People
Louis Lucas: Originally from the Central Valley of California, Louis Lucas is one of California's premier grape growers. A proud graduate of Notre Dame, his partnership in the 1970's in Tepusquet Vineyards marked his name in the history books as one of the first commercial grape growers in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. His vast knowledge and viticultural expertise span over four decades making him a sought after speaker, consultant, and advisor.
Royce Lewellen: Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Royce Lewellen graduated from the University of Missouri and U.C. Berkeley's Boalt School of Law. A retired Superior Court Judge, businessman and community leader in Santa Barbara County, the courthouse complex in Santa Maria, CA was officially named the The Lewellen Justice Center in his honor. "The Judge" embarked on his latest venture in 1996 with renowned wine grape grower Louis Lucas. With their long time love of wine, Royce and Louis have set out to produce the finest wines in Santa Barbara County. Sadly, Royce passed away in September, 2020. He left behind a legacy for us to uphold as we move forward in the direction he set for us, pursuing excellence in the wines that we make, extending graciousness to the guests that we host, and serving this community that he loved with generosity. Royce's son Michael (below) continues in his father's stead.
Michael Lewellen: Royce Lewellen’s son Mike Lewellen became an owner of the company in 1999 and joined the company full-time in 2009. As President, Mike works with all departments; Marketing & Sales, Finance, Tasting Room and, of course, the winery.
Megan McGrath Gates: Megan was appointed winemaker for Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards in 2007. Having graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a degree in Soil Sciences, she earned her Certificate in Winemaking at U.C. Davis before working as an enologist for Flowers Vineyard & Winery on the Sonoma Coast, crafting Burgundy-style Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. As winemaker for Cahill Winery in Sebastopol, she had the opportunity to work with Sonoma, Mendocino and Napa Valley grapes, specializing in small lot Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Bourdeaux varietals, and Syrah.
