Sipping Away Summer at Goodstone
There is something undeniably magical about the Goodstone Inn & Restaurant in Middleburg, Virginia. Nestled in the heart of hunt country, this charming estate captures the essence of Virginia’s countryside elegance. With its classic style, warm wooden interiors, and picturesque surroundings, Goodstone Inn is the perfect blend of refined luxury and rustic charm. It was the ideal setting for their "Last Sips of Summer" dinner event, a night dedicated to celebrating the vibrant flavors of rosé wine and the summer's bounty of tomatoes.
Always looking for a reason to dress up, I slipped into a lovely, sage-green linen dress from Aavelle, and my husband and I were whisked away into an evening that felt timeless and intimate. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with the sparkling warmth of rosé wine in hand. Its effervescence set the tone for what would be an extraordinary dining experience. We mingled with other couples during the cocktail hour, savoring a variety of tomato-inspired hors d’oeuvres that teased our palates with what was to come.
As the sun began to dip behind the rolling hills of Middleburg, we were led into the conservatory. It was dressed to perfection—soft lighting, elegant florals, and a roaring fire crackling in the background. The warmth of the room embraced us, creating an ambiance of both romance and refined rusticity. The heart and soul of Virginia’s hunt country were alive in this space, and the evening felt both intimate and celebratory.
The Menu
Amuse-bouche
Watermelon, Tomato Powder, Basil, Feta Cheese
First Course
Strawberry & Tomato ‘Gazpacho’, Poached Shrimp
Second Course
3 Cheese Ravioli with Heirloom Tomato Relish and Basil from the Goodstone Garden
Third Course
Heirloom Tomato ‘Carpaccio’, 12-year-old Balsamic Vinegar, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Parmesan
Fourth Course
Amish Chicken Galantine, Stuffed with Olives, Capers, Dried Tomatoes, Spinach, Mozzarella, Confit Cherry Tomatoes, Tomato Consommé, and Herb Oil
Fifth Course
Goat Cheese Cheesecake, Toasted Pine Nut Crust, Tomato Sorbet, and Crispy Basil
The menu, themed around the season’s ripest tomatoes, was nothing short of spectacular. Each course was paired with a rosé that elevated the flavors of the dish, creating a seamless harmony between the wine and food. The amuse-bouche was a delightful introduction—sweet watermelon dusted with tomato powder, balanced by the salty tang of feta and the freshness of basil. It was a delicate bite, setting the stage for the vibrant journey ahead.
While each of the bites were as delectable as the ones before and after, my husband and I are still talking about the first course weeks later! The first course, a Strawberry & Tomato Gazpacho with Poached Shrimp, was truly a revelation. The chilled soup was vibrant and refreshing, the sweet acidity of the tomatoes dancing with the rosé from Italy. The pairing was light and bright, leaving us craving more.
The Heirloom Tomato Carpaccio was a celebration of simplicity, yet each element—12-year-old balsamic, extra virgin olive oil, and a dusting of Parmesan—was a study in refinement. Paired with Glen Manor’s Morales Rosé from Virginia, the dish felt like a true homage to the region, merging local produce with global sophistication.
For dessert, we were treated to a Goat Cheese Cheesecake, with a toasted pine nut crust and a surprising yet delightful tomato sorbet. The crispy twill cookie added a playful crunch, and the pairing with Ettore Germano’s Rosanna from Italy, NV, was an unexpected but brilliant end to the meal. The subtle fruitiness of the rosé was the perfect match for the tangy, creamy notes of the cheesecake.
Still savoring the last sips of rosé and the lingering taste of summer, we can’t help but look forward to future events at this extraordinary estate. The warmth, elegance, and unparalleled service left a lasting impression, and it’s easy to imagine returning for another unforgettable evening—perhaps to enjoy a cozy fall dinner by the fire or a festive winter gathering with friends. For anyone in the Virginia area or those seeking an idyllic escape, I highly recommend attending one of Goodstone Inn’s curated events. Each experience is sure to capture the heart and soul of Virginia’s hunt country, offering a perfect blend of fine dining, world-class wines, and serene countryside beauty.
