Launched in 1999, Eroica is a labor of love for two of the world’s great Riesling producers. One from the Old World, Dr. Loosen estate of Germany, and the other from the New World, Chateau Ste. Michelle of Washington state. An intermingling of Old and New World philosophies and techniques enables the crafting of an extraordinary Riesling from Washington state grapes. Named for Beethoven’s Third Symphony, Eroica reflects not only its variety and site, but also its heritage: bold and forward read more... Launched in 1999, Eroica is a labor of love for two of the world’s great Riesling producers. One from the Old World, Dr. Loosen estate of Germany, and the other from the New World, Chateau Ste. Michelle of Washington state. An intermingling of Old and New World philosophies and techniques enables the crafting of an extraordinary Riesling from Washington state grapes. Named for Beethoven’s Third Symphony, Eroica reflects not only its variety and site, but also its heritage: bold and forward from its Washington roots, elegant and refined from German inspiration To protect flavor intensity, grapes were harvested at night when the vineyard temperatures were coldest. Berries went direct to press, avoiding the possible loss of freshness caused by a crusher/destemmer. A cool fermentation created a seamless integration of fruit, sugar and acid. Fruit-driven yeasts with slower fermentation rates were used to slow down fermentation and heighten fruit flavors. Ernst Loosen and Bob Bertheau considered dozens of small lots, each reflecting a slight difference in character depending on where the grapes were grown, resulting in the complexity of the final blend. (hide)