It's an honor just to be nominated

Talley Vineyards was the only San Luis Obispo County winery to take home honors in Sunset magazine's annual wine awards.

Its 2005 Rincon Vineyard Chardonnay ($40) was the magazine's pick for beset Special Occasion ($30-$50) White.

"Rich, toasty apple-pie aromas are followed by fresh lemon-custard flavors spiked with minerals and lemon zest on a long finish," the magazine wrote.

A number of other local wines, however, were nominated, a testament to their quality and flavor even if they did not make the final cut. Here's a look at the finalists from San Luis Obispo County.

I think it's worth noting that the county's wines made a strong appearance in the more affordable categories, reflecting the value of the wines made in this area compared to others. I also think it's worth mentioning, Sunset, that none of the judges were from this region...

STEAL OF THE YEAR ($15 and under) - WHITE
Edna Valley Vineyard, 2005 Paragon Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc ($15)
Edna Valley Vineyard, 2005 Paragon Vineyard Chardonnay ($12)
Firestone Vineyard, which this year opened a tasting room in Paso Robles, 2005 Riesling ($12)

STEAL OF THE YEAR ($15 and under) - RED
Peachy Canyon, 2005 "Incredible Red" Zinfandel ($11)
J. Lohr, 2004 South Ridge Vineyard Syrah ($15)
EOS Estate Vineyards Novella label, 2004 "Synergy" red blend ($14)
Treana Winery's Liberty School label, 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon ($14)

GOOD VALUE ($15-30) - WHITE
Alban Vineyard, 2005 Viognier 2005 ($24)
Tablas Creek, 2005 "Côtes de Tablas Blanc" white Rhône blend ($20)
Treana, 2004 Mer Soleil Vineyard white Rhône blend ($25)
Wolff Vineyard, 2005 Mount Eden Chardonnay ($18)
Talley, 2005 Oliver's Vineyard Chardonnay ($26)

GOOD VALUE ($15-30) - RED
Edna Valley Vineyard, 2005 Paragon Vineyard Pinot Noir ($20)
Eberle Winery, 2004 Steinbeck Vineyard Syrah ($20)
Edna Valley Vineyard, 2004 Syrah ($16)

SPECIAL OCCASION ($30-50) - RED
Domaine Alfred, 2004 Chamisal Vineyards Pinot Noir ($38)
McPrice Myers, 2004 Les Galets Vineyard Syrah 2004 from Arroyo Grande Valley ($32)

DEEP POCKET (over $50) - RED
Alban Vineyards, 2004 "Reva" Syrah ($74)