In the U.S., Federal law prevents "Muscadet" from being used for American-produced wine; only the full name of the grape, or the shortened "Melon" can be used.

[1] As its name suggests, the grape originated in Burgundy and was grown there until its destruction was ordered in the early 18th century.

In the vineyards around Nantes and the western Loire, however, the harsh winter of 1709 destroyed so many vines that a new variety was needed, and the Melon grape was introduced.

Since then it has been used solely in the production of the light dry white wine Muscadet, which is made entirely from the Melon grape.

The grape has been introduced into Washington by Perennial Vintners on Bainbridge Island, six miles across Puget Sound from Seattle.