#United States #Napa Valley #Cakebread Cellars #David Amadia #Mike Jaeger

David Amadia Appointed CEO of Cakebread Cellars

On September 8, 2025, Cakebread Cellars, a renowned Napa Valley winery, announced the appointment of David Amadia as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Amadia steps into this leadership role following the retirement of Mike Jaeger, who has served the company for seven transformative years. This strategic move is seen as a pivotal moment for the winery as it looks to the future, guided by new vision and leadership.

David Amadia, who boasts a wealth of experience in the wine industry, is anticipated to oversee the ongoing strategic direction of Cakebread Cellars and its associated brands. These include the winery’s flagship Napa Valley operation, the Central Coast brand Bezel, and Mullan Road Cellars situated in Washington’s Royal Slope AVA. Chairman Dennis Cakebread expresses confidence in Amadia’s capabilities, citing his alignment with the company’s values and his industry experience.

Amadia previously held significant roles alongside some of the leading figures in the wine industry. His past 17 years spent at Ridge Vineyards culminated in his presidency there, where the winery garnered international acclaim, including a ten-year streak on Drinks International’s Most Admired Wine Brands list. His leadership at Ridge not only solidified his reputation but also positioned him as a valuable asset to Cakebread Cellars, known for its commitment to quality and sustainability.

“My experience has equipped me well for this role,” Amadia commented on his recent appointment. “Cakebread Cellars is a winery with a strong commitment to excellence and sustainability. I am excited to be part of its journey and look forward to collaborating with the talented team to advance our legacy.”

During Mike Jaeger’s tenure, he led the winery through significant growth, launching the Central Coast brand Bezel and driving sustainability initiatives that solidified Cakebread Cellars’ reputation as a forward-thinking estate. Jaeger will continue to contribute to the company in an advisory capacity, providing guidance as Amadia transitions into his new role.

“This has been an extraordinary chapter in my career, and I couldn’t be more proud of what we've achieved together at Cakebread Cellars. It feels like a perfect moment to pass the baton to someone as capable as David,” Jaeger stated, reflecting on his impactful seven years at the winery.

Cakebread Cellars has a long-standing tradition of excellence since its founding in 1973 by Jack and Dolores Cakebread. The family-owned winery has consistently focused on crafting high-quality wines while implementing cutting-edge sustainability practices. Over the decades, it has gained numerous accolades and awards that showcase its commitment to quality, hospitality, and innovative practices in winemaking.

As Amadia steps into his leadership role, he is poised to bring fresh insights and innovative strategies to Cakebread Cellars, ensuring the winery remains competitive and revered in the ever-evolving wine industry landscape. The next chapter for Cakebread Cellars looks promising under Amadia’s stewardship, with the potential for continued growth, sustainability, and a dedication to its rich heritage.