Tasting Notes | Thomas Jefferson, James Hemings & Southern France

Explore the intersection of art, history, wine, and cuisine at The Fralin Museum of Art at the University of Virginia.

Inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s travels through Southern France and the culinary influences he brought back to early America, this seated experience will feature four small bites inspired by historic recipes, each paired with a thoughtfully selected wine. The evening will also illuminate the remarkable contributions of enslaved chef James Hemings, whose training in French cuisine helped shape the culinary traditions of early America.

Presented by C-ville Bites and guided by expert sommelier Erin Scala, guests will explore food and wine pairings through the lens of Jefferson and Hemings’ French travels, historic recipes, and the origins and traditions of the featured wines. A visual presentation featuring period imagery, artifacts, and recipes will further bring these stories to life, weaving together the exhibition with the evening’s food and wine. Recipes and beverages will remain as true to their historical origins as possible.

Following the tasting, guests are invited to visit the galleries, where Fralin museum staff will be available to offer additional insight into the exhibition and continue the conversation.