The 2010 Eroica Riesling had just been bottled when I tasted it. It displays similar aromatics but with more elevated acidity, a characteristic of the vintage that provides considerable refreshment in the finish. Chateau Ste. Michelle's portfolio remains strong.www.ste-michelle.com

For thoughts on Chateau Ste Michelle’s uniqueness and recent evolution, consult my extensive April, 2013 text designed to introduce recent tasting notes. Leaning heavily on fruit from Zillah Ranch in the Yakima Valley but also incorporating inter alia a significant share from Evergreen, the Ste Michelle-Loosen 2010 Riesling Eroica reflects its unusually cool and prolonged ripening season in a manner more tart-edged manner than the equally refreshing 2011. Green apple and crabapple as well as pineapple, white peach and honeydew melon inform a bright but (at 12.5% alcohol) quite substantial palate and a combination of density and vivacity such as is scarcely possible in wine from any other grape. As with other Eroica bottlings, given the high acidity and mere 16 grams of residual sugar here, it’s really a judgment call (and either choice you make could be held against you ;- ) as to whether you call it “dry.” This outstanding value finishes with real grip and tangy invigoration, aided by hints of apple pip, peach kernel and salt, and should perform well for at least half a dozen years. Tel. (425) 488-1133

Eroica has a proven ability to age; in fact it needs at least a half decade in the cellar to show its real strengths. Tight and packed with primary fruit flavors of lime and peach, this beautifully proportioned wine has perceptible sweetness but plenty of natural acidity. Lively and fresh today, but best given a few more years in the cellar.——P.G.(12/15/2011)—— 92