This Thursday, we’ll gather at Matchbook Wine Company for our Fall Reception — and what better time to share the story behind this special winery? Below is a deeper look at Matchbook’s origins in the Sacramento Valley and the people and philosophy that make it unique.
Matchbook Wine Co. sits tucked in the hills of northeastern Yolo County, just east of Napa, in a lesser-known but rising wine region: the Dunnigan Hills.
The Giguiere family (John, Karl and Lane) are fifth-generation farmers, 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 dramatic swings between hot daytime and cool nighttime temperatures. The hills above the Sacramento Valley pull in Delta breezes, creating cool nights that help preserve 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, bringing their experience and a renewed focus on elevating this land.
Matchbook’s approach is a dance between tradition and experimentation. They draw on a mix of methods, including French oak foudres, concrete eggs, modern trellising systems and 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) — A driving force behind Dunnigan Hills’ rise as a respected wine region.
- Lane Giguiere — A partner in both the vineyard and the vision, helping shape the brand and experiment with new varietals.
- Karl Giguiere — Oversees vineyard operations, stewarding soil health, plantings and farm innovation.
- Dan Cederquist — Head winemaker, blending technical skill and creative energy to shape each vintage.
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:
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A sense of place: Rather than chasing a Napa style, Matchbook leans into what Dunnigan Hills naturally produces.
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Variety & daring: A wide range of varietals thrive here, especially Rhône and Iberian grapes like Tempranillo.
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Artistic packaging: Bold, creative labels reflect a winery that values identity as much as flavor.
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Tradition & innovation: Classic techniques meet modern approaches, from oak aging to regenerative farming.
Because Matchbook pushes the idea that quality wine doesn’t have to come only from traditional wine-growing regions, they help expand the map of Northern California wine. They highlight how under-the-radar places like Dunnigan Hills, can produce serious wines full of character.
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 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.
