Pain-Perdu translates to “lost bread” — referring to the dish that takes forgotten, or overlooked, stale bread and transforms it into a beautiful, delicious dessert — and Fabien Castel’s Pain-Perdu project is inspired by that dish. After working side-by-side with Adam Tolmach at Ojai Vineyard for over two decades, Fabien established Pain-Perdu in 2023 when he partnered with three land stewards — three groups of like-minded and passionate wine professionals — with the ambition to explore Santa Barbara County’s untapped potential of terroir, original micro-climates and unique geologic influences. Fabien works with classic Burgundian varietals Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from three esteemed vineyard sites: Rancho San Julian in Santa Barbara County and Bentrock Vineyard and Drum Canyon Vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills.

Fabien's Rancho San Julian Chardonnay is crafted with grapes sourced from the 10-acre Rancho San Julian vineyard in western Santa Barbara County, which is composed of alluvial-clay soil. This Chardonnay pours a brilliant light gold with pale reflections of light green. On the nose, the wine presents intoxicating aromas of ripe orchard fruits tinged with sea spray and a wisp of smoke. The palate is lean, crisp and invigorating with fresh fruit flavors of green apple and pears complemented with hints of toasted almonds and a lively acidity. The textured mid-palate leads to a long, vibrant and refreshing finish. Enjoy with sushi, mushroom risotto or roasted chicken.