Grauburgunder Photo: © Bernd Lang - Fotolia.com Also known as:  Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, Ruländer, Grauer Burgunder The Grauburgunder grape was introduced into Germany from the French Burgundy region in the 1500's. Today, Grauburgunder plantings cover 10,828 acres (4,382 hectares) or 4.3% of Germany's wine regions - mainly in the Baden, Pfalz, and Rheinhessen regions. Grauburgunder wines are usually dry and slightly acidic. Those wines labeled as Ruländer are richer, fuller in body, sweeter, and more fragrant. Depending on the quality level of the wine, the color ranges from pale yellow to golden to almost amber. The wine shows fragrances of nuts, almonds, butter, pears, raisins, pineapple, and citrus fruits. A young, light, dry to medium dry Grauburgunder wine is perfect as a summer wine. Dry Kabinett and Spätlese wines pair well with seafood, pasta, lamb, game, and soft cheeses. Sweeter Spätlese and Auslese wines fit well with rich cheeses and desserts made with honey, almonds, or marzipan.