Cakebread Cellars names David Amadia as new CEO amid leadership changes in California wine industry

Cakebread Cellars, a well-known winery based in Napa Valley, has announced the appointment of David Amadia as its new chief executive officer. Amadia will take over from Mike Jaeger, who earlier this year revealed his plans to retire after seven years leading the company. The transition marks a significant leadership change for the family-owned winery, which is recognized for its premium wines and longstanding presence in California’s wine industry.

David Amadia brings extensive experience to his new role. Most recently, he served as president of Peju Winery, another California-based wine producer, where he spent the last two years overseeing operations and business development. Before joining Peju, Amadia worked at Ridge Vineyards for 17 years, including six years as president. His earlier career includes a stint as vice president for Canada and Latin America at Penfolds, the Australian wine brand that was then part of Southcorp Wines. During his time at Penfolds from 1995 to 2001, Amadia helped expand the brand’s reach in international markets.

At Cakebread Cellars, Amadia will be responsible not only for the flagship Napa Valley winery but also for managing Bezel, a brand focused on wines from California’s Central Coast, and Mullan Road Cellars, which operates in Washington State’s Royal Slope American Viticultural Area (AVA). The company’s portfolio reflects a growing trend among established wineries to diversify their offerings and expand into new regions.

Mike Jaeger leaves behind a legacy of growth and stability at Cakebread Cellars. In a statement reflecting on his tenure, Jaeger described his time at the winery as a highlight of his career. “It’s been an incredible ride,” he said. “I truly can’t imagine a better way to close out my career than calling Cakebread Cellars home for the past seven years – a true ‘mic drop’ moment.”

The leadership change comes at a time when several prominent figures in the California wine industry are stepping down. Last month, the Wine Institute, which represents California wineries, announced that its CEO Bobby Koch will retire at the end of this year. These transitions signal a generational shift in leadership across some of the state’s most influential wine organizations.

Cakebread Cellars was founded in 1973 and has built a reputation for producing high-quality Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and other varietals. The winery remains family-owned and continues to attract visitors to its Rutherford estate in Napa Valley. With Amadia at the helm, industry observers will be watching how Cakebread navigates evolving consumer preferences and increasing competition both domestically and abroad.

Amadia’s background in both domestic and international wine markets is expected to play a key role as Cakebread looks to strengthen its position in an industry facing challenges such as changing climate conditions, shifting consumer tastes and global economic uncertainty. The company has not disclosed specific plans for new initiatives under Amadia’s leadership but emphasized his track record of innovation and strategic growth.

The appointment is effective immediately. Amadia will work closely with the Cakebread family and management team during the transition period.