Brian Talley Named 2024 San Luis Obispo County

Agriculturist of the Year

We are thrilled to announce that Brian Talley, third-generation farmer, second-generation vintner, and owner of Talley Vineyards and Talley Farms, has been honored as the “2024 San Luis Obispo County Agriculturist of the Year.” The award ceremony, held on July 18th at the renowned Cattlemen and Farmers Day event at the California Mid State Fair, brought together leaders and families from the region’s agricultural communities. Presented by a committee of the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau, San Luis Obispo County CattleWomen, and San Luis Obispo County Cattlemen’s Association, this prestigious award recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding achievement within the agricultural industry and exemplify a dedication to advancing San Luis Obispo County’s rich farming legacy.

“This recognition reflects the collective passion of our farming community, and it is truly humbling and inspiring to receive this award,” says Brian Talley. “Our success is nurtured by the soil of this extraordinary region and by the unwavering passion of the farmers and viticulturists who have dedicated themselves to elevating San Luis Obispo County as a leader in sustainable agriculture and viticulture.”

Having been involved with Talley Vineyards since its inception in the early 1980s, and serving as its leader for over three decades, Brian has played a pivotal role in shaping the Central Coast wine industry. Under his guidance, Talley Vineyards has established itself as an internationally respected producer of expressive and energetic Chardonnay and Pinot Noirs that showcase the unique character of our estate vineyards. Today, Talley Vineyards farms grapes across 129 acres of vines in seven estate vineyards within the San Luis Obispo Coast AVA. A permanent crew of 15 full-time workers tends to the vineyards year-round, allowing for a deep understanding of each site and the ability to react quickly to the vines’ needs. Our estate-grown wines have garnered significant critical acclaim for their vibrant acidity, elegant complexity, and age-worthy structure. Director of Viticulture and Winemaking Eric Johnson oversees production, using native yeasts and individually fermenting and aging each vineyard block for a total of over 100 wine lot components every year. Many of Talley’s single-vineyard wines are primarily sold direct-to-consumer and at our tasting room in Arroyo Grande, while our Estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have broader distribution across the United States and abroad.

Beyond Brian’s contributions to viticulture, he has emerged as a passionate advocate for holistic agricultural practices and community development. He played an instrumental role in establishing the San Luis Obispo Coast AVA in 2022, serving as a unifying force for wineries and vineyards stretching from San Simeon to Nipomo. Brian has also championed farm-to-table initiatives and supported numerous community organizations through the Marianne Talley Foundation. Always with an eye to community, in 2004, the Talley family formed the Fund for Vineyard and Farm Workers as a means of providing grants to nonprofit organizations supporting San Luis Obispo County agricultural workers. Additionally, Brian serves as a current director of AgWest Farm Credit, the agricultural representative on the San Luis Obispo County Zone 3 Flood Control District Advisory Committee, former president of the San Luis Obispo Coast Wine Collective, past treasurer of the San Luis Obispo Coast AVA Committee, co-founder and past chairman of World of Pinot Noir, and a former board member of the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce.

“Brian Talley exemplifies the spirit of innovation and stewardship that defines our agricultural community,” said Paul E. Clark, Executive Director of the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau. “His visionary approach to winemaking, coupled with an unwavering commitment to sustainable farming practices and community engagement, has not only elevated Talley Vineyards but has significantly contributed to positioning San Luis Obispo County as a beacon of agricultural excellence on the global stage.”

Cheers to supporting local agriculture!