Celebrating culture as a diverse but unifying link between people, the highly anticipated Washington National Opera Ball on May 7, 2011 began with intimate dinners hosted by embassies throughout the city. Ambassador György Szapáry was happy to support the Opera Ball by opening the door of his residence to guests and host a pre-Opera Ball dinner.

Our guest of honor at the dinner was The Honorable Kathleen Merrigan, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. We also had the pleasure of welcoming members of the Board of Trustees of Washington National Opera Harry Gutman and Stephen Huttler.

Culture is unique and universal at the same time. Each people have their own cultural heritage comprising many different influences. But, most notably of all cultural phenomena, music is a universal language.

The dinner was an excellent opportunity to discuss topics ranging from culture to the economy to global issues. The participants had a great time, and enjoyed the discussion over exquisite Hungarian food and wine. Chef Viktor Merényi created a menu representing an assortment of exclusive Hungarian flavors:

Menu

Homemade Foie Gras Assortment with Wild Mushroom Stuffed ‘Beigli’ and Tokaj Wine Jelly

Golden Brown Pheasant Roll Served with Red Wine Reduction, Ginger-Scented Mashed Potato and Baked Pear

 Milk Pie à la Lajosmizse with Apricot Ragout à la Flambé

* * *

Chardonnay, 2008

Gróf Buttler Cellar, Eger Region

Cabernet Sauvignon Franc, 2007

Frittmann Cellar, Duna Region

Tokaji Aszú, 5 puttonyos, 2002

Disznókő Cellar, Tokaj Region

Saturday, May 7th, 2011