Fingers Crossed

Más información sobre Fingers Crossed

A project born from experience, not theory

Fingers Crossed is the project of Nikolas and Julia Krankl in the Ojai Valley, California. Its story does not begin in a winery, but in the world of gastronomy, coffee, and creativity. Nik grew up in a culinary and bakery-driven environment, influenced by figures such as Nancy Silverton, while Julia developed her background in the artistic and academic world.

Before entering the wine industry, both had already built careers in other fields, which decisively shapes their approach to the project: independence, strong personal criteria, and absolute attention to detail.

From coffee to wine: a natural shift toward precision

Nikolas Krankl’s path runs through the specialty coffee world, where he became a barista champion and consultant. That pursuit of precision, extraction, and balance translates directly into his vision of wine.

His later training in viticulture and winemaking alongside key figures from the Rhône and California consolidates the idea of creating something personal, with a clearly defined identity.

Minimal production, maximum obsession with quality

Fingers Crossed produces approximately 1,900 cases per year, placing it firmly in the realm of true micro-production.

The philosophy is clear: work exclusively with exceptional vineyard sites in Santa Barbara County such as Bien Nacido, Stolpman, and Sanford & Benedict, and craft wines without compromising on raw material quality.

Every decision in the winery is focused on preserving vineyard identity and vintage expression.

A style between California and the Rhône

The wines of Fingers Crossed show a recognizable style:

they are intense, sun-driven, and opulent, yet balanced, with a surprising sense of structural lightness.

Syrah is the central grape of the project, interpreted through a combination of Californian ripeness and Northern Rhône sensitivity. The result is perfumed, deep wines with strong aging potential.

Art as part of the wine

Each vintage of Fingers Crossed features a completely different visual identity.

Nikolas and Julia personally design the labels and packaging, using techniques ranging from photography to engraving and collage.

The wine is not conceived as an isolated product, but as a complete narrative piece where image and content evolve together every year.

Critical acclaim and cult production

Despite its short history, Fingers Crossed has received outstanding scores from critics such as James Suckling, Jeb Dunnuck, and Antonio Galloni, including perfect scores for some Syrah vintages.

Its limited production and high demand make the wines hard to find, reinforcing its status as a cult project in the new Californian wine scene.

Fingers Crossed at Coalla Gourmet

Fingers Crossed is part of the Coalla Gourmet selection for its ability to combine intensity, precision, and artistic expression in a single bottle.

This is not an everyday wine. It is a wine of moments, memory, and exploration — a deeply personal interpretation of Californian Syrah with the soul of a great wine.