Despite a few unsuccessful battles in Virginia, Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson still sits tall in the saddle in Charlottesville.

My six-day wine and food excursion through central Virginia led me to the Inn at Court Square, a charming federal period house built in 1785. It is the oldest building in the Historic Downtown District and faces the Albemarle County Courthouse with its magnificent park and equestrian statue of Jackson, considered by many to be one of the finest in the world.

Limited to five guest rooms, the luxury inn is furnished with antiques, many of which are available for sale.

Owner Candace DeLoach also offers an honor wine bar with many Virginia selections by the award-winning Veritas Winery as well as wines from around the world. To enjoy a bottle in the evening, simply sign your name and the wine selection on a sheet of paper and be billed at checkout.

In the morning, a lavish continental breakfast includes breads and pastries baked in-house by pastry chef Pat Chiavetta.

The inn is conveniently located two blocks from the revitalized downtown pedestrian mall, full of fine restaurants, arts and entertainment venues and boutiques.

CELEBRATION OF FOOD

Ten Modern Japanese Restaurant, located at 120B E. Main St., opened October 2006 under the experienced hand of executive chef Bryan Emperor. A Culinary Institute-trained graduate who apprenticed in Japan and worked at Nobu in New York, he is regarded as one of the best Japanese restaurants anywhere.

In addition to serving 20 different brands of quality sake as well as wines and cocktails, the restaurant that translates from Japanese as “celebration” offers a “Ten Martini,” a mix of sake, vodka, aloe juice and sweet momkochan plums.

“Someone familiar with Japanese food will find interesting adventurous items on our menu,” Emperor said. “Those modestly familiar with Japanese cuisine will be comfortable with our menu. Sushi items constitute about 20 percent of our offerings so that those interested in non-seafood, even vegetarian items should be equally pleased.”

Another food lover’s mecca in Charlottesville is the Main Street Market, home of Feast!, Gearhart’s handmade chocolates, Milano’s gelato and coffees, The Organic Butcher and the Albemarle Baking Co.

GOURMET DELIGHTS

Feast! is a veritable cornucopia of fascinating edibles — everything from gourmet salts, oils and vinegars to artisanal cheeses, a connoisseur’s collection of cured and deli meats, local and sustainable produce, wines and more. The exceptional trail mix is made in-house from walnuts, cashews, dried cranberries, chocolate toffee pistachios and truffled cherries. It’s the best I’ve ever had.