Philippe Melka

Philippe Melka, a winemaker whose journey began in Bordeaux, France, took an unexpected turn when he enrolled in a wine course during his geology degree. Little did he know that this decision would shape his future. Under the guidance of renowned terroir specialist Professor Sequin, Melka explored the relationship between soil and wine quality, a fascination that persists to this day.

Melka’s quest for knowledge led him to various regions across the globe, including Napa Valley, Western Australia, Chianti in Italy, and back to Bordeaux. However, it was the astonishing diversity of terroirs in Napa Valley that captured his heart and opened new horizons for extraordinary wines.

Over the past 15 years, Melka has dedicated himself to winemaking in Napa Valley, serving as a consultant to esteemed estate wineries and co-proprietor of Melka Wines alongside his wife, Cherie. His training and influence from renowned personalities in the wine industry, such as Jean Delmas, Jean Philippe Masclef, Christian Moueix, Jean Claude Berrouet, Paul Draper, Daniel Baron, and Michel Rolland, have undoubtedly shaped his winemaking philosophy.

Melka believes that wine should be a reflection of the native soil, allowing the fruit from a remarkable vineyard to shine through, rather than imposing the artistry of the winemaker. His dedication to excellence earned him the prestigious title of Food & Wine magazine’s 2005 Winemaker of the Year and a humbling recognition as one of the top nine wine consultants in the world by Robert Parker.

With a passion that remains steadfast, Philippe Melka’s journey in winemaking continues, fueled by a profound connection with the land and an unwavering pursuit of excellence in the art of crafting remarkable wines.