food & drink
in the 1990s promoting Krug to an educated and appreciative audience. “London and Tokyo vie for the position of my favourite city,” says Olivier. “I love them both for their incredible energy.” Does he speak Japanese? “Only after a few drinks,” he smiles. His other major passions are fishing and family, although he concedes that his family doesn’t get together as often as he would like. The conversation turns to Olivier’s children, and the question of succession. I ask if he wants, or indeed expects his son to follow in his footsteps. “Of course, I would be proud if he continued the tradition, but ultimately he has to follow his own path,” Olivier replies. “So perhaps I will
s l u x u ry l o n d o n . c o. u k s
From far left: Olivier Krug in the vineyard; The 2002 Krug vintage; Krug HOUSE
be the last generation of the Krug family to be involved in the house. Although I’m not planning to retire any time soon – let's wait and see!” As the interview draws to an end, we come full circle and muse over Joseph Krug’s legacy that has endured for more than a century. While I’m sure that Krug will continue to thrive even after Olivier’s – eventual – retirement, it will nonetheless be slightly poorer for this remarkable man’s absence. The 2002 Krug vintage is available at Claridge’s, and is also stocked at Berry Bros. & Rudd, Farr Vintners, and Fine+Rare
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