Meet Bryan and Michele Lucay, a couple who lived for tequila– their dogs, Cabo and Wabo, were even named after Sammy Hagar’s signature spirit. Their nights were filled with margaritas and good company, but wine was never on the radar. That was until they stumbled into the Ceja Family Vineyards, where they were hired to engrave the family’s logo in the tasting room.

Little did they know, Pedro Ceja’s warm smile and generous wine pour would shatter their tequila-only worldview, setting them on a path to discover the rich flavors and passion of winemaking.

In 2009, Bryan and Michele harvested their first grapes with family by their side, crushing them in their garage with laughter and a hand-crank crusher. This serendipitous journey led to the birth of Serendipity Cellars, now a boutique winery 15 years later. Producing 500 cases in the “Sh!t Shed,” the Lucays remain true to their core values: family, friends, and hands-on winemaking. Each harvest and bottling is a celebration, filled with storytelling and memory-making.

At Serendipity Cellars, the local climate and topography play a significant role in shaping grape growing and winemaking decisions. Situated in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Alluvial plain, the vineyards stretch across relatively flat terrain, with an elevation of approximately 80 feet. This proximity to the San Francisco Bay, specifically San Pablo Bay and Suisun Bay, brings a pronounced marine influence, moderating temperatures and impacting soil composition. The soils, primarily Rincon Clay Loam and Sorrento clay Loam, deposited from the surrounding hills and mountains, provide a unique terroir that the Lucays carefully consider when cultivating their grapes and crafting their wines.

Bryan Lucay’s winemaking style is centered on approachability, crafting wines that welcome newcomers to the world of wine. He eschews bold, high-tannin wines, instead focusing on fruit-forward flavors and balanced acidity that invite another sip. Influenced by his own palate, Lucay aims to create wines that are both enjoyable on their own and pair well with a variety of foods. By striking a balance between consistency and creativity, he ensures that each bottle is both true to the Serendipity Cellars style and uniquely expressive of the vintage. 

The Lucay’s enchantment with Vermentino began at Wilderotter Vineyards in Amador County, where they were immediately smitten by its unique charm. Finding it to be the perfect bridge between the crispness of Sauvignon Blanc and the richness of Pinot Gris, they knew they had to bring it to their own vineyard. Vermentino proved to be an ideal match for their climate, thriving with ease and generosity. As a low-maintenance variety in both the vineyard and cellar, it has become a favorite among their estate-grown grapes. The terroir of their vineyard brings out the full expression of Vermentino’s vibrant flavor profile, bursting with passion fruit, guava, and jack-fruit notes reminiscent of Juicy Fruit gum.

Serendipity Cellars played a collaborative role in the formation of the Contra Costa AVA, working alongside fellow members of the Contra Costa Wine Growers Association. As one of the pioneering wineries, they helped raise awareness and drive recognition for the region’s grape growers and wineries. Despite the challenges of securing fair prices for their grapes, the Lucays remain optimistic about the AVA’s potential, likening it to Napa Valley in the 1970s or Livermore and Lodi 25 years ago.  Grape growers in the Contra Costa AVA face significant challenges, including lower prices per ton compared to established AVAs. However, the Lucays believe that the region’s untapped potential offers endless opportunities for wineries and grape growers to diversify their products and revenue streams. By establishing a strong presence in the AVA, they hope to pave the way for others to follow.

Bryan’s passion for 1940s and 1950s Americana, from music to cars to pin-up art, inspired the unique artwork on Serendipity Cellars’ bottles. Reflecting the brand’s playful, nostalgic personality, the labels feature custom pin-up art of Lucay’s family members in quintessential American settings, evoking the joy and warmth of a visit to the winery. Adding an extra layer of depth, three special “give back” labels support local charities, with annual donations made to firefighters, military pilots, and motorcycle cops. By combining vintage flair with personal touches, Lucay has created a visual identity that is both eye-catching and meaningful, making every bottle a reflection of the winery’s values and charm.

The 2024 harvest has been exceptional, wrapping up on September 7th after a hot summer accelerated the season. With a philosophy that “the harvest controls us,” Bryan emphasizes the importance of balancing the vineyard to produce exceptional fruit.  And with the 2024 harvest now in the books, Serendipity Cellars is poised to create wines that will leave a lasting impression – a true reflection of his family’s legacy and the terroir they call home.

The wines featured in the Wine Recommendations section were provided by the winery for the purpose of review. The selection and tasting of these wines were independently conducted. No compensation or incentives were provided for inclusion in the story. As always, the top priority is to provide readers with informative reporting.

 

Wine Recommendations 

2023 Sauvignon Blanc- displays a vibrant, citrus-driven aroma, complemented by tropical fruit and floral hints. The palate offers excellent balance and tension, with flavors of white peach and grapefruit all framed by a crisp, citrus-infused acidity. The finish is long and persistent.

2023 Vermentino- aromatics of grapefruit, and nectarine with citrus flavors and mango notes on the palate with a vibrant impact and subtle mineral depth.

2021 Tempranillo- dark fruit, earthy and leathery notes define this wine, culminating in a smooth and dry finish.