Melka

Melka Wines

Mastering the Art of Fine Winemaking

Melka Wines embodies decades of passion, expertise, and dedication from Philippe and Cherie Melka. Established in 1996, the winery symbolizes excellence in Napa Valley winemaking. It combines traditional techniques with modern innovation to create exceptional wines. Philippe Melka, a Bordeaux-born oenologist, and Cherie Melka, a skilled geologist, unite their talents in this endeavour. Together, they craft wines that honour the land and showcase a deep respect for terroir.

Philippe’s journey began in Bordeaux, where he trained at prestigious estates like Château Haut-Brion and Château Pétrus. Seeking new challenges, he moved to Napa Valley in 1991 and quickly made his mark as a consulting winemaker for top wineries. Drawing on his background in soil studies and his deep understanding of viticulture, Philippe partnered with Cherie to establish Melka Wines.

Together, Philippe and Cherie focused on producing limited-production wines that showcase the nuances of Napa’s diverse appellations. Melka Wines has earned widespread acclaim, receiving top scores and accolades from leading critics and publications. Renowned wine critic Robert Parker has described Philippe Melka as one of the world’s finest winemakers. Many Melka wines have consistently achieved ratings of 95 points or higher, with some earning perfect 100-point scores. The winery’s excellence has positioned it among the elite in Napa Valley and beyond.

The Collections

As co-proprietors and winemakers for Melka Estates, Philippe and Cherie produce four distinct brands that reflect their philosophy of soil driven wines: Métisse from Napa Valley, Mekerra from Sonoma Valley, Majestique from sites around the world and CJ, also from Napa Valley.

The Métisse series, which includes flagship wines like Jumping Goat and La Mekerra Vineyard, exemplifies elegance and complexity, often blending Cabernet Sauvignon with other Bordeaux varietals. The Majestique collection features single-varietal expressions from top vineyard sites across California, including Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Grenache.

Mekerra wines, named after Cherie’s ancestral ties to North Africa, originate from high-elevation vineyards in Knights Valley. These wines showcase the purity of Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot in a distinctive cool-climate style. The CJ collection, named after their children, offers approachable and vibrant wines that remain true to the Melka philosophy of excellence.

At Melka Wines, precision and artistry drive every aspect of production. Philippe and Cherie personally oversee every step, from vineyard selection to blending, ensuring that each bottle tells a story of its origins. Melka Wines represents a blend of tradition and innovation, delivering wines that embody elegance, power, and a profound sense of place. For wine lovers, Melka Wines offers not just exceptional quality but a journey into the heart of Napa Valley’s finest winemaking.

1% for The Planet

Melka Estates has proudly joined 1% for the Planet, committing to contribute at least one percent of their gross revenue annually. Moreover, they support environmental organizations that align with their values, including those addressing climate change, protecting marine ecosystems, and conserving wildlife. Through this initiative, they demonstrate their dedication to creating a positive environmental impact.