Grapes: 45% Pinot Noir, 37% Chardonnay and 18% Pinot Meunier.

A Perry's favorite, Krug Grande Cuvée is born from the dream of one man, Joseph Krug, to craft the very best Champagne he could offer, every single year, regardless of annual variations in climate. Since 1843, the House of Krug has honoured this vision with each new edition of Krug Grande Cuvée, now brought to life by female Cellar Master Julie Cavil.

Krug Grande Cuvée 171ème edition was composed around the harvest of 2015, a year marked by unprecedented heat and drought that prevailed from the end of May to mid-August, slowing grape development. Fortunately, rains in the second half of August allowed the berries to grow and, combined with sunshine and reasonable temperatures, ensured ripening in optimal conditions. The harvest took place between August 31 and September 21, under the rain, with great heterogeneity from plot to plot.

The wine is, as always, exceptional. A light golden colour and fine, vivacious bubbles, introduce one of the world's greatest wines. The nose floods with aromas of flowers in bloom, ripe, dried and citrus fruits, as well as marzipan and gingerbread, whilst the palate reveals grilled notes and flavors of almond paste, quince, lemon, limoncello and dried fruit.

James Suckling: 99 points.