The Poitou-Charentes now France’s foremost producer of melons and they have been cultivated here since the 16th century.

Originally it was a variety known as ‘Cantaloup de Bellegarde’ that was grown but that was supplanted by the ‘Charentaise’ which is larger, easier to grow and has a longer shelf-life. This is the melon you will most commonly see. However, do look out for the Melon du Haut-Poitou – especially if you’re travelling north and north-east of Poitiers – first grown 150 years ago and the first French melon to be given an Indication Geographique Protégée, giving it and the area it is grown in, official recognition of quality.

It is particularly juicy and tasty, benefitting from hot summer days and cool nights in the 90 days it takes to grow. When choosing your melon, make sure it feels heavy in your hand. The colour must be from a clear green to yellow, with pronounced green vertical markings and the skin must feel fresh and supple (not hard). Finally, it must have a subtle aroma – too strong and it is past its best.