This Thursday, we’ll gather at Matchbook Wine Company for our Fall Reception — and what better time to share their story, passion, and place behind this special winery? Below is a deep dive into Matchbook’s roots in the Sacramento Valley, its importance in Northern California wine, and the characters and philosophy that make it unique.
Matchbook Wine Co. sits tucked in the gentle hills of northeastern Yolo County, just east of Napa, in a lesser-known but rising wine region: the Dunnigan Hills AVA.
The Giguiere family (John, Karl, Lane) are 5th generation farmers in this region, descendants of settlers who came to California from Quebec City in the 1850s in search of open agricultural land.
In the early 1980s, the family began experimenting with vineyards. Over time, they became advocates and pioneers for grape growing in this land. By 1993, thanks in part to their efforts, Dunnigan Hills was designated an American Viticultural Area (AVA).
That early vision involved risk — the region was not then known for wine. But what made it promising was its combination of rocky soils, Mediterranean climate, and strong diurnal temperature swings. The hills rising above the Sacramento Valley pull in Delta breezes; summer nights can cool dramatically, preserving acidity in the grapes.
After growing a successful wine enterprise (R.H. Phillips / Toasted Head) and eventually selling it, the Giguiere family reentered the wine business with fresh ambition. In 2005, they launched Matchbook Wine Company, rooted in their experience and a renewed focus on elevating this land.
Matchbook’s approach is a dance between tradition and experimentation. They use a mix of methods—from French oak foudres to concrete eggs, and modern trellising systems to regenerative farming techniques—to coax out consistent flavor, texture, and balance.
In 2022, Matchbook obtained the California Rules Certified Green seal, a third-party verification of sustainable farming practices. The winery now looks toward organic and regenerative certifications as part of its long-term commitment to both land and community.
The People Behind the Wine
A few names to know:
- John Giguiere (co-founder) — One of the driving forces in pushing the boundaries of what Dunnigan Hills can produce. His early ambition helped catalyze the region’s recognition.
- Lane Giguiere — A partner in both the vineyard and the vision. She works closely with John to shape the brand, experiment with new varietals, and keep the winery nimble.
- Karl Giguiere — Focuses on vineyard operations, helping steward soil health, plantings, and farm innovation.
- Dan Cederquist — Head winemaker, bringing technical skill, creative energy, and an ability to respond to each vintage’s unique challenges.
Together, they’re working to balance identity, quality, and sustainability — all while telling a story that’s rooted in place.
What Makes Their Wines Stand Out
A few defining features of Matchbook wines:
- A sense of place: Because they work in a region still less heralded than Napa or Sonoma, Matchbook leans into what Dunnigan Hills offers. They don’t try to force a “classic” Napa style; they lean into what their land, climate, and soils want to produce.
- Variety & daring: They grow many varietals (though red Rhône and Iberian grapes like Tempranillo are strong fits) and experiment with new clones and blends.
- Artistic packaging: Their wine labels tend to be bold, creative, and expressive — signaling that they are as much about presentation and identity as they are about flavor.
- Balancing tradition & innovation: They use old-school techniques (oak aging, terroir sensibility) and newer approaches (concrete, regenerative farming) in tandem.
Because Matchbook pushes the idea that quality wine doesn’t have to come only from the “classic” AVAs, they help broaden the narrative of Northern California wine. They highlight how under-the-radar regions — like Dunnigan Hills — can produce serious, characterful wines.
By prioritizing sustainability, regeneration, and experimentation, they also serve as stewards: they’re not just extracting from the land, but working with it. Their commitment to third-party certification (and eventual organic/regenerative ambition) is a sign that they’re thinking long-term.
Hosting our Fall Reception at Matchbook allows us to connect intimately with a winery that’s not just a backdrop — it’s part of the story we want to tell. As guests wander the vineyards, sip the wines, and engage with the space, they’ll also be stepping into the narrative of land, legacy, and creative ambition.
