The 1979 Krug Collection was poured from magnum and unlike the 1964 Private Cuvée, this magnificent Champagne bowled me over. Almost clinical in terms of its delineation on the nose, it exudes spellbinding mineralité, hints of wet limestone, glimpses of brioche, almond and white chalk, all delivered with thrilling energy. The palate is exquisitely balanced with a fine line of acidity that makes this Krug feel so effortless. Harmonious from the start, with traces of blood orange and quince that decorate a finish that fans out gloriously. Utter class. The 1979 Collection encapsulates everything there is to love about Champagne. Certainly in this format I can see it giving another three of four decades of drinking pleasure. 98/Drink 2020-2045

Although this wine will probably live long, it will never be better than it was in 1990. Then there was a life and a glass development that was an unmatchable pleasure. First a closed but top-class nose, which opened up after ten minutes into a Montrachet-like depth of the loveliest of wine aromas. It has a classically well-balanced structure, with a long, nutty aftertaste that is close to perfection. Later bottles have shown an even greater richness of taste, but some of the elegance has been lost.

The 1979 Collection was explosive, rich and layered, with a kaleidoscopic array of aromas and flavors, and long, exceptionally pure finish. It was pure magic.