Melon de Bourgogne

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Melon de Bourgogne is a variety of white grape grown in the Loire Valley region of France and best known through its use in the wine Muscadet.

As its name suggests, the grape originated in Burgundy and was grown there until its destruction was ordered in the early 18th century. In the vineyards around Nantes, however, the harsh winter of 1709 destroyed so many vines that a new variety was needed, and the Melon grape was introduced. Melon is distinguished by its great resistance to frost.

Since then it has been used solely in the production of the light dry white wine Muscadet, which is made entirely from the Melon grape. The grape is so associated with this popular appellation of the western Loire that the grape itself is often known as Muscadet. In terms of flavour it is an undistinguished grape with few strong features.

A few acres of the grape are also grown in Oregon, where it is known simply as Melon.

In recent years, Melon de Bourgogne has been reintroduced to its original home region of Burgundy, particularly to the minor appellation of Bourgogne de Vēzelay. In the warmer, drier climate of Burgundy, the grape produces a fruitier, less astringent^{[citation needed]} wine than Muscadet.