Compared to Krug's 160th edition, the bright golden-yellow colored NV Grande Cuvée 166ème Édition (ID117010) is still a baby that shows the chalky and fruity features of a young white Burgundy intermixed with notes of Schwarzwälder Kirsch (dark cherries with black chocolate) and floral (ammonia) flavors on the pure, fresh and elegant yet intense and still yeasty brioche nose with its ripe apple aromas and refreshingly bright (lemon juice) overtones. Round, wide and very elegant yet also straight and tense on the palate, this 2010-dominated cuvée is very delicate, fresh and chalky but also dense and lush in its vinous texture. The finish is well-structured, fresh and persistent, indicating great complexity and vibrancy. However, I would wait at least another three years, during which time the 166th edition will gain even more finesse and quiet. The 166ème Édition is composed of 140 wines from 13 different harvests between 1998 and 2010, and it's a blend of 45% Pinot Noir with 39% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Meunier, the latter of which provides the vivacity that the Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs surprisingly didn't have in 2010, a vintage that was marked by its "tumultuous climate," as Eric Lebel writes. Tasted in New York in November 2018.
ID 217017. A blend of 140 wines.
Savoury, rather Puligny-like nose. Very, very fresh, real zest on the palate which seems more youthful than the nose. Very punchy and fresh. Seems more youthful than the 167th Edition.
Composed around the 2010 harvest, this edition of Krug's Grande Cuvée has a pale lemon colour in the glass. The nose is cool but expressive, with lemon peel, fresh bread, lime blossom and petrichor. The palate has more of the trademark weight that you might expect from this house, with creamy, biscuity power, yet there is precision and elegance, with waves of fresh citrus and red apple at the core. Bright in acidity and with a delicate but persistent mousse, this mineral and fine offering has great potential to age, whereas the preceeding 165è edition is more immediate. The intensity builds on the long finish, as the fruit core unfurls and reveals more of the toasty, buttery biscuit notes of lees and reserve wines. All refinement and class, this is a subtle yet brilliant Grande Cuvée.
Complexity from the very outset with praline, honey, grilled-hazelnut and nougat aromas leading to a fresh background of peaches, lemons and grapefruit. Chardonnay leads on the nose for now. The palate has finesse, fleshy appeal and terrific focus. Long, powerful and seamless. A strong edition of Grande Cuvée. Drink or hold.
