The Grauburgunder
Grape
Known outside of Germany as Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio, Grauburgunder is a white grape variety that produces wines ranging from light and crisp to full-bodied and rich, depending on the region and winemaking style. In Germany, it often presents flavors of pear, apple, and almond, with a balanced acidity and sometimes a hint of spice.
Grauburgunder
Grape History
Grauburgunder, also known as Pinot Gris in France and Pinot Grigio in Italy, is a versatile white wine grape with a long and interesting history. The origins of Grauburgunder can be traced back to the Burgundy region of France in the Middle Ages. It is a mutation of the Pinot Noir grape, which is considered one of the oldest grape varieties in the world.
Grauburgunder translates to "grey Burgundy" in German, which refers to the grape's characteristic greyish-blue fruit, unlike the red fruit of its parent grape, Pinot Noir. The grape is known for its thick skin, which gives the wine its distinctive coppery color and adds texture and complexity to the finished product.
Today, Grauburgunder is grown in various wine regions around the world, including France, Italy, Germany, Austria, the United States (particularly in Oregon and California), and Australia. The grape thrives in cool climate regions with well-drained soils, where it can develop its signature balance of acidity and fruitiness.
Grauburgunder is used to produce a range of wine styles, from light and crisp to rich and full-bodied. In Alsace, France, it is known for producing aromatic, full-bodied wines with flavors of ripe pear, apple, and sometimes a touch of spiciness. In Italy, particularly in the northeastern region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Grauburgunder is used to create fresh, mineral-driven wines with notes of citrus and stone fruits. In Germany and Austria, the grape is made into dry or off-dry wines with flavors of orchard fruits, honey, and sometimes a hint of smokiness.
The popularity of Grauburgunder has been steadily rising in recent years, with consumers increasingly seeking out food-friendly white wines with depth and character. Its ability to pair well with a wide range of foods, from seafood and poultry to creamy pastas and spicy dishes, has contributed to its growing appeal.
Looking towards the future, Grauburgunder is expected to continue to gain traction globally as winemakers explore its potential in different terroirs and winemaking techniques. Climate change may also play a role in the expansion of Grauburgunder vineyards to new regions as growers seek out cooler climates to preserve the grape's acidity and freshness.
In conclusion, Grauburgunder is a grape variety with a rich history, distinctive characteristics, and promising future in the world of wine. Its versatility, balanced acidity, and ability to reflect its terroir make it a wine worth seeking out and exploring.