We are intrigued to report that a 1928 bottle of Krug bubbly broke the world record for the most expensive bottle of Champagne sold at Acker Merrall & Condit’s auction. The sale occurred on March, 28th in Hong Kong.
After several rounds of bidding, Krug collection 1928 sold for HK$164,560 (US$21,200) above the highest estimate of HK$120,000. Now how much is that per glass?

Krug Collection represents the last bottles available of an exceptional past vintage, carefully stored in the Krug cellars. An absolute rarity, it is the ultimate expression of the legendary longevity of Krug champagnes.
This is what the company says justifys the unbelievable success of Krug 1928 :

First, the reputation of Krug.

Krug wine making philosophy was exactly the same as today. At the heart of the Krug philosophy is a set of choices which – though individually they might be replicated – together make Krug what it is.

• Precise choice of grapes, vineyards and farmers beyond the just varieties approach

• First fermentation exclusively conducted in small oak casks to enable each and every wine to develop its true character before playing its part in the blend

• Blending process and decision personally made by the Krug family.

• Long ageing in Krug cellars before actual release: Krug 1928 was on release in the U.K. when the war started in 1939.

Second, the high expectation from experts for this extraordinary vintage.

The climate in 1928 was perfect in every sense with proper alternence – and at the right moment – of sun, heat, dryness and rain. Grapes were beautiful and healthy. Picking took place at the end of September: perfection of balance between a high sugar content and a high acidity (important for long ageing potential).

Krug 1928 has grown in ampleness, depth, complexity and developed stunning notes of apricot and honey yet retaining at the same time its vibrations and fresh lively finish with even a nice yet moderate mousse.

And then, the limited availability of Krug 1928 aggravated by the absence of good vintages in the early ‘30s.

Still seems like a lot of money for a really old bottle of bubbly. We wonder if anyone will ever drink it, and if so, is it still any good after 80 years?

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