WINE & CULINARY
PHILIPPE MELKA

Named one of the world’s top nine winemakers by Robert Parker, Philippe Melka is widely acclaimed for his profound impact on the wine industry. He is one of Napa’s most highly respected winemakers and consultants, and he has also consulted for wineries in other regions, including Bordeaux, Tuscany, and Australia. Known for his ability to blend traditional French winemaking techniques with modern practices, Melka possesses an understanding of soil composition and structure that allows him to select vineyard sites with precision. He is an advocate for sustainable viticulture practices, and he encourages the use of organic and biodynamic farming methods among the wineries for which he consults. Born in Bordeaux, France, Melka’s early interest in the science of winemaking led him to earn a degree in Geology from the University of Bordeaux, followed by a master’s degree in Agronomy and Enology. His winemaking career began with formative internships at prestigious Bordeaux estates such as Château Haut- Brion and Domaine Jean-Pierre Moueix & Christian Moueix legendary Château Petrus, that led to Melka working for the Moueix-owned Dominus in California in 1991. In 1995, Melka established his own consulting firm, Atelier Melka, for which he has become a sought- after consultant, renowned for his ability to create exceptional wines that reflect both traditional techniques and innovative practices. His consulting portfolio includes a wide array of prestigious wineries such as Hundred Acre, Roy Estate, Moone Tsai Wines, ADAMVS, Lail Vineyards, and Tusk Estates, to name just a few. His work is particularly noted for enhancing the quality and reputation of these wineries, often leading their wines to receive high scores and accolades from critics and wine enthusiasts. In addition to his consulting work, Melka and his wife Cherie established their own wine label, Melka Estates in 1996. The brand features several distinct labels, including Métisse, Mekerra, Majestique, and CJ, each representing different vineyard sources and winemaking styles and each garnering critical acclaim. Melka is perhaps best known for his expertise with Bordeaux varietals, especially Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot & Sauvignon Blanc.