Fingers Crossed Wine

In the heart of the California Central Coast, where vineyards weave through landscapes with an artistic touch, Fingers Crossed Wines emerges as a testament to passion, family heritage, and a commitment to producing exceptional wines. Led by Nik and Julia Krankl, Fingers Crossed Wines brings together a rich tapestry of innovation, creativity, and resilience. Nik Krankl's connection to the world of wine runs deep, rooted in his upbringing as the son of the renowned Manfred Krankl, the mastermind behind Sine Qua Non.

The Krankl Legacy

Nik Krankl's connection to the world of wine runs deep, rooted in his upbringing as the son of the renowned Manfred Krankl, the mastermind behind Sine Qua Non. Art and winemaking are not just professions for Nik; they are ingrained in his very essence. This familial tie is reflected in the captivating, original artwork labels adorning each bottle of Fingers Crossed Wines—a nod to the Sine Qua Non family of wines. The thematic naming of each vintage further adds a layer of storytelling and character to their creations.

Vinous Journey

The journey of Fingers Crossed has been a fascinating one, marked by growth and a commitment to excellence. From the inaugural 2017 vintage under the "Faethm" label to the rebranded Fingers Crossed in 2018, Nik and his Harvard-trained doctor wife Julia have continuously evolved, expanding their fruit sources, production size, and refining their winemaking expression with each passing year.
Fingers Crossed Wines has earned its place among the rising stars. Respected critics like Jeb Dunnuck, Lisa Perotti Brown, and Antonio Galloni have bestowed praise upon the meticulously crafted, small-production wines that Nik and Julia Krankl bring to fruition. The rarity of these wines makes them elusive gems, challenging to find but unquestionably worth the pursuit for enthusiasts seeking a taste of Rhône Valley magic in California.

“Stained-Hand-Approach”

Nik and Julia’s wines mirror Sine Qua Non's commitment to sourcing and blending fruit from growers in the Santa Barbara County area, with a distinct focus on Rhône varieties. They bring a unique philosophy to their craft, that they affectionately term the "stained hand approach." For them, winemaking is an art that requires hands-on dedication and a commitment to quality over quantity. Located in the suburban neighborhood of Oak View, the winemaking process unfolds within a converted garage. Despite its unassuming location, this garage is a hub of creativity, fully equipped with insulation, air-conditioning, tanks, barrel storage units and a concrete crush pad in the backyard for grape reception and sorting. This hands-on approach echoes the beginnings of Sine Qua Non, showcasing Nik and Julia's dedication to crafting wines that encapsulate the essence of the region.

The Wines – An Exciting Vintage

In 2021, a significant development unfolded as Fingers Crossed Wines welcomed new blocks at Bien Nacido Vineyard into their winemaking repertoire. These blocks, formerly destined for Sine Qua Non, have found a new home with Nik and Julia. Despite the challenges of 2021, Fingers Crossed Wines flourished, benefiting from a cooler vintage in Santa Barbara County. Nik describes the patience required for ripeness in 2021, a stark contrast to the heat spikes of the previous year. The wines from Fingers Crossed, sourced from Bien Nacido and Sanford and Benedict vineyards, remain untainted by smoke, a testament to the careful selection of vineyards in regions untouched by wildfires.
While the vineyards may change, the approach to winemaking remains constant at Fingers Crossed. The meticulous attention to detail involves small, nuanced changes that adapt to the unique characteristics of each vintage. According to Nik, the vintage itself is the most undeniable source of influence on their wines, shaping the narrative in ways that cannot be altered.

Wines That Speak Volumes

In the realm of Fingers Crossed Wines, artistry, heritage, and a dedication to quality converge, creating a portfolio of wines that speak volumes about the California Central Coast and the possibility of crafting stunning Rhône-style wines. As Nik and Julia Krankl continue to craft bright, vibrant expressions with signature generosity and plush textures, Fingers Crossed Wines stands as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and the enduring spirit of family winemaking.