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Tusk Estates

Tusk Estates

About Tusk Estates

Tusk Estates is a winery located in Oakville, Napa Valley, founded by partners Michael Uytengsu, Tim Martin, and Philippe Melka. The winery specializes in producing Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from premium hillside vineyards, with its first vintage released in 2008. Tusk Estates operates with a unique model, initially selling wines exclusively to customers who have a personal connection to one of the partners, which has helped maintain high demand despite limited production.

The estate spans approximately 52 acres on the eastern slopes of the Mayacamas mountains, known for its stunning views and proximity to other prestigious wineries. Although there is no winery on-site, Tusk wines are crafted at Wheeler Farms in St. Helena. The property features an exceptional wine cave used for private events rather than winemaking.

Philippe Melka, a renowned winemaker with extensive experience in Napa Valley, oversees the wine production. Tusk Estates produces two wines annually: the Tusk Cabernet Sauvignon and L'Orange. The winery supports various non-profit organizations and offers limited allocations through a waitlist, with a typical wait time of 7 to 10 years for new customers.

Accolades

Philippe Melka named one of top nine wine consultants in the world by Robert Parker

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Varietals

Cabernet SauvignonSauvignon Blanc

Visiting Tusk Estates

Tasting fee
Not listed
Reservations
Not listed
Tasting room
No public tasting room

When to visit Tusk EstatesRecently updated

Monday8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed

Good to know about Tusk Estates

No, Tusk Estates does not operate a public tasting room. It's a production-only or by-allocation label, so its wines are found through retail, restaurants, or a mailing list rather than an on-site visit.
Tusk Estates focuses on Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc. Signature bottles include Tusk vintage Cabernets (2013–2022); noted for complexity, depth, and aging potential (25+ years for select vintages). When booking a tasting, ask which current release best represents the estate's style.
Tusk Estates is in Oakville, CA, in the Napa Valley wine region. Confirm hours before visiting. Winery schedules vary seasonally.
Tusk Estates was established in 2008, giving the estate 18 years to develop its wine program and farming practices.
The winemaking at Tusk Estates is led by Philippe Melka. Visiting during special events or release weekends is often the best chance to meet the winemaking team and ask questions about specific vintages or techniques.
Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Saturday: Closed | Sunday: Closed. Hours may vary seasonally. Confirm by phone or on their website before visiting.
Philippe Melka named one of top nine wine consultants in the world by Robert Parker

Where to find Tusk Estates

Oakville, CA, United States of America