2022 Faethm Fingers Crossed White

Chardonnay-dominated but including 26.9% Roussanne and 3.6% Marsanne, all of which spent 22 months in 85% new oak, the 2022 White Wine Life And Death has a rocking nose of ripe stone fruits, toasted almonds, fresh croissant, and white flowers. This carries to a medium to full-bodied, gorgeously textured, seamless white that has perfect overall balance, a rich, opulent mouthfeel, perfectly integrated acidity and oak, and a finish that won't quit. It is best enjoyed over the coming decade. Drink 2025-2035. Run by Nicolas and Julia Krankl (Nicolas is the son of Sine Qua Non's Manfred Krankl), Fingers Crossed continues to establish itself as one of California's top estates. It's important to realize that these are not Sine Qua Non copycats. They have their own style, which leans slightly more Old World, with notable stem influence and elegance, while still delivering serious California fruit. The lineup includes two whites and two reds, with the names changing each year. The Brain Teaser wines are barrel samples (2023s) that should be bottled soon, while the Life and Death wines are the finished 2022s. Both the white and red blends incorporate Rhône varieties, with the white blend now largely driven by Chardonnay, alongside Roussanne and Marsanne. The goal is to produce the finest white possible, not match some predetermined blend. Fruit sources include Bien Nacido, Stolpman, Alta Mesa, Sanger, and Rancho Boa Vista, and they've also acquired some old Sine Qua Non parcels. Production remains tiny, though they've been able to pick up additional parcels in top vineyards, so I expect modest growth going forward. These are consistently world-class wines that show remarkable balance between richness and elegance. If you want them, get on the mailing list.