Our Winemaker’s Guide to Red Wines Posted on January 15, 2025 at 6:06 pm.Written by Jean Sexton While Biltmore’s handcrafted red wines pair perfectly with cozy winter weather, this guide to red wines by Sharon Fenchak, Biltmore’s winemaker, offers great tips for finding red varietals and blends to enjoy all year long. Biltmore winemaker Sharon Fenchak in the Barrel Room at the Winery. Meet your red wine guide With decades of winemaking experience, Sharon Fenchak can offer helpful guidance on understanding and approaching all wines, including red ones. The U.S. Army veteran has been with Biltmore since 1999, starting as an assistant to winemaker Bernard Delille, then taking on the role of head winemaker after Bernard’s retirement in 2018. “From meals that feature hearty winter fare to cozy movie nights and more, a glass of red wine is a welcome complement to cooler weather activities,” said Sharon. “But once the weather warms, don’t shelve your reds. Learning a few basics about red wine will enable you to choose what fits the season, your palate, and your mood, any time of the year.” Biltmore Century Sweet Red Wine is a guest favorite in the Winery’s Tasting Room. Sweet red wines v. drier options According to Sharon, the sweetness or dryness of a wine depends on several factors, including the residual sugar left in the wine after fermentation. Biltmore® Century Sweet Red Wine is a good example of a sweeter style that pairs well with cheeses and decadent chocolate desserts. With red wines such as our Vanderbilt Reserve® Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, most of the sugar has been converted into alcohol, resulting in a drier style that complements rich fare and offers good aging potential. Other factors that affect the sweetness and dryness of wines: Acidity: Wines with higher acidity levels tend to taste drier. Tannins: These bitter compounds in red grape skins contribute to the signature mouthfeel of drier red wines. Grape variety: Some varietals have inherently higher sugar levels that contribute to a sweeter taste. The flavor profile of others might feature a lot of ripe fruit notes that give the perception of sweetness, even if the wine doesn’t contain high amounts of residual sugar. We handcraft red wines in a variety of body styles. What is body style? “Wine is often described in terms of body style, from light to medium to full-bodied,” said Sharon. “Body refers to viscosity—the weight and feel of the wine when you take a sip. If you’re just learning about wines, Sharon suggests it may be helpful to think about body styles of milk, a more familiar beverage. Whole milk is full-bodied with a heavier, richer mouth-coating feel while light-bodied fat-free milk has a smoother, lighter texture. In general, lighter-bodied red wines like our Biltmore Estate® Pinot Noir have a slightly lower alcohol content and tend to be refreshing and easy to drink. You may even enjoy them with some foods that would traditionally be paired with white wine, like roast turkey or pork loin. Medium-bodied red wines such as our estate-grown Biltmore® Reserve North Carolina Merlot tend to complement a wide range of flavors, making them a good choice for sipping on their own or savoring with a meal. Like their medium counterparts, full-bodied reds like guest-favorite The Hunt Sonoma County Red Blend or Biltmore Estate® Cabernet Sauvignon work in symphony with foods, but complex flavors and a fuller body allow them to give a star solo performance. Red wines can range in color from bright purple to deep maroon–and every shade in between! Take cues from red wine hues “One of the most beautiful aspects of red wines are the color variations, but there is much more to it than just pigmentation,” Sharon said. Black, red, or purple grape varietals are used to create red wines, but the finished product can come in many shades such as pink, purple, ruby, and garnet. “The color of the grape’s skin obviously affects the wine,” explained Sharon, “but so does the varietal character of the grape, the climate in which it’s grown, and the length of time the wine has been aged.” Typically, the lighter a red wine’s color, the younger the vintage, while wines that are aged longer have deeper colors. Neither wine is superior; it’s simply a matter of what fits the occasion and which you find most appealing.” Add festive bubbles to any occasion with our Biltmore Estate Blanc de Noir, a sparkling wine crafted with Pinot Noir grapes. Still and sparkling wines: what’s the difference? “The biggest difference between still and sparkling wines occurs in the fermentation process,” Sharon said. “For our Biltmore sparkling wines, we utilize the classic méthode champenoise in which a still wine undergoes a secondary fermentation in the bottle. It is the traditional way to create the fine, tiny bubbles that make sparkling wine so special.” Sparkling wines are similar to still wines when it comes to other characteristics such as sweetness, dryness, and body style. A sparkling wine like our pink-hued Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Noir—handcrafted from red Pinot Noir grapes—is perfect for year-round occasions, from romantic Valentine’s Day celebrations and summer wedding toasts to all your fall and holiday gatherings. Red wines are best served slightly chilled. Quick tips for storing and serving your red wines Red wine is best served slightly chilled at around 55–65 degrees Fahrenheit. Consider putting red wines in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes before serving. Choose glasses with a wider bowl that allows the wine to aerate before you drink it. Red wines may also benefit from being decanted before being served. Red wines typically age more smoothly than white wines due to the presence of tannins. Allow bottles to age for six months to a year and see if the flavor has changed perceptibly. All wines should be stored in a cool, dark place. If you don’t have a dedicated space for storage, consider a kitchen cabinet (away from the stove and not above the refrigerator!) or a guest room closet to minimize light and vibration. Keep the bottle tilted downward toward the cork, if possible. Savor the Bistro’s hearty Beef Bourguignon recipe featuring red wine from the comfort of home. Create perfect pairings with red wines Looking for something new to explore this winter? Consider tackling a hearty recipe that features red wine—Bistro’s Beef Bourguignon is a great place to start. As the weather warms for spring and summer, consider a sensational red sangria showcasing our versatile, food-friendly Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest®. For fall and the holidays, enjoy the warm comfort of our Wassail Spice Blend with your favorites in Biltmore’s red wine collection. “The topic of red wines is expansive and endlessly fascinating,” said Sharon, “and Biltmore’s wide range of red wines can provide perfect pairings for any season, lifestyle, palate, meal, and occasion.” Learn more about Biltmore red wines with a complimentary tasting at the estate’s Winery or with a Vanderbilt Wine Club membership. Learn more with a Vanderbilt Wine Club® membership Now that you know a bit more about red wines, we invite you to discover new favorites with a complimentary tasting at our estate winery in Antler Hill Village, and explore new varietals each season by joining our Vanderbilt Wine Club. In addition to enjoying your preferred Club style of Red, White, Mixed Red and White, or Sweet wines seasonally, you’ll receive invitations to virtual wine tastings, in-depth notes, recipes, and, of course, you’ll gain early access to our newest wine releases. Become a member today, and have the season’s best delivered right to your doorstep. “The Vanderbilt Wine Club is an exciting and effortless way to learn about the best wines for each time of year,” Sharon said, “and to experience firsthand why I never tire of my profession!”
Celebrate the Season with Biltmore Christmas Wines Posted on November 12, 2024 at 11:58 am.Written by Jean Sexton For the 2024 holiday season, Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines are available at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, in our online store, and in many local retail and grocery stores in the Southeast. Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines For 2024, our Christmas at Biltmore wine labels feature an exterior view of Biltmore House and the facade of the Conservatory in the Walled Garden. “The release of our annual Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines marks the start of the holiday season, and we welcome you to taste them at the Winery during our Christmas at Biltmore celebration,” said Sharon Fenchak, Executive Winemaker. Local artist creates our Christmas labels Asheville artist Olga Dorenko created original artwork for our Christmas at Biltmore wines. In one of our favorite time-honored traditions, we selected a local artist to create original designs for the label of each Christmas at Biltmore wine. Olga Dorenko of Asheville, NC, was asked to capture two different aspects of Biltmore’s beauty during the Christmas season. For the Christmas at Biltmore Red Wine, she showcased the iconic exterior of Biltmore House with decorated Christmas trees on the Front Lawn and a swirl of bright leaves framing the scene. Olga’s vivid artwork work showcases her emphasis on color and nature. The Conservatory graces the label of this year’s Christmas at Biltmore White Wine. Olga caught it just at sunset when the last of the light casts a rosy glow over the grand, glass-topped structure in the Walled Garden. “My paintings, inspired by local, national, and international landscapes, highlight color and light,” said Olga. “I have always had a deep appreciation for color.” Olga at work in her studio. During her time as a classical art student, Olga noted that she spent a considerable amount of time mixing and blending colors. This longstanding and intense relationship with color in her artistic training is displayed in her current work, including the two Christmas at Biltmore wine labels “Through my use of color, I can lend a contemporary interpretation to my otherwise realistic landscapes,” said Olga. Pour on the cheer with Biltmore wines! Savor this year’s Christmas at Biltmore Red and White wines with your favorite holiday flavors! Whether you’re in the mood for a fragrant, semi-sweet blended white wine or a soft, fruit-forward red blend, our Christmas at Biltmore Wines offer a classic complement to your favorite flavors at the holiday buffet or dessert table. As an added bonus, the lovely labels make both wines a charming gift of the season for anyone on your gift list. Savor our Christmas at Biltmore wines with a complimentary tasting at the Winery and purchase them in estate shops. You’ll also find our Christmas wines—and all your other handcrafted favorites—online at shop.biltmore.com or in select local retailers.
Halloween How-to: Pairing Biltmore Wine with Candy Posted on October 10, 2024 at 10:34 am.Written by Jean Sexton There’s nothing scary about enjoying Biltmore wines with your favorite sweets! Take spooky-season fun to the next level with our special Halloween how-to on pairing Biltmore wine with classic candy at home. The same principles that apply to successful food-and-wine pairings also work with candy. For desserts, you’d normally choose a wine that’s sweeter than the dish you’re serving, but this Halloween how-to focuses on pairings that add a little sophistication and a lot of fun to the mix. Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Dry Riesling pairs perfectly with tri-colored candy corn Complement candy corn For those who love the seasonal stripes and sugary sweetness of old-fashioned candy corn, it’s twice as nice with a glass of Biltmore Estate® Riesling. Our Riesling features sweet apricot aromas, light honey flavors, and a crisp finish that provides a pleasant balance for the pure sweetness and soft, waxy texture of candy corn. For a special Halloween treat, savor smooth, creamy peanut butter cups with our approachable Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay Peanut butter perfection If your Halloween traditions include snagging all the chocolate-covered peanut butter cups out of the treat bags to savor later, we suggest you consider complementing the dynamic duo with our approachable Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay. This is a pairing that surprises people, because you don’t normally pair peanut butter with wine. But if you think about it, what’s more perfect with peanut butter than grape jelly, which gives you a point of reference. Our Chardonnay also works well because it’s a delightfully smooth wine with fruit flavors and hints of oak that enhance most food flavors. It’s also crisp and offers good acidity to balance the higher fat content and rich mouthfeel of peanut butter. Savor the dark side by pairing Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Mourvédre with peppermint patties Savor the dark side While chocolate is frequently served with red wine, the combination of dark chocolate and a strong mint filling makes pairing classic peppermint patties a bit of a challenge, but we say it’s okay to savor the dark side with our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Mourvédre. This wine offers wonderful aromas of black cherry, vanilla, and soft oak that carry through to the palate with flavors of chocolate, blueberry, vanilla, subtle hints of cedar, and soft tannins. It has a kind of rustic elegance that complements the sophisticated notes of dark chocolate and peppermint. Create a sweet-and-sour surprise by pairing Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc with sour gummy candy! Sweet-and-sour surprise This is another surprising pairing, mostly because nobody thinks about trying sweet-and-sour Halloween candy with wine—especially an elegant white varietal like Sauvignon Blanc! The pairing works on two levels, beginning with the bright citrus aromas of Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc that complement the playful scent of the candy. Smell them separately and you’ll start to understand how they can work together. The Sauvignon Blanc is crisp, with refreshing flavors of peach and a touch of minerality that keeps the candy from being overly sweet, making them perfect partners for each other. Cheer to pairing Halloween candy with your favorite Biltmore wines! Halloween how-to with Biltmore wine Ready to try our Halloween how-to and savor Biltmore wines at home with your favorite trick-or-treat candy? Find our award-winning wines at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, online, or close to home with our Retail Locator.
Visit Itinerary: Food & Wine Lover’s Guide to Biltmore Posted on August 21, 2024 at 8:00 am.Written by Heather Angel Beyond the grandeur of the Gilded Age chateau, you might be surprised to learn that Biltmore Estate is a culinary haven for food and wine lovers! At Biltmore, gracious hospitality has always included an emphasis on fine dining. The Vanderbilts’ table featured the freshest offerings from their market garden, farm, and dairy. If you’re a self-proclaimed foodie, you are cordially invited to savor Vanderbilt-inspired field-to-table freshness with our estate-grown ingredients, gourmet dining, regional comfort foods, and award-winning wines. This food and wine lover’s guide to Biltmore features a selection of our options and is designed to be easily tailored based on your restaurant preferences, dietary needs, and other estate activities you have planned during your visit to Biltmore. Bon appétit! Jump start your day with a hearty breakfast at Village Social. 🥞 Morning Whether you’re waking up on the estate or arriving early, get fueled up for a day filled with exploration, learning, restoration, and adventure with a hearty breakfast at Village Social (inside Village Hotel) or Sunday Brunch at Bistro. Coffee drinkers, be sure to order a cup (or two!) of our exclusive Biltmore coffee blend that you can’t get anywhere else. If a light breakfast is more your speed, stop by The Kitchen Café (inside Village Hotel) or The Bake Shop (by Biltmore House) for a delectable pastry and cup of Joe on the go. For a more casual food and wine experience, dine at Cedric’s Tavern in Antler Hill Village. 🥗 Mid-Day By the time lunch comes around, you’ve no doubt worked up an appetite! If you’re in the Biltmore House and Gardens area, Stable Café features Appalachian comfort food in a truly unique setting (the historic horse stables) while Courtyard Market and The Conservatory Café are excellent options for more casual, quick bites. Meanwhile, in the Antler Hill Village area, you’ll find mouth-watering pub fare at Cedric’s Tavern, European-inspired menus at Bistro, and grab-and-go Carolina barbeque at The Smokehouse Food Truck… all within walking distance! Discover our award winning wines with a complimentary wine tasting at the Winery! 🥂 Afternoon We know that 5 o’clock comes early when you’re on vacation, so be sure to visit our estate Winery (in Antler Hill Village) where you can enjoy a complimentary wine tasting and shop for your new favorite varietals at the Wine Shop, both housed inside our historic Biltmore Dairy Barn. Just across the “Scholar’s Walk,” you’ll find our Wine Bar, which is perfect for enjoying our award-winning wines by the glass or bottle paired with light fare, like charcuterie. Craving a little afternoon treat? Discover a match made in heaven with our Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting at the Winery, featuring locally made French Broad Chocolate, or swing by The Creamery (also in Antler Hill Village) for an Instagrammable confection. If you’re in the mood to channel your inner Vanderbilt, consider booking an elegant Afternoon Tea experience at our four-star Inn on Biltmore Estate. Indulge in a four-star food and wine experience at The Dining Room. 🍽️ Evening Cap off your day with an elegant, four-star meal at The Dining Room (inside The Inn on Biltmore Estate), where world-class service inspired by the Vanderbilt legacy and estate-raised ingredients shine. For more award-winning dining, nearby Cedric’s Tavern offers a more casual atmosphere and classic English pub favorites while Bistro’s menu highlights the charms of Europe and seasonal ingredients. No matter where you choose to dine on the estate, be sure to raise a glass and toast to a day well spent. Bistro’s menu highlights the charms of Europe and seasonal food and wine pairings. Additional Food and Wine Visit Planning Tips: Below are a few additional tips for planning your visit to Biltmore Estate. Plan Ahead: In addition to daily reservations required for entry to Biltmore House, reservations for sit-down meals are strongly recommended and can be made online. To dine on the estate, guests must have a daytime ticket, a Biltmore Annual Pass, or a stay at one of the estate’s splendid overnight properties. Check Current Hours: Restaurant opening and closing times vary throughout the year, so be sure to check our current Hours of Operations to know what will be available during your visit. Getting Around the Estate: Many guests underestimate the vast size of Biltmore Estate. With miles between points of interest, we recommend allowing your party at least 30 minutes for travel and parking between estate locations. For helpful guidance on estate accessibility, please explore our Help Center. Make it a Getaway: With so many great food and wine experiences to savor, treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable getaway with an overnight stay on Biltmore Estate or join our Passholder family. Field-to-Table Fun: We have multiple ways to learn about our field-to-table philosophy at Biltmore! For in-depth discovery, be sure to visit our Winery and Farmyard in Antler Hill Village or consider booking a guided activity like our Farm to Table Tour & Taste experience (available exclusively to overnight guests and Passholders; availability is subject to change). Don’t Forget Your Mementos: Visit our shops to find unique gourmet treats, like award-winning Biltmore Wines or honey from our estate beehives, to bring the Biltmore legacy home with you.
Biltmore Wines for Warm Weather Sipping Posted on June 20, 2024 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton Our award-winning Biltmore wines are perfect for warm weather sipping whether you’re packing a picnic, entertaining friends and family outdoors, or simply relaxing on your porch or patio this summer. Keep it crisp and refreshing Biltmore wines are perfect for warm weather sipping! Biltmore Estate winemaker Sharon Fenchak recommends focusing on lighter, dryer, more acidic wines during the warmest months of the year. According to Sharon, these wines refresh your palate in the same way lemonade does when the weather heats up and you feel more thirst. “Sweeter wines tend to leave you thirsty, while wines with higher acidity such as our own crisp Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc can actually quench your thirst on a warm spring or summer day,” Sharon said. White wines for warm weather sipping Enjoy warm weather sipping with Biltmore white wines by the glass or bottle. “Another great choice is Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Fumé Blanc. It features notes of tropical fruit notes with hints of oak, vanilla, and spice,” said Sharon, “and it pairs beautifully with salads, chicken, and grilled fish–the kinds of food you tend to serve in warmer weather. Sharon also recommends Biltmore Estate® Pinot Grigio with its spicy citrus finish, and our off-dry, approachable Biltmore Estate® Albariño as especially nice options for sipping outdoors on spring and summer evenings. Prefer a cool, elegant classic white wine for summer sipping? Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay offers crisp fruit flavor and hints of oak to complement everything from grilled vegetables to chicken and seafood. Pick the perfect rosé for warm weather Enjoy summer sipping and entertaining outdoors with your favorite Biltmore wines. Rosé drinkers will appreciate our Biltmore Estate® Dry Rosé, a surprisingly dry wine with delicate layers of berry flavors. It’s perfect with chicken, pork, salmon, and sausage–serve it along with all those smoky grilled favorites at your next backyard barbecue–or enjoy it as an ingredient in a refreshing cocktail. Warm-weather sippers for red wine lovers Add some sparkle to warm weather sipping with our Cardinal’s Crest Sangria! Sharon recommends mellow, versatile reds for the warm weather sipping; one of the best is Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest—a smooth, easy-to-drink blend. “Enjoy it by the glass, or mix up a pitcher of fruity sangria to sip in the shade,” Sharon said. “Your friends will thank you!” Biltmore bubbles are festive and fun! Enjoy our sparkling wine poolside during warm weather, just like this guest at The Inn on Biltmore Estate. Like something bubbly? Sparkling wines like our Biltmore Estate® Brut, handcrafted in the traditional méthode champenoise style, are perfect for warm weather sipping on their own and as the base of mimosas or other cocktails. Cool down with the 20-minute rule Cheers are on the horizon! “Whatever wine you prefer, make sure you chill it first, even if it’s a red wine,” said Sharon. She suggests that you cool reds for about 20 minutes before you serve them. For white wines, remove from the refrigerator 20 minutes prior to serving so their aromas and flavors can be released. “The most important rule of wine? Drink what you like, regardless of the time of year!” Sharon said. Enjoy sipping Biltmore wines all summer long Put Biltmore wines on your “bucket list” for summer sipping! Find your favorite Biltmore wines at Biltmore Estate shops, restaurants, and our Winery—or closer to home with our Retail Locator. You can also order by phone at 800-968-0558, or purchase our wines online. In addition, summer is a great time to explore our Vanderbilt Wine Club®, with seasonal shipments delivered directly to your door, plus invitations to members-only events and more.
In The Spotlight: Biltmore’s Vineyard Posted on May 1, 2024 at 1:00 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Believe it or not, Biltmore’s first vines were planted right next to America’s Largest Home® around 1971. What started as a testing ground for hybrid varietals has flourished into a 50-acre vineyard on the west side of the estate with varietals such as Chardonnay, Petit Manseng, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Follow along as Phil Oglesby, Vineyard Manager, shares a glimpse of our estate vineyards throughout the year. During the bud break stage of the vineyard lifecycle, the vines are extremely sensitive at this time and young shoots must be protected. Spring bud break: new growth begins “The first major event of spring in any vineyard is bud break,” said Phil, “and Biltmore’s vineyard on the west side of the estate is no different. Even though we’re already working with the vines, that first hint of a bud breaking open gives us a sense of urgency that the growing season is underway.” Once bud break occurs, typically around late March, the vineyard crew becomes even more vigilant because Western North Carolina remains under a frost warning until mid-May. “Protecting the tender, developing green shoots is a priority. We have several strategies we can deploy during a spring freeze to help mitigate damage,” Phil said. “There are wind turbines in the field to keep the air moving so the frost doesn’t settle on the fragile buds, and we can spray the vines with water so they’re encased in ice, which protects them from freezing temperatures, but grapes are still a field crop that is affected by the weather.” The flower bud (inflorescence) contains hundreds of flowers, but not all will turn into berries. In order to thrive, warmth and sunlight are crucial. Biltmore’s vineyard blooms As spring’s warmer weather returns, our estate vineyard sees substantial leaf growth in the young shoots fueled by the carbohydrates stored during the dormant winter months. Soon, the vines will bloom with tiny self-pollinating flowers that are destined to become grapes. Nature is the best protector during these critical times. We focus on creating an optimal habitat through sustainable practices. Biltmore’s vineyards are flush with bright green grape clusters during the summertime. Fruiting in time for NC Wine Month Each May serves as a time for celebration for Biltmore Wines. Not only is it the anniversary month for the opening of our Winery in 1985, but it’s also North Carolina Wine Month. Meanwhile, the days are getting longer and warmer and the danger of frost has passed. Fruit clusters begin to form under the leaves. Known as “berries,” these hard green fruits don’t look much like mature grapes, but they continue to ripen. The summer months set the stage for the fall harvest. As the berries develop, also known as fruit set, our growers get their first look at the amount of grapes the vineyard will potentially yield and the amount of wine we will produce. The swelling of the grapes with water increases the sugar and tannin levels while reducing the acid levels, all the while accumulating color and flavors. Veraison signals the countdown to harvest In the beginning, all berries are green, but as they ripen, they transform into beautiful hues of red, purple, and golden through a process called veraison. Phil said, “By mid-July you should notice some color coming into the grapes—light gold for the Chardonnay and speckles of purple for the Cabernets.” This noticeable change in color marks a tipping point in the growth process where the plant begins focusing energy on ripening and sweetening the fruit. This change also signals to the teams that the countdown to harvest is underway! Biltmore’s grapes are harvested by hand every year! Gearing up for harvest season In every wine-growing region, harvest preparation is one of the busiest times of the year for vineyards and wineries. Phil and his crew work to prepare the equipment, including hand clippers and flat containers for carrying grape clusters without damaging the fruit. “Executive Winemaker Sharon Fenchak frequently visits the vineyard, especially as the fruit develops on the vine,” said Phil. “We work together to try predicting harvest yields and we keep a close watch for potential problems that can be minimized with our control. The vineyard team has a shared goal of providing the Winery with the best possible fruit we can produce.” The crafting of fine wines relies on cooperation and good communication between the teams. A close look at Biltmore wines—especially during harvest—reveals the benefits of such a relationship. The ripeness of grapes and weather conditions determine the start of harvest. Sweetness, alcohol content, and acidity are all affected by time. Harvesting our finest fruit Once harvest begins, the crew will work from sunrise to late afternoon, carefully gathering the ripe fruit that will become the heart of our Biltmore wines in the years to come. Chardonnay is one of the early-ripening grapes on Biltmore’s west side vineyard. With Mother Nature’s cooperation, Phil and his team will typically begin harvesting this varietal in late August. All grapes are hand-picked, with harvests averaging 130 tons annually, and transported to our winery and production facility located in Antler Hill Village where the winemaking process begins. Snow protects the vines against icy winter temperatures and aids their hibernation. Caring for the vines during wintertime Despite what you might think, the vineyard work continues during the winter months. Though the weather may have turned, the dormant vines still need care. Our teams remain hard at work, pruning and protecting the vines to keep them healthy and strong. While the vines rest, our winemaker continues to craft the recent harvest into wines worthy of sipping and savoring. Barrels are filled to the bung hole to compensate for natural evaporation (or for a taste test!), ensuring the quality of the wine inside. And then, like clockwork each year, winter gives way to early spring and the cycle begins again… Our viticulture program honors the Vanderbilt heritage to create new opportunities for the family’s estate in harmony with Biltmore’s mission of preservation. Sourcing the finest fruit for our wines You may have “heard through the grapevine” that in addition to our estate vineyard, we also work closely with partner growers in California and Washington who help supply fruit for our portfolio of wines, most of which are handcrafted at the estate. “Our partners are an important part of our wine program at Biltmore’s Winery,” says Sharon Fenchak, Executive Winemaker. “We spend a lot of time with growers from around the Monterey, Sonoma, Napa, and Mendocino wine regions.” Sharon explains that the importance of these long-standing relationships with all our partner growers ensures that the quality of our wines is as consistent as possible from vintage to vintage. For a true grape-to-glass experience, savor our Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay North Carolina varietals, each featuring estate-grown grapes. Savor the fruits of our labor Join us at Biltmore’s Winery and Wine Bar in Antler Hill Village to discover new and favorite vintages of our award-winning wines. Be sure to look for varietals featuring estate-grown grapes, like our Biltmore® Reserve North Carolina Chardonnay. Our wines are also available in estate shops, at retailers near you, online, and through our Vanderbilt Wine Club®. No matter where you’re enjoying your Biltmore wines, we invite you to raise a glass in honor of our grape growers, vineyards, and winemakers across the nation!
Celebrate with Sensational Sangria Recipes Posted on April 9, 2024 at 4:28 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Celebrate the warmer months with these sensational sangria recipes featuring your favorite Biltmore wines! Whether you’re a fan of reds, whites, or rosés, there’s a perfect option in the following recipes to help you create fun and fruity sangrias for solo sipping and friendly gatherings all season long. White Wine Sangria Masterpiece Sangria Cardinal’s Crest Red Sangria Purchase our award-winning wines in estate shops, online, or find a Biltmore wine retailer near you. White Wine Sangria Biltmore Estate Sauvignon Blanc is the star of this refreshing white sangria dreamed up by Marley Goldin / @marleysmenu following a complimentary wine tasting at Biltmore Winery. (Photo courtesy of @marleysmenu.) Sip on this delightful Sauvignon Blanc-based sangria recipe, created for Biltmore by Marley Goldin of @marleysmenu. Ingredients: 2 lemons, washed and sliced in wheels 2 limes, washed and sliced in wheels ½ cup granulated sugar ¼ cup triple sec 1 bottle of Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc (or your favorite Biltmore white wine) 1 ½ cups strawberries, washed, tops removed, halved 2 cups club soda Ice Instructions: Into a large pitcher, add the lemon and lime slices and granulated sugar. Muddle for 30 seconds until the sugar combines with the citrus juices. Add the triple sec, then stir to combine. Add the Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc and sliced strawberries to the pitcher and stir again. Just before serving, add ice and club soda. Serves 8. Tip: This recipe can be made up to 24 ahead of time! The longer the fruit sits in the liquid, the more its flavor infuses. Hold off on adding the club soda and ice until just before serving. Masterpiece Sangria Biltmore Masterpiece Collection White and Rosé Wines Although traditional sangria recipes tend to feature red wines, this version with our Biltmore Masterpiece Collection White or Rosé Wines is a cool, refreshing treat for warm weather. Enjoy with friends and, should you have any leftover (we doubt you will!), freeze it for a fun take on grown-up popsicles or slushies. Ingredients: 1 bottle Biltmore® Masterpiece Collection White Wine or Rosé Wine 4 ounces simple syrup 4 ounces brandy 2 ounces of freshly squeezed orange juice 2 ounces of freshly squeezed lime juice 2 ounces of freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 limes, sliced in wheels 1 lemon, sliced in wheels then halved 1 Fuji apple, cubed 1 Anjou pear, cubed 1 mango, cubed Seeds from ½ pomegranate (optional) Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher and stir until well mixed, adding pomegranate seeds at the end for presentation as they tend to fall to the bottom after stirring. Serve over ice. If sangria sits overnight, add simple syrup to taste as additional juices will come forward the next day. Serves 4-6. Cardinal’s Crest Red Sangria Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest wine is perfect for sipping, savoring, and sangria! Take time for yourself with a glass of Cardinal’s Crest Red Sangria—the perfect sparkling treat for a leisurely Sunday morning brunch or a long afternoon on the porch. Ingredients: 3 ounces Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest ½ ounce Orange Curacao ½ ounce St. Remy Brandy ¾ ounce orange juice ¼ ounce grapefruit juice ½ ounce simple syrup 1 ounce Biltmore Estate® Brut sparkling wine Lime wedge and an orange wedge (optional garnish) Instructions: Add the first 6 ingredients to a small pitcher or shaker; mix until combined. Pour over ice in a wine glass and top with 1 ounce sparkling wine and garnish with lime and orange wedges. Serves 1, but can be easily multiplied for sharing.
Exotic Orchids Bloom on This Wine Label Posted on March 11, 2024 at 2:23 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Discover how the exotic orchids that “bloom” on the labels of our latest Biltmore Masterpiece Collection Wines are entwined with our history. Orchids at Biltmore Glorious blooms in the Orchid Room inside the Conservatory at Biltmore. Each release in our Masterpiece Collection is specially created to honor George Vanderbilt’s legacy as a collector of extraordinary treasures and exceptional vintages. “We chose orchids for the labels of our latest Biltmore Masterpiece Collection Wines because George Vanderbilt enjoyed them,” said Sharon Fenchak, Executive Winemaker. “I love orchids, too, and appreciate sharing that connection with Mr. Vanderbilt.” Local artist creates the labels Artist Bryan Koontz of Weaverville, NC, spent time in the Orchid Room in the Conservatory, studying the beautiful blooms–some of which are the same varieties that landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted originally ordered for Biltmore. Bryan Koontz created this series of sketches, eventually narrowing the field down to four specific blooms. After sketching many different orchids, the field was narrowed to four different varieties. Bryan then painted original watercolors of each bloom to create a series of four labels that capture each of the different orchids with all their glorious details. Bryan created original watercolor paintings featuring four different orchids for the Biltmore Masterpiece Collection White and Rosé Wines. Wine tasting notes and pairing suggestions Savor our Biltmore Masterpiece Collection White and Rosé Wines separately, or collect the entire “bouquet” with four beautiful orchid labels! For this Masterpiece Collection release, Sharon handcrafted two different wines: a crisp, smooth, and refreshing white blend and a fragrant, fresh, and delicious rosé. Masterpiece Collection White Wine is light-to-medium-bodied and features a soft floral aroma with hints of spice and citrus followed by flavors of white peach and clementine. With nicely balanced acidity and sweetness, it pairs perfectly with quiche, pasta Alfredo, Italian wedding soup, and delicate spring vegetables. Masterpiece Collection Rosé Wine is light-to-medium-bodied and opens with delicate vanilla and floral aromas that give way to juicy flavors of strawberry and rock candy, plus bright acidity. Sip this well-balanced wine as an aperitif before serving with charcuterie, shellfish, olives, crudités, or a classic bagna cauda dipping sauce for fresh vegetables. Both Masterpiece Collection wines are perfect for brunch, light luncheons, and spring celebrations. Enjoy them separately or collect a beautiful “bouquet” featuring all four orchid varieties! Discover all of our wines, including the Masterpiece Collection Enjoy our Biltmore Masterpiece Collection White and Rosé Wines at your next brunch or luncheon! Find all of our wines, including Biltmore Masterpiece Collection White and Rosé Wines, in estate shops, online, or through your local retailer. These limited release wines are available while supplies last.
Pumpkin Spice Sangria Recipe Posted on November 1, 2023 at 8:00 am.Written by Karina Hux Fall in love with this ‘not-so-basic’ Pumpkin Spice Sangria that’s just as cozy as your favorite sweater. This refreshing blend combines the crispness of autumn fruit with an unexpected punch of pumpkin spice. Whether you’re serving it in a wine glass or out of a punch bowl, it’s the ideal way to add some spice to your fall festivities. Purchase our award-winning wines in estate shops, online, or find a Biltmore wine retailer near you. Biltmore Estate Sauvignon Blanc is the star of this refreshing white sangria dreamed up by Marley Goldin / @marleysmenu following a complimentary wine tasting at Biltmore Winery. (Photo courtesy of @marleysmenu.) Pumpkin Spice Sangria Total time: 5 minutes Serving Size: 1 gallon Ingredients: ¾ cup granulated sugar 11 ounces pineapple juice 11 ounces apple juice 4 ounces pumpkin syrup 3 bottles Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay 10 ounces club soda 3 granny smith apples 5-6 cinnamon sticks Instructions: Pour the sugar and pineapple juice into a small saucepot. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves completely. Transfer the mixture to a punch bowl. Add the apple juice, pumpkin syrup, and Biltmore Estate Chardonnay to the bowl. Stir to combine. Slice or chop the apples (according to your preference) and add them to the sangria, along with several cinnamon sticks. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Just before serving, stir in the club soda. Serve and enjoy!
Stocking, Storing, And Savoring Biltmore Wines Posted on September 28, 2023 at 9:20 am.Written by Jean Sexton Whether you’re stocking, storing, or savoring Biltmore wines, this is our most important tip: enjoy the process! Wine cellars don’t have to be stuffy–evaluate your space and your lifestyle for options! Lots of people think that stocking a wine cellar or storing wines is a stuffy, old-fashioned business, but that’s an outdated idea. We want you to enjoy every part of the experience—especially savoring Biltmore wines! 1. Evaluate your storage options No wine cellar? No problem–consider dedicating a cabinet in your kitchen or other area of your home. When deciding which wines to stock, first evaluate your available storage space. Don’t worry if you don’t have the luxury of a wine cellar (few of us do), but instead ensure that your space is dark, away from movement or vibrations, not too hot or cold (55F˚ is ideal), and has a humidity level between 50% and 80%. A cool spot in a closet or cabinet away from exterior walls and removed from the hustle and bustle of the rest of your home will allow your wine to rest comfortably until it is called into service. 2. Consider your lifestyle With Biltmore wines, all your gatherings are seasoned with cheer! Reflect on your favorite ways to indulge when stocking your wines. Are you a homebody who will be drinking a weeknight wine to relax after work? Or a social butterfly who regularly attends cocktail and dinner parties? Map out your month and decide what will work best for your needs and your budget. Include which foods you are more likely to cook at home (see our wine recommendations list below for ideas!) in your decision-making process. 3. Try different wines Savor our outstanding Biltmore wines with a grazing board at your next gathering For a fun and economical way to taste and choose, host a wine party with a variety of sweet and spicy hors d’oeuvres and invite your guests to bring a “new to them” bottle within a designated price limit. While you’re out and about, watch for sales to try something different with less risk. For an even more targeted experience, savor a tasting at Biltmore Winery and discuss your options with our experienced wine hosts while you sample a selection of award-winning favorites*. 4. Plan ahead Enjoy your favorite red wines any time, from fireside sipping to celebrating special occasions. Review the special occasions that lie on your winter horizon. Will you be marking a milestone birthday, enjoying a romantic Valentine’s Day meal, or attending an intimate gathering with friends? Invest in a few choice bottles to have on hand so you’ll always have a thoughtful gift or be able to celebrate your own meaningful moments. Be sure to set aside a bottle or two for special occasions in years to come–this gives you a perfect opportunity to experiment with the effects aging will have on different varietals. Biltmore’s wine recommendations Enjoy savoring a wide selection of Biltmore wines! To start or stock your cellar, try these winning Biltmore wines: Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay: When grilling outdoors, the subtle oak flavors of Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay pair perfectly with salmon, chicken, and foil-wrapped vegetable packets. Indoors, think creamy pasta or clam chowder. Biltmore Estate® Dry Rosé: If you think it’s just for summer, it’s time to rethink rosé! Ours is refreshing whether served chilled or at room temperature and features crisp layers of delicate berry flavors that complement chicken, pork, salmon, and sausage. Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Malbec: A wild game dish like venison or bison burgers will be the perfect complement to a Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Malbec, or try spicy, vibrant flavors such as those found in chimichurri sauce or Spanish tapas. Biltmore Estate® Cabernet Sauvignon: Steak, short ribs, and hearty vegetables such as squash and portabella mushrooms are perfect with the smooth, vanilla-scented flavor of Biltmore Estate® Cabernet Sauvignon. Vanderbilt Reserve® Sonoma County Pinot Noir: Elegant and easy to drink, this versatile wine is right at home whether accompanying roasted pork and poultry or classic pasta dishes with a tomato-based sauce. Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Tempranillo: For a well-rounded wine that can stand on its own or complement hearty flavors, sip our spicy, fruit-forward Tempranillo by the glass or serve with beef, pork, or lamb dishes and Gruyère cheese. Biltmore Estate® Sparkling Wines: Handcrafted in the traditional méthode champenoise at our estate winery, each of our spectacular sparkling wines offers crisp, refreshing flavor and fine bubbles perfect for toasting special occasions or pairing with your favorite foods. Savor Biltmore wines now Savor all your special small moments with Biltmore wines! The world of wine is fascinating, and the more you learn, the more addictive it can become. Relish the journey of discovery and make it a fun process. Keep your stock replenished from the comfort of home with the convenience of online shopping, or join the Vanderbilt Wine Club® to receive a curated shipment delivered to your door each season. You’ll thank yourself the rest of the year!