Vintner Dinner at Charlotte City Club
featuring Melka Estates & Winery | April 16, 2026

Charlotte Wine + Food Week presented by Truist held a vintner dinner at the Charlotte City Club featuring the exceptional wines of Melka Estates & Winery. Special guest Cherie Melka, Proprietor & Vintner of Melka Estates & Winery, guided patrons through a curated journey of these iconic wines. Each selection was thoughtfully paired with a multi-course menu expertly crafted by Chef Michael Gardner of Charlotte City Club.

Thanks to the Charlotte Wine + Food Board Member host for the evening, Jim Tietjen.

Featured wines included: 2020 Melka Majestique Syrah | Paso Robles, 2019 Melka Mekerra Merlot | Knights Valley, 2020 Melka Majestique | Saint-Émilion, 2021 Melka Metisse Martinez Vineyard | Napa Valley, 2019 Melka Mekerra Proprietary White | Knights Valley.

A brief live auction was held at the end of dinner including: a VIP Experience’s to Melka Estates & Winery for Six (6) - which the donors generously doubled! Through the generosity of our patrons, the auction raised $16,000!

All proceeds benefited Beds for Kids, Digi-Bridge, Families Forward Charlotte, and Wayfinders.

Photo Credits: Josh Bannen Photo