From Sparrow’s white wine list, the Eroica Riesling is one of Washington State’s most celebrated whites, a benchmark Riesling made right here in our backyard ($52 by the bottle). As a Kirkland restaurant, we love pouring a wine with such deep Pacific Northwest roots.
About Eroica Riesling
Eroica is the famous collaboration between Chateau Ste. Michelle, one of Washington’s flagship wineries and one of the largest Riesling producers in the world, and Ernst Loosen, the renowned Riesling master from Germany’s Mosel Valley. The project launched in 1999 after Loosen approached Ste. Michelle, having been impressed by the quality of Washington Riesling. Their shared goal was ambitious: to make the best Washington Riesling they could and, in doing so, to help define what Washington Riesling should taste like. They succeeded. Eroica became a true benchmark, one of the wines people point to when they talk about American Riesling done right. The fruit comes from the Columbia Valley, and over the years much of the sourcing has moved toward Washington’s cooler, higher-elevation sites, which help preserve the bright acidity that is the soul of great Riesling. The winemaking philosophy has always centered on that vibrant acidity, building a wine that is balanced and refreshing rather than heavily sweet. The name Eroica, borrowed from Beethoven’s Third Symphony, hints at the ambition behind it.
Tasting Notes
Eroica is built around bright, lively acidity, the defining identity of the grape. In the cool-climate Columbia Valley style, expect crisp citrus and orchard fruit, a floral aromatic lift, and a clean, mouthwatering finish. There is a touch of fruit sweetness on the entry that is balanced by that crisp acidity, so the wine stays fresh and food-friendly rather than cloying. It is a wonderfully versatile pour.
What to Pair It With
This is a fantastic food wine, especially with seafood and dishes that carry a little spice or richness. From the Sparrow dinner menu, pour it with the Fresh Oysters, the Guajillo Chicken, the Pacific Black Cod, or the Wild Alaskan Halibut. It also shines alongside the Scallops and Prosciutto.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Eroica Riesling?
Eroica is a collaboration between Chateau Ste. Michelle in Washington and German Riesling master Ernst Loosen of Dr. Loosen, launched in 1999. It is made from Columbia Valley fruit and is considered a benchmark for Washington Riesling.
How much is the Eroica Riesling at Sparrow?
It is $52 by the bottle at Sparrow in Kirkland.
Is Eroica Riesling sweet or dry?
It is built around bright, lively acidity, with just a touch of fruit sweetness that keeps it balanced and refreshing rather than heavily sweet.
Find it on the Sparrow beverages menu near the David Hill Riesling and the CSM Gruner Veltliner. We are in Kirkland’s Juanita neighborhood on the Eastside, so reserve a table and come enjoy a glass.