Michael Edwards: The ’98 encépagement of 45% Chardonnay, 36% Pinot, and 19% Meunier reflects the roller-coaster nature of the pre-harvest weather: record heat in August, then rain in early September, caused some outbreaks of rot in black grapes, which led to the majority belief then that Chardonnay coped best in the circumstances. I believe it’s a year where the Krugs’ intuitive belief in the virtue of their favorite parcels and crus triumphed. Lightly evolving, lustrous fine gold; beautiful multitoned aromas of both citrus and orchard stone fruits. A mouthfeel of balanced ripeness and driving raciness, enhanced by a streak of elegant acidity. Medium-weight, supple but focused, subtleties of flavors its strong card. 18