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| Melon | |
Clonal
selection : |
Category B |
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Photo
credit Entav |
Photo
credit Entav |
|
This
grape variety, originally from Burgundy, has had a rather checkered history.
In the 16th century, Philippe II of Spain, Count of Burgundy, decided
the Melon was too extensively cultivated in Burgundy and ordered its destruction.
The Burgundian Parliament did the same in the early 18th century. As a
result, this grape variety gradually moved to the mouth of the Loire River,
in the Nantes area, where it now covers several thousand hectares, producing
AOC Muscadet. It is a very reliable producer with early bud-break. It
is resistant to cold weather but not to gray rot or downy mildew. Both
bunches and grapes tend to be small. Melon produces very pleasant, fresh,
light wines, with iodine or herbaceous aromas that make a perfect match
with oysters from the Atlantic Coast. These wines are often aged on the
lees until they are bottled in late January-early February, which accentuates
their finesse and softness. |
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