Gadsby's Tavern to Host Civil War Wine Dinner in October

History buffs and foodies, mark your calendars. You’ll have the chance to savor both Civil War history and Virginia wines with a menu inspired by the 19th century next month at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum’s Civil War Wine Dinner.

The event will take place Friday, Oct. 3. A five-course meal with wines from Gray Ghost Vineyards will begin at 7 p.m. at the Museum, 134 North Royal St., and continue downstairs at Gadsby’s Tavern Restaurant in the former City Hotel.

Here’s a peek at the evening’s menu, with accompanying wines, from the Gray Ghost Vineyards Web site:

Served in the Tavern Assembly Room
Selection of beef in puff pastry, spinach and goat cheese quiche
Served with assorted cheeses
2013 Gewurztraminer

Served in the City Hotel Dining Room
First Course
Seasonal market salad tossed in a light vinaigrette
2013 Chardonnay

Second Course
Apple glazed sliced duck breast
2012 Ranger Reserve

Third Course
Filet of beef wrapped in a puff pastry with a mushroom sauce
Served with sauteed beets and corn muffins
or
Mix of seasonal sauteed vegetables
Served with herbed barley and corn muffins
2012 Cabernet Sauvignon (new release!)

Final Course
Chocolate Charlotte Russe with a custard filling
2012 Adieu

The Gray Ghost wines will have a Civil War spirit, coming from an area where “The Gray Ghost” Confederate Col. John Singleton Mosby and his men operated during the war. Dinner guests will also discover the tavern’s importance during the Civil War, its connection to the Restored Government of Virginia, and what life was like for journalists, Union officers and others who stayed there.

Tickets are $100 inclusive per person, and reservations are required. A vegetarian entrée option is available with advance notice. Tickets can be purchased through http://shop.alexandriava.gov or by calling the Museum at (703) 746-4242.

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Gadsby’s Tavern was the center of social and political life in Alexandria and the new Federal City of Washington. The tavern served as the premier gathering place for residents – including George Washington – and visitors to eat, drink, learn, and influence history.

PHOTO of Gadsby’s Tavern interior