Bill MacIver plays a key role in forming the United Winegrowers of Sonoma County. Matanzas Creek utilizes 100-percent malolactic fermentation in its Chardonnay for the first time. 1988 Production reaches 28,000 cases. New tasting room opens. Production reaches 31,000 cases.
Extensive landscaping is started on the winery grounds.
Matanzas Creek's 1989 Merlot wins Gold Medal at the prestigious international competition, The Wine Challenge. 1993 Matanzas Creek releases its 1990 Journey Chardonnay to critical acclaim across the country. It sells out upon release. Thirty more acres on the Matanzas Creek estate are prepared for new vineyards, with 17 acres being planted to Merlot and the rest to experimental varietals. The Matanzas Creek Estate Lavender product line is established.