2021 Fingers Crossed Unanswered Prayers Grenache

Fingers Crossed, (formerly "FÆTHM") is the project from Nikolas Krankl, son of celebrated winemaker and creator of Sine Qua Non, Manfred Krankl. Nikolas and wife Julia began production in 2017 and released their first allocation in the spring of 2020. Describing their style as “…unabashedly Californian; sun-kissed wines that are decadent, perfumed, opulent and regal,” their offerings take some inspiration from SQN, including two different Syrahs, one of which is sourced just feet from the vineyard where Manfred produced SQN’s first Syrah ‘Queen of Spades’ in 1994.

Santa Barbara County is not an AVA, but a region just south of San Luis Obispo that includes the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Maria Valley appellations. Wine has been produced in the area since the 18th century when Spanish missionaries planted vineyards. It wasn’t until the 1990s, however, that producers focused on growing premier grapes for fine wines. During the 1990s more than 10,000 acres of vineyards were planted, and today there are nearly 20,000 acres of vineyards. The region received a big bump in recognition and prestige when the popular film “Sideways” was shot there in 2004. Because the region is affected by maritime weather, it is relatively cool climate makes it ideal for Chardonnay. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and an increasingly adventuresome number of varietals are also grown successfully in Santa Barbara County.

One of the most popular red varieties planted, it ripens late and prefers hot dry climates. It probably originated in Spain, where it is still widely grown. Grenache is best known for its use in Southern Rhone wines, including those of Chateauneuf-du-Pape.