2014 年英雄金獎

Winery Background and History

Chateau Ste. Michelle, established in 1934, is Washington State’s oldest winery and a pioneer in the American wine industry. In 1999, the winery partnered with renowned German winemaker Dr. Ernst Loosen to create Eroica, a line of Rieslings that marries Old World traditions with New World innovation. The collaboration aims to showcase the versatility and elegance of Riesling, drawing from Washington’s unique terroir and Germany’s rich winemaking heritage.

Producer and Winemaker

The Eroica Gold Riesling is a joint endeavor between Chateau Ste. Michelle’s head winemaker, Bob Bertheau, and Dr. Ernst Loosen of the Mosel Valley. Their combined expertise brings together meticulous vineyard management and precise winemaking techniques. Bertheau focuses on highlighting the purity of Washington fruit, while Loosen brings a deep understanding of Riesling’s potential, especially in crafting wines influenced by Botrytis cinerea, or noble rot.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The 2014 Eroica Gold Riesling sources its grapes predominantly from the Horse Heaven Vineyard (62%) in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA and the Evergreen Vineyard (38%) in the Ancient Lakes AVA. The Horse Heaven Vineyard benefits from early-morning humidity and moderate daytime temperatures, conditions conducive to the development of Botrytis cinerea. The Evergreen Vineyard contributes to the wine’s bright acidity and minerality. The combination of these sites results in a wine with concentrated flavors and balanced freshness.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes were harvested at night to preserve their freshness and acidity. The berries were pressed directly, avoiding the use of a crusher/destemmer to maintain the integrity of the fruit. Fermentation was conducted at cool temperatures using fruit-driven yeasts with slower fermentation rates, enhancing the wine’s aromatic profile. Multiple small lots were fermented separately, each reflecting the unique characteristics of their vineyard sources, and later blended to achieve complexity and balance.

Tasting Notes

The 2014 Eroica Gold Riesling presents intense aromas of orange blossom, honey, apricot, and sweet spice. On the palate, it offers decadent flavors of ripe pineapple and honey, leading to a long, luscious finish. The wine’s bright natural acidity balances its concentrated, ripe fruit flavors and touch of sweetness, resulting in an elegant and harmonious profile. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Riesling pairs exceptionally well with spicy Asian dishes, Indian curries, and seafood such as crab and scallops. Its sweetness and acidity complement the heat and complexity of spicy cuisines, while its rich fruit flavors enhance the delicate flavors of seafood. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve the Eroica Gold Riesling chilled, at a temperature between 8°C and 10°C (46°F to 50°F), to highlight its aromatic complexity and refreshing acidity. Use a white wine glass with a narrow bowl to concentrate the wine’s delicate aromas. No decanting is necessary; the wine is ready to enjoy upon opening.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2014 Eroica Gold Riesling has excellent aging potential, with the ability to develop further complexity over the next 10 to 15 years. Proper cellaring will enhance its honeyed and nutty characteristics, adding depth to its already rich profile. Store the wine in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature to ensure optimal aging.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Riesling: 100%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

9.5%

Scores

• Owen Bargreen: 94 Points

• James Suckling: 92 Points

• Wine Enthusiast: 89 Points