Leading the Charge: Angelina Mondavi’s Defining Moment at Charles Krug
As the first woman to guide Napa Valley’s historic estate, Mondavi blends legacy, precision and a vineyard-first philosophy into a bold new era of winemaking
Angelina Mondavi is leading the charge at Charles Krug Winery, stepping into history as the first woman to guide one of Napa Valley’s most iconic estates.
“I never expected it,” she said. “I had to earn the right to be here.”
That path started early, long before harvests and blending trials.
“I grew up on the property, my world alway in the vineyards at the winery,” Angelina said. “I dont know anything different.”
But her journey took her beyond Napa, including time learning in Australia, and working outside the family business before returning. That’s part of the family ethos and how Charles Krug remains strong and vibrant.
It’s the family business and anyone in the family can work there, but you have to step away. Hone your craft elsewhere. Be beholden to a boss that’s not a grandfather, father or uncle.
That’s how a family business keeps from becoming stale and how Charles Krug is set up for decades to come.
“It took me 23 years to be accepted as a consulting winemaker,” Angelina said. “I don’t take that for granted. This is home for me.”
Now, the weight of legacy is real, though. As stewards of the previous generation, her father Marc and uncle Peter Jr., are preparing to step into brand ambassador roles, the time is now for her to rise.
“It’s my head on the chopping block if I screw something up,” Angelina said. “We have huge shoes to fill, and I put a lot of pressure on myself.”
But her approach is distinctly her own and is rooted in the vineyard.
