This is what good wine from the Melon de Bourgogne grape tastes like

Melon de Bourgogne is often called Muscadet, after the appellation of the same name in the western Loire Valley. Its original name is Melon de Bourgogne, as it originates from Burgundy. Melon de Bourgogne produces uncomplicated, fairly neutral, light white wines that rely on their freshness.

Melon de Bourgogne/Muscadet grows in the Pays Nantais, in the far west of the Loire Valley, right on the Atlantic Ocean. To extract more flavor and power from the grape, top winemakers make it "sur lie." They leave the lees, including the yeast, in the barrel until the first spring. Only then do they filter it out. This method gives the wine more expression, depth, and sometimes a touch of sparkle, as some carbon can remain in the wine.

Until it was banned there in the 18th century, Melon de Bourgogne was an important grape variety in Burgundy. It was given a second chance in the Pays Nantais in the Loire Valley after the very harsh winter of 1709 destroyed a large part of the vineyards there. Melon de Bourgogne thrives in snow and ice and was therefore a welcome new grape.