What it's like to Visit Krug Champagne Winery
- EH
- 4 days ago
- 10 min read
Visiting Krug Champagne Winery in Reims offers a luxurious and highly curated experience for champagne enthusiasts.
Known for its legacy since 1843, Krug has built its reputation on producing high-quality champagne, regardless of vintage conditions, using oak barrels and a library of reserve wines. Tasting appointments are exclusive, requiring advance planning through approved luxury partners or direct inquiries showcasing genuine interest. Costs for tastings are premium, reflecting the exclusivity, with packages often including VIP tours, Michelin-starred dining, and luxury accommodations.
Key Takeaways:
Booking: Visits by appointment only, often through luxury partners.
Costs: Tasting packages start in the mid-hundreds, with full tours costing $3,000+ per person.
Location: Reims, France, accessible via TGV from Paris or by car.
Highlights: Signature champagnes like Grande Cuvée, Clos du Mesnil, and music pairings enhance the experience.
Dress Code: Elegant casual with closed-toe shoes for cellar tours.
Planning ahead (2+ months) is essential, and packages often include exclusive extras like private transfers and gourmet meals.
Video: I GOT INTO the WORLD-FAMOUS Champagne House
How to Visit Krug Champagne for a Tasting
A visit to Krug Champagne is a special experience, but it’s not as simple as walking in off the street. Access is strictly by appointment, and the winery carefully curates each visit to maintain its exclusive and intimate atmosphere. Here’s how you can secure your tasting appointment at Krug.
Access Requirements and Policies
Krug no longer offers private tours to the general public. Instead, visits are reserved for those who arrange appointments through approved luxury partners or by submitting direct inquiries that demonstrate a genuine passion for Krug's craft. Keep in mind, direct inquiries are rarely accepted unless they reflect a sincere interest in Krug’s philosophy and offerings.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
The easiest way to book a visit is through one of Krug's trusted luxury partners. For example, packages like those offered by L'Assiette Champenoise often include a Krug tasting as part of a broader experience. Alternatively, you can reach out directly via Krug's official "Contact Us" page. Responses typically arrive within 1–2 business days.
When making a direct inquiry, it’s important to express your appreciation for Krug's winemaking approach. Mentioning specific champagnes, such as the Grande Cuvée editions or the single-vineyard Clos cuvées, can help demonstrate your genuine interest and increase the likelihood of securing a visit.
Cost and Pricing Information
Krug doesn’t publicly list prices for its tasting experiences, but be prepared for a premium cost that reflects the exclusivity of the visit. Looking at bottle prices can give you an idea of what to expect. For instance:
Grande Cuvée 169e Édition: Approximately $235
Grande Cuvée 172e Édition: Around $315
Krug Rosé 28e Édition: About $428
Vintage 2011: Around $408
Clos du Mesnil Blanc de Blancs (2009): Nearly $1,835
Tasting packages, especially those offered through luxury partners, often start in the mid-hundreds and can go into the low thousands per person. Prices depend on the champagnes included and any additional luxury services. For more detailed pricing, you can contact Krug directly at +33 3 26 84 44 20. However, keep in mind that securing an appointment can be just as challenging as the financial commitment.
Preparing for Your Krug Visit
With your reservation in place, the next step is getting ready for this exclusive experience. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Getting to Krug in Reims
Krug is located at 5 Rue Coquebert, 51100 Reims, nestled in the prestigious Champagne district. Conveniently, it’s within walking distance of other renowned champagne houses, making it accessible whether you’re staying in Reims or traveling from Paris.
If you’re coming from Paris, the TGV high-speed train is a quick and efficient option, taking about 45 minutes from Paris East station to Reims Central Station. From there, you can either take a short taxi ride or enjoy a leisurely walk through Reims’ charming streets to reach Krug.
Driving from Paris takes about 90 minutes via the A4 highway. However, parking in central Reims can be tricky. Many visitors opt for nearby public garages like Parking Cathédrale or Parking Erlon. Staying overnight in Reims is another great choice, especially if you plan to visit other champagne houses. This way, you can relax and fully enjoy your experience.
Dress Code and Etiquette
Krug exudes understated luxury, so your attire should reflect a mix of elegance and comfort. While there’s no strict dress code, the general recommendation is elegant casual. Think polished yet practical.
"While there's no strict dress code, elegant casual attire is recommended: think sophisticated yet comfortable. Avoid wearing strong perfumes, as these can interfere with the tasting experience."SmoothRed
For men, this could mean dress pants or chinos paired with a collared shirt or sweater. Women might opt for a blouse with dress pants, a midi dress, or a chic skirt with a comfortable top.
Footwear matters. Since the chalk cellars have uneven and sometimes damp floors, closed-toe shoes are the safest and most comfortable choice. Avoid high heels or wedges to navigate the space easily.
Layering is also key. The cellars maintain a cool temperature of around 50–55°F (10–13°C), so a lightweight sweater or jacket will keep you comfortable. If parts of your tour include outdoor areas, consider bringing a hat and sunglasses for sunny weather.
To avoid accidental distractions, stick to minimal accessories, such as simple jewelry and a small crossbody bag. Wearing darker colors can also help conceal any potential wine spills, ensuring you stay worry-free during the tasting.
What to Research Before Your Visit
Doing a bit of homework before your visit can make the experience even more rewarding. Familiarizing yourself with Krug's signature champagnes is a great place to start. The Grande Cuvée, their flagship non-vintage blend, is crafted using a unique reserve library system. Understanding how it differs from their vintage cuvées or the rare single-vineyard bottlings like Clos du Mesnil and Clos d’Ambonnay will add depth to your tasting.
It’s also worth learning about Julie Cavil, Krug's current Chef de Cave, who took over from Eric Lebel around 2020. Knowing how she balances tradition with her own vision can provide a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Another intriguing aspect to explore is Krug's Music Pairings program, which matches specific musical pieces with each champagne to highlight its character. This unique approach might feature during your visit.
Brushing up on basic champagne tasting techniques can also enhance your experience. Understanding how to evaluate color, bubbles (mousse), and aroma will help you engage more fully in the process. Learning a few key champagne terms - like "autolysis", "dosage", and "disgorgement" - can make it easier to follow along during the guided tour.
Lastly, think about any specific questions you’d like to ask. Krug's knowledgeable ambassadors are happy to discuss anything from the riddling process and aging methods to vineyard practices. A little curiosity can lead to some fascinating insights!
What to Expect During Your Tasting
Your exclusive reservation at Krug Champagne Winery promises an experience that blends tradition, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for champagne. Here's a glimpse of what lies ahead during your tasting.
The Krug Family House and Cellars
Your journey begins at the beautifully restored Krug Family House, a place steeped in history and charm. From there, you'll explore the iconic chalk cellars, where your guide will share how reserve wines contribute to the intricate flavors of Krug's celebrated blends. It's a chance to witness the artistry behind every bottle.
Krug Champagnes You'll Taste
Prepare to savor an exceptional lineup of Krug champagnes. The tasting kicks off with their signature Grande Cuvée, followed by vintage cuvées, the elegant Krug Rosé, and rare single-vineyard expressions like Clos du Mesnil and Clos d'Ambonnay. Each sip tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship.
Expert Guidance and Music Pairings
A dedicated ambassador will lead you through the tasting, offering insights into Krug's winemaking philosophy and the unique characteristics of each champagne. To enhance the experience, you'll enjoy thoughtfully curated music pairings, adding a sensory dimension to the journey. You'll also gain valuable perspectives from experts like Chef de Caves Julie Cavil, making the experience truly unforgettable.
Making the Most of Your Experience
Starting your journey with a glass of Krug Grande Cuvée is an experience in itself, but using the right tasting techniques can elevate it to something truly unforgettable. By paying attention to the finer details, you'll uncover the intricate craftsmanship that has earned Krug its legendary status.
Food Pairing Recommendations
Pairing Krug champagnes with the right foods can transform a great tasting into an extraordinary one. For Krug Grande Cuvée, lean seafood dishes like fresh oysters are a perfect match. The champagne's crisp acidity and mineral notes beautifully enhance the briny flavors of shellfish.
For vintage cuvées, try salted butter pastries such as croissants or sablés. The buttery richness complements the champagne's creamy texture, while a hint of salt highlights its minerality.
When enjoying the rare Clos cuvées, opt for lighter, refined dishes. The Clos du Mesnil pairs exquisitely with delicate white fish or caviar, allowing its precise elegance to shine. On the other hand, the Clos d'Ambonnay, made from Pinot Noir, stands up well to richer fare like smoked salmon or select aged cheeses. But the experience doesn't have to end there - there are plenty of ways to continue your Krug journey.
Extending Your Krug Experience
Once you've mastered tasting and pairing, consider extending your Krug adventure with luxurious accommodations and exclusive experiences. Staying in Reims, the heart of Champagne, offers a perfect backdrop for deepening your connection to the region.
For a truly memorable stay, check out L'Assiette Champenoise, which combines refined lodging with a triple Michelin-starred restaurant offering tasting menus designed to complement Krug champagnes. Alternatively, the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa provides a sophisticated retreat, complete with amenities tailored for relaxation. Other excellent options include La Caserne Chanzy and Domaine Les Crayères, both of which reflect the rich heritage and gastronomy of the Champagne region.
To keep the magic alive even after leaving, seek out Krug Ambassades - a network of select restaurants and bars worldwide that specialize in serving Krug champagnes alongside curated culinary experiences. These venues uphold the same high standards of service and presentation you’ve come to expect, ensuring your Krug journey continues no matter where you are.
Planning Your Perfect Krug Tasting Visit
Visiting Krug is a truly exclusive experience, but it requires some careful preparation. The winery operates on an invitation-only policy, meaning you can only secure a visit through specialized luxury tour operators or by receiving a personal invitation.
To ensure everything goes smoothly, plan ahead - at least two months in advance for a standard visit. If you're organizing a larger group or attending a special event, you’ll need to start even earlier, ideally 6 to 12 months beforehand. Availability is limited, so early planning is key.
All visits are arranged through pre-approved packages offered by authorized partners. These operators have established connections with Krug, making them your go-to resource for setting up your experience.
Important scheduling note: Krug does not host visitors on weekends. Be sure to factor this into your itinerary for Reims. Visits are available year-round, but dates are subject to Krug's availability. This exclusivity also impacts pricing.
Pricing and Packages
Tour costs fluctuate depending on the season. Prices are generally higher during the peak season (April to October), while discounts might be available in the quieter months (November to March). For example, a 3-day luxury Krug tour package through operators like Grape Escapes costs between $3,020 and $3,210 per person (£2,471 to £2,628) for double occupancy.
What’s included in the Grape Escapes package? Here’s a glimpse:
5-star accommodations at L'Assiette Champenoise
VIP tours of the Krug Family House
Private transfers
Dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant
2 breakfasts, 1 dinner, and tastings of approximately 5 champagnes
To secure your spot, a 20% deposit is required, with the remaining balance due 60 days before your trip.
Transportation and Accommodation
Keep in mind that travel to Reims is not included in most packages. To make your experience as seamless as possible, book a package that includes private transfers. This ensures you’ll enjoy a premium, stress-free journey.
For accommodations, luxury operators recommend staying at L'Assiette Champenoise, a 5-star hotel that perfectly complements the elegance of a Krug visit. The property features high-end amenities like a top-tier suite, an indoor pool, and a restaurant boasting three Michelin stars.
With every detail thoughtfully arranged, your Krug tasting experience promises to be an unforgettable blend of sophistication and tradition.
FAQs
What’s the best way to secure a tasting appointment at Krug Champagne Winery if I’m not using a luxury tour operator?
To improve your chances of booking a tasting appointment at Krug Champagne Winery, your best bet is to contact them directly through their official contact form or email. Since the winery operates strictly by appointment and isn't open to casual visitors, planning ahead is absolutely essential.
If direct booking proves challenging, you might want to enlist the help of a luxury concierge or an authorized tour operator with connections to Krug. Tastings at Krug are private and tailored to an exclusive clientele, so be prepared for pricing that matches the premium nature of the experience.
What are the best techniques to fully enjoy a champagne tasting at Krug?
To get the best out of your champagne tasting at Krug, start by serving it at just the right temperature - somewhere between 48°F and 54°F. If it's too cold, the wine's aromas and flavors can become subdued, so keeping it in this range is key. Also, don’t overlook the importance of glassware. Instead of the traditional flute, opt for a white Burgundy wine glass or the specially designed Joseph glass for Krug. These options allow the champagne's aromatic layers to shine, offering a richer experience.
For something truly special, explore Krug's Music Pairings program. This unique concept pairs music with the tasting, creating a sensory journey that enhances the champagne’s intricate flavors and textures. Lastly, take your time. Sip slowly, with an open mind, to fully appreciate the depth and artistry behind every bottle of Krug.
What makes a Krug champagne tasting experience special and unique?
A Krug champagne tasting is more than just sipping bubbly - it's an exclusive, sensory experience that stands out. Guests are treated to tastings of Krug's celebrated champagnes, often accompanied by the house’s Music Pairings program, where carefully selected soundtracks elevate the flavors and aromas of each pour. Adding a personal touch, Krug ambassadors share stories that delve into the history, artistry, and dedication behind every cuvée.
These tastings take place in settings that are just as exquisite as the champagne itself. Whether it's the historic Krug Family House or the iconic chalk cellars, the atmosphere immerses visitors in the brand’s rich heritage. Every detail, from the ambiance to the storytelling, is crafted to offer a truly unforgettable journey into the world of Krug.
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