Bordeaux native Philippe Melka is a self-described soil nerd, who has always been intrigued by the intricacies of the land. He originally pursued a degree in Geology at the University of Bordeaux, however a winemaking class during his final year proved pivotal. It set him on a new course that would see him become one of the world’s most coveted winemakers, honing his artistry at prestigious estates including Château Haut Brion, Petrus, Dominus, Silver Oak and his own Melka Wines.
“When it came time to select a winemaker, there was never a question who it would be.”
David Grieve
Takes the Reigns
Winery owners David and Kathleen Grieve had long admired Philippe’s wines and his site-driven approach to winemaking. When it came time to hire a winemaker, they reached out to Philippe. For his part, Philippe was excited by the vineyard’s terroir and the opportunity to work with Lovall Valley fruit. In 2018, he took over as head winemaker for Grieve Family Winery, where he marries old world traditions with new world advancements to produce the winery’s limited production portfolio of profoundly expressive Grieve Family Estate and Double Eagle wines.