Trefethen Family Vineyards has named Hailey Trefethen president, marking the third generation of family leadership at the Napa Valley winery since its founding nearly six decades ago.
This transition has been a decade in the works. Her parents, founders John and Janet Trefethen, turned over daily management to the professional team, led by Jon Ruel, and the children in 2015–2019. Ruel left the winery at the end of 2023, shifting to president of Early Mountain Vineyards in Virginia the following year.
Raised on the winery’s Hillspring Vineyard, Hailey Trefethen, 39, early on took on vineyard and cellar tasks, from giving informal tours to assisting with pre-harvest work, according to the announcement. She formally joined the business as a vineyard intern in 2004 and returned in 2008 after college, advancing through roles spanning farming, production, hospitality and marketing.
“Leading Trefethen is an incredible honor,” she said in the news release. “This property has shaped my life from the very beginning. I am deeply grateful to my family and our team for the trust they have placed in me.”
Trefethen has also led sustainability initiatives, contributing to certifications including Napa Green Vineyard and Napa Green Winery, and recognition such as the California Green Medal Environment Award. She additionally oversaw restoration efforts of the 1886 historic winery building following the 2014 Napa earthquake.
She has held leadership roles with Napa Valley Vintners, Napa Green and Napa Valley Grapegrowers.
Her 43-year-old brother, Lorenzo Trefethen, is co-chair of the board, which also includes their parents, who started the winery in 1968. Their grandparents, Gene and Katie Trefethen, were the inspiration for acquiring the estate property.
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