited production underscores the exceptional nature of a Champagne created entirely from a single 1.84-hectare vineyard.

The 2004 release also represents the 18th expression of Clos du Mesnil, continuing a remarkable tradition that began with the legendary 1979 harvest.

Its combination of exceptional provenance, historic terroir, prolonged maturation and distinguished critical acclaim gives Clos du Mesnil 2004 particular significance within the world of fine Champagne collecting.

Appearance: A vibrant, luminous golden colour reminiscent of ripe wheat, reflecting the wine's exceptional maturity and beautifully developed character.

Nose: Delicate and remarkably expressive, revealing citrus fruits, barley sugar and dried fruits. Additional aromas described in Krug's original vintage technical notes include toffee apple, caramel, ripe citrus and lightly toasted nuts, contributing further depth and complexity.

Palate: Generous, rounded and beautifully intense, opening with refined flavours of madeleine cake and brioche. Layers of delicate pastry, tarte tatin, lemon meringue and bitter orange develop progressively, accompanied by subtle spice and impressive freshness.

Texture: Harmonious, refined and beautifully structured, combining generous richness with remarkable purity, precise acidity and exceptional balance.

Finish: Exceptionally long and elegant, with vibrant tension and expressive notes of candied ginger. Citrus freshness and subtle spice contribute to the Champagne's remarkable persistence.

Overall Character: A sophisticated and exceptionally pure Blanc de Blancs Champagne distinguished by crystalline precision, aromatic generosity, striking elegance and remarkable length.

Wine Spectator — 97/100

Wine Spectator awarded Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 an outstanding 97 points, recognising the Champagne's vibrant structure, beautifully defined acidity and remarkable mineral precision.

The review highlights the wine's sophisticated aromatic complexity, including lime blossom, saffron, incense, kumquat, crystallised honey and toasted nuances.

Its refined texture and exceptional persistence contribute to an impressive expression of Chardonnay, combining structural intensity with extraordinary elegance.

This distinguished recognition reinforces the 2004 vintage's reputation as an outstanding example of single-vineyard Blanc de Blancs Champagne.

Serving Temperature: Maison Krug recommends serving its Champagnes between 9°C and 12°C, allowing the wine's complex aromas and flavours to express themselves fully.

Glassware: The Joseph glass, developed by Krug in collaboration with renowned crystalware maker Riedel in 2011, was designed to reveal the full aromatic expression of Krug Champagne.

Alternative Glassware: Krug recommends a white Burgundy wine glass rather than a narrow Champagne flute when its specially designed glassware is unavailable, as a flute may restrict aromatic expression.

Storage Temperature: Maison Krug recommends storing its Champagnes at approximately the same temperature at which they are served, between 9°C and 12°C.

Storage Conditions: Maintain a stable, cool environment protected from direct light, excessive vibration and abrupt temperature fluctuations.

Cellaring Potential: Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 is capable of developing additional aromatic complexity and refinement through further maturation under suitable cellar conditions.

Maison Krug specifically recommends pairing Clos du Mesnil 2004 with refined fish, shellfish and delicately flavoured meat dishes that complement the Champagne's freshness, complexity and exceptional mineral tension.

• Fillet of Flounder with Saffron Sauce: A delicate fish preparation combining refined texture with the aromatic complexity of saffron.
• Zander with Beurre Blanc: A classic preparation in which the richness of butter sauce contrasts beautifully with the Champagne's lively acidity.
• Seared Scallops: The natural sweetness and delicate texture of scallops complement the wine's generous palate and citrus freshness.
• Tuna Carpaccio: A refined, delicate preparation allowing the Champagne's purity, mineral precision and layered aromas to remain prominent.
• Blanquette de Veau: A traditional French veal preparation whose delicate, creamy character harmonises with the Champagne's rich texture and elegant acidity.

These official recommendations demonstrate the remarkable gastronomic versatility of this exceptional single-vineyard Chardonnay Champagne.

• Premium Seafood: Butter-poached lobster, langoustines, seared Hokkaido scallops and delicately prepared turbot.
• Caviar: Oscietra caviar served with traditional blinis and crème fraîche, allowing the Champagne's freshness and mineral structure to complement the savoury flavours.
• Fine Poultry: Roast guinea fowl or delicately prepared chicken with subtle cream or citrus-based sauces.
• Elegant Fish Preparations: Dover sole meunière, steamed sea bass, poached halibut and other refined white-fish dishes.
• Wild Mushrooms: Porcini risotto, delicate mushroom ravioli and lightly truffled cream sauces.
• Artisanal Cheeses: Aged Comté, fine Gruyère and delicately flavoured cheeses with elegant nutty characteristics.

The Champagne's combination of mineral precision, refreshing acidity, complex pastry aromas and remarkable depth makes it particularly suited to sophisticated fine-dining cuisine.

• Producer: Maison Krug
• Cuvée: Krug Clos du Mesnil
• Vintage: 2004
• Classification: Vintage Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Region: Côte des Blancs, Champagne, France
• Village: Le Mesnil-sur-Oger
• Vineyard: Clos du Mesnil
• Vineyard Classification: Grand Cru
• Vineyard Size: 1.84 hectares / 4.5 acres
• Historic Vineyard Walls: Dating to 1698
• Wine Colour: White
• Grape Variety: Chardonnay
• Grape Composition: 100% Chardonnay
• Vineyard Selection: Single vineyard / single plot
• Harvest Dates: 24–26 September 2004
• Cellar Maturation: At least 12 years
• Vintage Release Number: 18th Clos du Mesnil Champagne
• First Clos du Mesnil Vintage: 1979
• Original Production: 12,548 bottles and 500 magnums
• Bottle Format: 750ml / 75cl
• Identification: Individually numbered; six-digit Krug iD
• Professional Rating: 97/100 — Wine Spectator
• Recommended Serving Temperature: 9–12°C
• Ageing Potential: Suitable for further cellaring
• Allergen Information: Contains sulphites

Founded in 1843 by Joseph Krug, Maison Krug is one of Champagne's most prestigious historic Houses, internationally renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, uncompromising quality and distinctive philosophy of winemaking.

Joseph Krug believed that great Champagne should be created through a profound understanding of the individuality of every vineyard plot, allowing the House to craft wines of extraordinary character and consistency.

The Maison's philosophy is founded on the meticulous selection of exceptional grapes, individual vinification of wines, patient cellar maturation and the celebration of the unique contribution of each vineyard.

Krug Clos du Mesnil represents a particularly remarkable expression of this philosophy, demonstrating that the distinctive personality of a single vineyard can give rise to a Champagne of exceptional purity, complexity and elegance.

Through its dedication to heritage, innovation and the finest expressions of terroir, Maison Krug continues to stand among the world's most distinguished producers of prestige Champagne.

Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 is an extraordinary demonstration of the elegance, purity and complexity that can be achieved through the exceptional expression of a single Chardonnay vineyard.

We particularly appreciate the wine's remarkable balance between aromatic generosity and structural precision, where delicate citrus, dried fruits, caramelised orchard fruit and refined pastry notes unfold over an exceptionally fresh and beautifully composed palate.

Its long, expressive finish, distinguished by candied ginger, mineral tension and vibrant acidity, provides an extraordinary sense of refinement and persistence.

The historic 1.84-hectare Clos du Mesnil vineyard, exceptionally limited production and at least 12 years of patient cellar maturation contribute to the exceptional individuality of this remarkable vintage.

With outstanding critical acclaim and an extraordinary heritage, Clos du Mesnil 2004 represents a magnificent choice for serious Champagne collectors, connoisseurs and exceptional gastronomic experiences.

A rare and profoundly elegant creation from one of Champagne's most prestigious Houses, Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 embodies the heritage, craftsmanship and exceptional taste celebrated by the Barrels & Beyond PH Fine Wine Collection.