The former head of the Krug Champagne house, Henri Krug, has died.

“It is with profound sadness that we learned yesterday of the passing of Henri Krug at the age of 76,” announced Maggie Henriquez, president and CEO of Krug, in a statement. “Our thoughts are with his family, especially his wife Odile and his five children, including Olivier, and his brother Rémi Krug.”

Henriquez added: “Henri Krug was an emblematic person in the Champagne world, a man very well respected for his generosity and his convictions. Always striving to go even further in the creation of his champagnes, he contributed to the acceleration of the development of Krug across the globe."

Henri was the fifth generation to head the Krug business with Rémi. During their tenure, the pair introduced Krug Rosé, Krug Clos du Mesnil and Krug Clos d’Ambonnay.

"People said we were both halves of the same fruit," Rémi told the regional daily newspaper, L'Union. "He was quiet, reserved, modest, and always listened to what other people had to say."

Henri led the family business from 1977 until his retirement in 2002, during which time the company was sold to luxury goods business LVMH. After handing over the reins to his son Olivier, Henri remained on the tasting panel.

In Don Hewitson's 1989 book "The Glory of Champagne," Henri described the blending process as "the creation of a symphony," with each instrument "playing its part and contributing to the harmony of the 'whole' work."

“Henri Krug leaves a cherished mark on the history of the House, and his fond memory remains etched onto our hearts as well as those of his family and loved ones,” said Henriquez.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday afternoon in Reims.