99pts James Suckling

This is a fabulous edition of Clos du Mesnil. The pure Chardonnay is magnificent with density and agility at the same time. Apple and mineral notes with cream and biscuit character. Citrus and hints of mirabelle. Chalky, yet stony at the same time. Layered, yet linear and really long. But remains subtle. The acidity is so precise and focuses the flavors and nature. Lasts for minutes. Even better than the 2004.

99pts Decanter

The first aromatic impression is surprisingly floral in the context of such a hot vintage, and then evolves to reveal elements of menthol, liquorice and yellow fruit. With aeration, the bouquet blossoms to reveal increasing complexity, including spicy notes. On the palate, this is a fleshy and densely textured Clos du Mesnil with a salty tang on the finish, one that stands out for its singularity, albeit in the context of a classic crystalline, tense purity. Bravo – a work of art!

97pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Slated for release later this year, Krug's 2006 Blanc de Blancs Clos du Mesnil unwinds in the glass with aromas of buttered citrus fruit, crisp green pear, warm pastry, freshly baked bread, apricot and licorice. Full-bodied, layered and concentrated, the 2006's comparatively extroverted and gourmand bouquet is in contrast to its deep, chiseled and tightly wound palate, and it's here that the site really dominates the vintage signature. Long, sapid and penetrating, complemented by a pillowy pinpoint mousse, this is a brilliant Blanc de Blancs that has been well worth the wait. By the standards of young Clos du Mesnil, it's already quite approachable and can already be drunk with considerable satisfaction.

97pts Vinous

The 2006 Clos du Mesnil was harvested over three days, which is remarkable for a tiny parcel measuring 1.84 hectares divided into five blocks that are often picked over a wider timeframe. Soaring in the glass, the 2006 is stratospheric in its beauty. The richness of the year contrasts so beautifully with the flintiness and energy of Mesnil. With time in the glass the mousse softens, releasing layers of vinous intensity. Tangerine oil, pastry, lemon confit and marzipan all build effortlessly. The 2006 is sumptuous, racy and exotic to the core, with all of that richness supported by a phenolic, intense frame. 

97pts Wine Spectator

A stunner, displaying all the lithe grace of a ballet dancer that belies the underlying powerful musculature. Sleek acidity creates a mouthwatering impression throughout, seamlessly knit with the fine, creamy texture. Expressive lime blossom and spice aromatics are layered with fruit flavors of poached apricot, dried cherry and a touch of passion fruit coulis. Long and minerally on the racy finish, echoing rich, savory notes of grilled nut and espresso. 

95pts Wine & Spirits

The Krug brothers purchased this ancient walled vineyard in 1971, its 4.5 acres of Chardonnay adjacent to the village church in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. In 2006, the early summer heat that benefited the vines led to significant rains in August; rot might have been a problem had the sun not returned to finish ripening the grapes, readying Clos du Mesnil for harvest by the middle of September. The wine is more structured than most from the vintage, the oak fermentation of the base wine evident in the luscious litchi richness up front, turning toward elegant gingerlike freshness as the wine coasts into a creamy-brisk memory of the Côte des Blancs. 

Tasting Notes

At first sight, vibrant luminosity and an intense golden colour redolent of ripe wheat. On the nose, delicate aromas of citrus, barley sugar and dried fruits with balance and freshness. On the palate, it is 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.

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.

Winemaker Notes

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.

Krug’s Clos du Mesnil perpetuates the nonconformist spirit of Joseph Krug, founder of the House of Krug. It epitomises the House’s singular approach to Champagne making, which involves an in-depth knowledge of each plot and its individual wine, in order to create a Champagne of the undisputed quality envisioned by the founder.