It is a direct competitor to the chardonnay grape variety. Due to its high productivity it has been forbidden in the upper Burgundy region by The Duke of Burgundy. Therefore, growers chose the Chardonnay over the Melon variety.
Colour: Golden yellow berries.
Frequency: 28,000 ha area planted worldwide.
Synonym(s): Mostly known under the name of “Muscadet” or “Petit Muscadet”.
In Anjou they call it “Bourgignon blanc” or petite Bourgogne”.
Origin: Burgundy, France.
Maturity: First period
Sensitivity to diseases: Downy mildew, powdery mildew, and extremely sensitive grey rot which gives the nickname of “pourrisseux” (= rot).
Area(s) Cultivated: Cold climate grape.
France→ Loire, Savoy, Jura, Burgundy.
Worldwide→ USA (California), Argentina.
Type of Wines [ Profile ]
White wines with little acidity.
Facts and tips:
- Unique grape variety of the 4 Appellations of Muscadet: “Muscadet”, “Muscadet des Côteaux de la Loire”, “Muscadet-Sèvre-et-Maine”, “Muscadet-Côtes-de-Grand-lieu”.
- In California, Melon grape variety is miscalled as Pinot blanc.
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