Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) no. 1109/2013 of 5 November 2013 included this melon - Melone Mantovano IGP - in the register of protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications. It is grown in the provinces of Mantua, Cremona, Modena, Bologna and Ferrara. Over 2,500 hectares are given over to the production of melons, producing total sales in 2012 of over €70 million (for the Mantua area alone).
The following municipalities fall within the production area in the province of Mantua: Borgoforte, Carbonara di Po, Castellucchio, Cavriana, Ceresara, Commessaggio, Dosolo, Felonica, Gazoldo degli Ippoliti, Goito, Magnacavallo, Marcarla, Mariana Mantovana, Piubega, Poggio Rusco, Pomponesco, Quistello, Redondesco, Rivarolo Mantovano, Rodigo, Sabbioneta, San Benedetto Po, San Martino dall'Argine, Sermide and Viadana.
Varieties
The term can be used for melons with yellow, orange and even salmon pink flesh, provided they are of the Catalupensis or Reticulatus varieties of muskmelon. The former have smooth skin, are roundish and green-grey tending towards yellow; the latter are more oval, but have a reticulated skin (slice markings may or may not be evident).
Characteristics
The Mantuan Melon is effectively identified by its taste and specific smell, as stated in the specification: mushroomy smell combined with chopped watermelon, courgette and lime aroma, juicy flesh that is yellow-orange to salmon, particularly fibrous and consistent. It is refreshing and has antioxidant properties. It is rich in potassium and vitamins A and C.
Titbit: When bees pollinate the bright yellow flower of these melons, they produce quite a rare honey, with a very aromatic but delicate taste.
Tips:
Appetisers, smoothies, ice-cream, fruit salad. Of course, the most loved combination in Italy is 'prosciutto with melon', although using other cold cuts instead of the famous Parma ham is an excellent option, especially when the substitute is from the Mantua region!