The Team
Philippe Melka
Master Winemaker
French American Philippe Melka has earned his reputation as one of the world’s greatest winemakers. With a track record of creating magic for the luminaries of Bordeaux and Napa Valley, he has recently been named one of the top nine wine consultants in the world by Robert Parker, an honor that recognizes his pursuit of excellence in a crowded field.
Maayan Koschitzky
Director of Winemaking
Maayan has amassed an impressive winemaking resume spanning the vineyards of Israel to Napa Valley’s Screaming Eagle and Dalla Valle, working alongside some of the world’s top winemakers and among the most coveted terroirs in the world.
Rob Mondavi
Partner & Wine Consultant
A fourth-generation Napa Valley winemaker, Rob Mondavi’s immersion into the wine world began nearly four decades ago. The son of Isabel and Michael Mondavi, Rob, born in 1971, was raised in the Stag’s Leap district of Napa Valley and spent much of his childhood among the vines and barrels at Robert Mondavi Winery. Rob began early in the world of wine and worked in a variety of roles, commencing in the vineyards, then the family cellar and hospitality. Rob, along with his wife Lydia, now produce highly sought after wine brands of their own, as well for many notable wineries in Napa Valley.
Ricky & Lisa Novak
Managing Partners
With a Law Degree from Emory University, Ricky has spent his professional career working at the intersection of Real Estate, Tax and Private Equity. Together with his wife Lisa, they have been recognized and honored for their profound charitable contributions. As celebrated community advocates and active philanthropists, they are committed to serving important foundations such as: Pencils of Promise, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Alaqua Wildlife Refuge and Camp Southern Ground to name a few. Their vision is to grow their involvement in wildlife conservation through philanthropic endeavors as well as supporting like-minded organizations with similar goals.
Madeleine Houghton
Partner – CEO/COO
As an executive officer, Maddy has enjoyed a successful track record in the wine and spirits industry. Maddy brings her highly skilled talents to Menagerie with a deep understanding of operating and building both large-scale wine businesses as well as boutique sized production, purpose driven wine brands.
Colette Alderson
Partner – CMO
A veteran in the publishing industry, Colette served over 20 years as Executive Vice President at Robb Report, the global luxury lifestyle media brand where she specialized in developing marketing programs, live media experiences and brand strategy across multiple luxury verticals but her passion was working with the wine industry. Colette also served the Napa Valley Vintners Association and dedicated her efforts to support their charitable initiatives and fundraising efforts for over a decade.