Talley Vineyards Don's Legacy Blend 2023
(Arroyo Grande Valley, California) - [VM 93]
Regular price $48.00 Sale price $46.99 Save $1.01
About the Winery:
Talley Vineyards is located in the San Luis Obispo Coast American Viticultural Area (AVA) which is recognized as the coolest AVA in the state of California due to its direct proximity to the cold Pacific Ocean. Within the San Luis Obispo Coast, there are two smaller AVAs, the Arroyo Grande Valley and the Edna Valley, and the winery owns vineyards and farms in both valleys. The cool climate of the area, coupled with calcareous clay and shaly loam soils, makes it ideally suited to grow Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Talley Vineyards’ specialties.
The story of Talley Vineyards began when Brian Talley's grandfather, Oliver Talley, began growing specialty vegetables in the Arroyo Grande Valley in 1948. In 1982, his son Don Talley, planted wine grapes on a rolling hillside parcel unsuitable for vegetable farming. Four years later, in 1986, he and his wife Rosemary founded Talley Vineyards.
About the Wine:
The 2023 Don’s Legacy Blend continues to honor Don Talley’s vision, capturing the essence of our family’s deep-rooted farming tradition in the Arroyo Grande Valley. Once a young boy picking beans in the fields, Don grew into a pioneer who saw the potential for world-class wines in this region. This estate-grown blend of 65% Grenache and 35% Syrah—crafted from the slopes of Rincon Vineyard where Don planted his first vines over 30 years ago—embodies that legacy with depth, character, and bold expression.
This is one of the most powerful wines we produce at Talley Vineyards. A wet winter and abundant rainfall shaped the 2023 vintage, resulting in wines that are both charming and approachable, yet structured and complex. Don’s Legacy Blend is a bold tribute to the land, the family, and the vision that built Talley Vineyards.
Tasting Notes
Aromas of blackberry, anise and black raspberry lead to flavors of black cherry, hickory and tobacco. The finish is spicy. Try this wine with Santa Maria Style BBQ Tri-Tip or Smoky Tempeh Sliders.
Ratings and Reviews
93 Points - Vinous Media:
"The 2023 Don's Legacy Blend is two-thirds Grenache and one-third Syrah. Peppery, floral and lifted, it delivers savory nuance in a light-bodied but chiseled framework. This definitely has a "California Chateauneuf" vibe. Chalky tannins and tingly blood orange acidity brighten the finish. I like this approach quite a bit." - Billy Norris (Aug 2025)