Philippe Melka

Winemaker, Moone-Tsai Vineyards

Bordeaux-bred, and mentored by the world’s most revered wine masters, Philippe brings to winemaking a philosophy that is elegant in its simplicity, and bewitching to its beholders.

Charming yet humble, straightforward but genteel, Philippe is quick to credit the masterful influences of Delmas and Masclef from Haut-Brion; Moueix and Berrouet from Petrus; Paul Draper from Ridge; and Michel Rolland from Chateau Pasteur.

Notwithstanding Philippe’s disarming modesty, the imprint he has left wherever he has applied his “touch” is unmistakable. Having put the likes of Dominus, Hundred Acre, Bryant Family Vineyards and Dana Estates on the map for discerning Cabernet enthusiasts, the fact that Robert Parker named Philippe as one of the world’s top nine consulting winemakers is no coincidence.

Philippe is creating extraordinary wines for Moone-Tsai that bear the imprimatur of his celebrated winemaking style, and the winery’s core artisanal values; all revealed in the classic combination of distinctive vineyard, terroir and fruit. From this, Moone-Tsai proudly presents exceptional wines of concentrated elegance and finesse… beguilingly balanced with strength, power, and subtle exuberance.

Country born: France

Education: Degree in Geology: University of Bordeaux
Mentors: Delmas and Masclef from Haut-Brion; Moueix and Berrouet from Petrus; Paul Draper from Ridge; and Michel Rolland from Chateau Pasteur

Years in the wine industry: 15-20 years

Honors / Awards:
Robert Parker: "Top 9 Consulting Winemakers in the World"

Winemaking Philosophy:
Where possible, I minimize winemaking techniques in the cellar so I can create a wine that tells the story of the vineyard. In the end, it must be about the fruit.