Grauburgunder

Grauburgunder, also known as Pinot Gris in France and Pinot Grigio in Italy, is a white grape grown in Germany. The name Grauburgunder is a translation from "Gray Burgundy", because of its gray-blue grape skin and the fact it comes from the Pinot Noir family. In Germany, wines from the Grauburgunder grape are more full-bodied dry white wines. In most cases fuller bodied than the wines from the Pinot Grigio grape.

The color of the wines are pale straw to deep golden yellow, depending on the ripeness of the grapes and winemaking. The acidity is moderate.

Grauburgunder wines are usually dry. There are also off-dry and sweet versions, though they are less common.

Taste

Grauburgunder wines are known for their ripe fruit flavors and balance: Pear, apple, quince, subtle citrus, lemon. In some cases stone fruits like peach and apricot. Other elements are almond and hazelnut and spicy notes, particularly in oak-aged wines.

Some Grauburgender wines have a nice minerality, especially from regions like Baden or Pfalz.

The texture can be creamy or silky, especially when fermented in oak or aged on lees.