Melons have been cultivated in The Haut-Poitou since 1850. Today they are renowned for their quality and their origin is guaranteed thanks to their IGP status (protected geographical identity).

In 1989, recognizing the exceptional combination of the quality of soil and the climate of his domain, Robert Franchineau, surrounded by a competent and experienced team, invested in the best available equipment and together with six other producers launched the venture of VAL DE SERIGNY: the production of melons of the best varieties in La Vienne, a department of Haut-Poitou.

In a strictly defined perimeter of production, the melons are cultivated in the well-irrigated soil composed of a mixture of clay and chalk. Over their growth period of 3 ½ months, they mature gradually, warmed by the slow increase in the ground temperature, until ripening in the summer season.

The VAL DE SERIGNY melon, with its attractive appearance (the skin is either smooth or lacy), firm texture and subtle aroma is the fruit of these exceptional conditions. Above all, the melon’s gradual ripening confers a distinctive and delicious flavor. The VAL DE SERIGNY variety truly deserves its reputation of “melon grand cru”.

Today VAL DE SERIGNY melons widely recognized and production has increased regularly over the years. The company has made important investments to guarantee the continuing satisfaction of customers, both new and longstanding. In 2005, 11 millions or approximately 8 000 tons of melons were produced.

In spite of this rapid development, VAL DE SERIGNY continues to respect its heritage by using traditional methods. To avoid exhausting the soil, strictly identified plots are cultivated in 6 year cycles and the use of chemicals is restricted to a minimum. Picking, so important for the quality of melons, is strictly controlled. The melons are harvested only when they are perfectly ripe, i.e. with a contolled minimum of 12° Brix conferring the label of “excellence”. Hank-checked, measured and carefully packed in flat cartons, the melons are delivered in a maximum of 6 hours after picking and maintained at a temperature of between 9° and 13°C.

Today, to satisfy the impatience of amateurs of quality cantaloupe melons, VAL DE SERIGNY has created a new site for production in Spain. In the rich soil and sunshine of southern Spain VAL DE SERIGNY has developed a variety of melon baptized LA BELLE INDIENNE which ripens at the end of April and whose quality, flavor and perfume are comparable to the famous VAL DE SERIGNY melon.

Melons conditioned on our site of production in Morocco, arrive from fine March of French market, under mark MELONS and MARVELS.
Ever since King Charles VII began the culture of melons in France under the name Cantaloupe on his return from campaign in Italy in the 15th century, their popularity has never ceased to increase.

VAL DE SERIGNY is member of the club “DEMAIN LA TERRE”
“To meet needs of the gift without compromising the capacity of future generations to be answered theirs”

Do not create from attach the biodiversity, in general equilibrium of agro considered systems and natural ecosystems that they are of the Earth or aquatic.
A frame of reference is under way of validation.

As for any culture, to produce top quality melons you need knowledge and commitment, the right soil and… Mother Nature’s blessing. VAL DE SERIGNY’s philosophy and guideline for development is to deliver satisfaction, i.e. melons of irreproachable quality. The company’s reputation and continuing growth are evidence that they have succeeded.

VAL DE SERIGNY is member of the Labour union of the producers of High Poitou.