In 1998, John and Barbara Partridge realized that their ranch east of Paso Robles was perfectly suited for grape growing: it was set high atop the rolling hills at an elevation of 1200 feet; it enjoyed warm westerly breezes during the growing season; and it had seven beautiful hilltop acres with full sun exposure. Although novices at grape growing, the Partridges believed in their dream and the potential of the land. Armed with a little research and a lot of faith, they chose to plant six acres of Barbera grapes (because it was Barbara's namesake!) and one acre of Sangiovese.

The higher elevation was advantageous, as the Partridges suspected. The temperatures stay just a bit warmer fostering early bud break yet protecting from the risk of damage from late frosts. The winds and sun exposure, too, are beneficial. By planting the rows North to South and twelve feet apart, both wind and sun are effectively used to protect the fruit from mildew. Thus, the need for chemicals and sprays is reduced to a minimum. Also, the hot sun can make a shorter growing season for these Italian varietals and harvest can occur as early as August.

Rainfall, too, has an indisputable effect on the fruit. Even with drip irrigation to augment water requirements, the Vineyards' harvest varies widely with as many as 30 tons in wet years to as few as 12 tons in dryer years. Nevertheless, the Vineyards produce exceptionally consistent quality grapes to make award-winning wines. Partridge-Leigh Barbera has taken double gold, gold and silver medals in statewide and international competitions. This success has put the grapes in high demand with wineries competing for them. Current wineries producing Partridge-Leigh Barbera wines are:

The small Sangiovese Vineyard has a limited production and its harvests are sold exclusively to Chumeia Winery. The Sangiovese grapes produce a very high quality wine with a unique rich color. Because of its exceptional character, the wine sells out early and the prices are in the premium range.

(A note of interest for those wishing to know more about the Partridge-Leigh vines: The Barbera vines are #02 Cert-110R rootstock. There are approximately 2700 plants trellised on a quadrilateral system. The Sangiovese vines are #02-Cert/5BB rootstock. There are approximately 500 trellised on a quadrilateral system.)