News Release: 2/14/2025
Talley Vineyards Promotes Juliana "Juls" Neel to
Tasting Room Manager
(February 13, 2025; Arroyo Grande, CA) – Brian Talley, President and CEO of Talley Vineyards, a pioneering producer of estate-grown Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from California's San Luis Obispo Coast AVA, is pleased to announce the promotion of Juliana "Juls" Neel to Tasting Room Manager. In her expanded role, Neel will oversee all aspects of the winery's hospitality program, including private events, outbound sales initiatives, social media engagement, and daily tasting room operations at the estate's recently renovated facility.
Juliana "Juls" Neel
A Central Coast native with deep roots in the community, Neel joined Talley Vineyards in October 2021 as a Tasting Room Attendant, quickly advancing to Hospitality Lead before assuming her current position. Her rapid progression reflects both her exceptional leadership abilities and her authentic commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment for guests and staff alike.
"Juls embodies the warmth and genuine hospitality that defines the Talley Vineyards experience," says Brian Talley. "Her dedication to building meaningful connections with our guests while sharing our family's legacy has made her an invaluable member of our team. This promotion positions us to further enhance our visitor experience."
Born and raised in Santa Maria, CA, Neel brings a unique perspective to wine hospitality, drawing from her background in performing arts and community advocacy. Prior to joining Talley Vineyards, she pursued a degree in Political Science at Allan Hancock College and served as an intern for Santa Maria City Council, experiences that shaped her approach to building meaningful connections within the community.
"The San Luis Obispo Coast is an undiscovered gem where serious agriculture meets relaxed rural living," says Neel. "Having the opportunity to share the Talley family's legacy while creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed to explore and enjoy wine is incredibly rewarding.”
In her new role, Neel will continue to develop innovative tasting experiences that showcase Talley's estate wines while highlighting the distinctive character of the San Luis Obispo Coast region. Her focus on staff development and genuine hospitality aligns perfectly with Talley Vineyards' commitment to excellence and community engagement.
About Talley Vineyards
Spanning four decades, Talley Vineyards is a leader in estate-grown Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the San Luis Obispo Coast, Arroyo Grande Valley and Edna Valley AVAs. In 1982, Don and Rosemary Talley began planting wine grapes on hillside parcels of the family ranch, and in 1986 established the Talley Vineyards winery. Today, Talley Vineyards is led by their son, Brian Talley, third generation farmer and second generation vintner. As an ambassador for the region, Brian has played a pivotal role in elevating the Central Coast as a world-class wine region and was instrumental in establishing the San Luis Obispo Coast AVA. Rooted in a legacy of sustainability, the Talley family remains dedicated to making wines that showcase their seven estate vineyards. At the heart of the family philosophy lies a dedication to minimal intervention and sustainable practices, ensuring each bottle captures the pure essence of its estate vineyards.
Follow on Social Media:
Facebook: @talleyvineyards
Instagram: @talleyvineyards
Media Contact
Vieux Communications:
Elizabeth Glenn, elizabeth@vieuxcommunications.com
Sam Dependahl, sam@vieuxcommunications.com
