Although famous throughout Europe, the Charentais melon benefits neither from an AOC nor a PGI. This is why it can be grown everywhere. It is indeed not uncommon to find Charentais melons from Spain or Morocco in spring and autumn. However, the main production comes from the departments of Deux-Sèvres and Vienne, with around 55 tonnes per year.
This delicious fruit, with sweet flesh full of vitamins, comes in two varieties, yellow and green. The first is often more popular than the second, because it is tastierand fleshier. Traditionally, they are found on the shelves between May and September.
Charentais melon is very popular along with country ham and port, but it can also be eaten plain with a glass of pineau des Charentes. Rich in vitamin C and carotene, it is excellent for health, and being 90% water, it is a light dish that is very enjoyable in the summer.
Each year in August, the town of Saint-Georges-des-Coteaux hosts its traditional melon festival. This is an opportunity to buy some of these cucurbits and enjoy the many activities offered during these two days.