Philippe and Cherie Melka, co-proprietors of Melka Wines, together share a passion and love for fine wines and a dedication to a simple, singular goal; to produce a high quality, limited production of fine wines. Philippe, born and trained in Bordeaux, is winemaking consultant to several of Napa Valley's premium wineries. Cherie, a long-time Californian, has pursued her career in the wine industry since 1988 as a trained enologist at some of California's greatest wineries.
The Melka's commitment to the highest quality, brought them to the innovative idea of crafting their own family wines by blending small portions of the annual production of Philippe's select winery clients. A long lasting and symbiotic relationship resulted with those vintners who share the Melka's commitment to exceptional quality wines. Philippe's world-class reputation as winemaker and soil specialist has been solidified by the continued success of his client's wines. As a natural evolution of his work, the Melkas found the timing ripe for producing their own labels, Metisse and CJ. As with their wines, the Melkas philosophy is balance and not excess.
Cherie and Philippe share the belief that the "wine must tell the story of the native soil". Through Melka Wines, Cherie and Philippe enjoy a freedom to nurture and blend each varietal and vineyard lot. The Melka's pursuit of excellence and balance in their wines is equaled only by their dedication to exceptional quality.
