Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest® Wine Takes Flight! Posted on March 16, 2023 at 2:17 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest wine takes flight with a breathtaking new label that will help you see this long-time guest favorite in a whole new light. Cardinal’s Crest tasting notes Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest Winemaker’s Blend is an easy-drinking red wine that pairs well with a wide variety of your favorite flavors. Blackberry notes and smooth tannins make Cardinal’s Crest a soft, easy-drinking wine perfect for solo sipping and good-time gatherings. Historic inspiration “For many years, Cardinal’s Crest has enjoyed a loyal following with those who appreciate how approachable it is,” said Meghan Forest, Associate Curator. “What you may not realize, however, is that this wine’s story is rooted in one of George Vanderbilt’s most interesting possessions: a pair of 17th-century hangings embroidered with gold and silver threads.” This likeness of Cardinal Richelieu, engraved by Robert Nanteuil, is one of many prints that George Vanderbilt collected and displayed in Biltmore House. According to Meghan, the original hangings once belonged to Cardinal Richelieu (1585-1642), a French clergyman, nobleman, and statesman who served as Chief Minister for King Louis XIII. “These ornate textiles are a fascinating part of Biltmore’s extensive collection, and they definitely illustrate George Vanderbilt’s deep interests in history, politics, religion, and the arts,” said Meghan. One of two ornate embroidered 17th-century Cardinal Richelieu hangings that George Vanderbilt collected. Both original textiles are now in storage due to their age and fragility. × Detail of the 17th-century Cardinal Richelieu hangings in the Biltmore collection. The star symbol is a reference to the Order of the Holy Spirit, an order of chivalry awarded to leading French nobles to recognize their loyalty to the Crown. (You’ll see the same symbol in the engraved print of Richelieu by Robert Nanteuil previously referenced in the blog.) × An unidentified guest in Biltmore House standing in front of the Cardinal Richelieu hangings, ca. 1898. × The Richelieu family coat of arms includes a central silver ground with three crimson chevrons like you see in the hangings. The motto ‘Semper Idem’ translates to ‘Always the Same’ in Latin, which is also a good motto for a delicious wine like Cardinal’s Crest that is consistent from vintage to vintage! × “The hangings are the most beautiful dark red silk velvet with embroidery and threadwork in real gold and silver. They hung in Biltmore House in the past, and though we wish we could still display these exceptional pieces for our guests, textiles tend to become very fragile as they age, so we have now placed them in storage to conserve them and prevent further deterioration,” Meghan said. Modern inspiration “The name Cardinal’s Crest was selected to honor these extraordinary hangings in Biltmore’s collection, and to echo the rich, velvety red depths of the wine itself–it was a perfect pairing of past and present!” said Meghan. It is difficult, however, to tell such a complex story on the back label of a wine bottle, and over time, Cardinal’s Crest became associated with a different type of cardinal: North Carolina’s state bird. “It makes sense because male cardinals are a vivid red with a distinctive crest of feathers on their head, and because Biltmore is so deeply rooted in North Carolina history,” Meghan said. Creating the new Cardinal’s Crest label In 2022, Biltmore’s wine team decided it was time to share the story of Cardinal’s Crest more broadly, so they turned to Lisa Vogel, Art Director, for a new label that would illustrate the appeal of this easy-drinking red blend. “For years, Cardinal’s Crest has flown under the radar of many wine enthusiasts, but Biltmore’s winemakers have always handcrafted it with the same high-quality grapes that you’d expect from any of our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release wines,” said Lisa. Flight of fancy The new Cardinal’s Crest label features production techniques such as gold foil and holographic foil stamps that create iridescence and a sense of movement. If you look closely at the cardinal, you’ll see that it’s composed of elements from the original hangings, while the gold lines in the background reference the golden embroidery threads. Lisa took inspiration from the historic Richelieu hangings and the modern take on North Carolina’s state bird, weaving both halves of the story together in a stunning label that immediately makes you want to know more about the wine in the bottle. “I took some of the most compelling details from the original hangings and created a dynamic cardinal in flight,” Lisa said. “It was a bit of ‘upcycling,’ if you will–using existing elements from a piece in Biltmore’s collection to create a fresh look for a new generation of wine enthusiasts.” Using a variety of production techniques to further enhance the finished design, Lisa including a gold hot foil stamp printed on the label to mimic the original gold threads. “There is also an iridescence to the labels when you see them in person; this is due to the holographic foil stamp used in addition to the gold foil stamp. Along with a textural emboss and spot varnish, all of the production finishes together create a label that is as luxe as the original textile!” said Lisa. Even though the original hangings must remain in storage, Lisa hopes her design for the Cardinal’s Crest label will give you a glimpse of their ornate beauty. Savor Cardinal’s Crest now Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest wine is perfect for sipping, savoring, and sangria! This delightful red wine—inspired by a flight of fancy with the Cardinal Richelieu hangings in Biltmore’s collection—pairs our winemaker’s passion for her craft with the estate’s cardinal mission of preservation. That’s why it’s designated a Winemaker’s Blend, to reflect Sharon Fenchak’s careful attention to sourcing and selecting outstanding fruit to handcraft our velvety smooth Cardinal’s Crest. Purchase Biltmore Estate Cardinal’s Crest in estate shops or online, and for refreshing summer sipping, try our easy recipe for Cardinal’s Crest Red Sangria!
Explore Biltmore Estate Limited Release Wines Posted on March 14, 2023 at 10:17 am.Written by Jean Sexton Explore our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release wines and learn how winemaker Sharon Fenchak carefully handcrafts each varietal or blend in the series here at Biltmore’s Winery in Asheville, North Carolina. Biltmore winemaker Sharon Fenchak in the Barrel Room at the Winery. “When I’m sourcing grapes for our American series wines from one of our California or Washington vineyard partners, I’m also looking for outstanding vintages that inspire me to create distinctive wines for our Limited Release series,” Sharon said. She noted that the Limited Release wines are usually based on smaller amounts of fruit, and that gives her and her production team an opportunity to bring out different qualities of a varietal or to create intriguing blends. Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Malbec Our award-winning Biltmore Estate Limited Release Malbec is perfect for sipping by the glass or pairing with your favorite hearty fare. “One of our most popular offerings is our full-bodied, oak-aged Biltmore Estate Limited Release Malbec,” said Sharon. “It opens with scents of cocoa, cedar, molasses, and berries ahead of black raspberry, anise, and rich pecan flavors.” As a varietal, Malbec originated in France and rose to its current popularity in Argentina and California. Ours is rich, fruit-forward, and a bit spicy with smooth, lingering tannins that pair perfectly with grilled meat, kebabs, and andouille sausage. It’s also a surprisingly good partner for smoked cheeses and vegetarian fare like mushroom ragout, Portobello burgers, and tempeh dishes. As delicious as it is now, it offers good aging potential—if you can stand to wait! Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Tempranillo Try any of our Biltmore Estate Limited Release wines, including our spicy Tempranillo. Most of the world’s Tempranillo is grown in Spain where it is believed to have originated, but this earthy red wine is rapidly gaining a following around the globe. “Tempranillo has a lot of personality,” said Sharon. “Ours is full-bodied and fruit-forward with earthy aromas, rich dried fig flavors, and lingering tannins—just what you’d expect in a classic barrel-aged version of this varietal.” Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Tempranillo is a hearty red wine that’s a great match for beef, lamb curry, and pork. Explore other Biltmore Estate® Limited Release wines Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Orange Muscat is a favorite for many guests, and it pairs perfectly with our Lemon-Cranberry Shortbread Cookies! In addition to these two varietals, there are a number of other wines in our Limited Release series: Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Chenin Blanc Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Gewürztraminer Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Grenache Blanc Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Dry Riesling Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Orange Muscat Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Petite Sirah-Syrah Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Sangiovese Biltmore Estate Limited Release Fumé Blanc Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Mourvèdre Enjoy Biltmore Estate® Limited Release wines now You’ll find all our Limited Release wines at the Wine Bar adjacent to Biltmore’s Winery. Savor Biltmore Estate® Limited Release varietals and blends–or any of our fine wines–by the bottle or glass at the Wine Bar adjacent to the Winery, or purchase them in estate shops or online.
Raise A Glass To Our Newest Masterpiece Posted on March 8, 2023 at 8:31 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Raise a glass to our newest masterpiece—a delightful blend created exclusively for the 2023 release of our Masterpiece Collection White Wine. Tasting notes Sip something special this spring and summer with the 2023 release of our Masterpiece Collection White Wine. Crisp, smooth, and refreshing, this off-dry white wine was handcrafted to honor George Vanderbilt’s legacy as a passionate collector of extraordinary art and exceptional vintages. It echoes the return of warm weather with citrus and orange blossom aromas, plus wonderful flavors of honeydew, lime, and peach. Inspired by a masterpiece of preservation The hand-painted ceramic tiles on the overmantel above the fireplace in the Tyrolean Chimney Room provided inspiration for our 2023 Masterpiece Collection White Wine labels. For 2023, our Masterpiece Collection White Wine features a set of four labels inspired by hand-painted floral tiles on the overmantel of an 18th-century tile stove known as a kachelöfen that George Vanderbilt likely purchased in his European travels, possibly in Switzerland. Created in the 18th century, the kachelöfen in Biltmore’s Tyrolean Chimney Room is made of tin-glazed earthenware tiles hand-painted with exquisite floral designs. Each of the tin-glazed earthenware tiles is adorned with a lovely bouquet of lush blooms. While the tile was in relatively good condition for its age, Biltmore’s conservators spent hundreds of hours cleaning and in-painting damaged areas of the overmantel in conjunction with the Louis XV Suite restoration project. Our conservators carefully restored the hand-painted tiles in the Tyrolean Chimney Room. The painstaking work required a combination of conservation experience and artistic ability. The results show the vivid colors and delicate florals that inspired the room’s striking design. Choosing the label “We chose the bouquets on these floral tiles as the label for our new Masterpiece Collection White Wine because the blooms are so beautiful, and they capture the feel of warmer weather and the desire all of us feel to enjoy the outdoors during spring and summer,” said Lisa Vogel, Art Director. In fact, all of the tiles were so unique that Lisa couldn’t choose just one for the 2023 Masterpiece Collection label; she selected four separate tiles and created a whole set! The press sheet for our Masterpiece Collection White Wine shows different versions of the labels. “When you see the four labels together, you may notice slight variations in the background behind each bouquet,” Lisa said. “That’s because of the age of the original tiles and the fact that they were painted by hand—it gives them subtle shadings and textures that we worked to preserve in these lovely labels.” Pairing this masterpiece with your favorite flavors Perfect with your favorite warm-weather fare, our Masterpiece Collection White Wine is also refreshing as the base of a refreshing white sangria! Our Masterpiece Collection White Wine pairs perfectly with the lighter fare we favor during warmer weather. It’s perfect for spring and summer sipping and entertaining, this wine pairs well with classic fare such as pasta Alfredo and lighter seafood dishes like crab, fried oysters, and salmon. Make a moment memorable by packing a bottle for your next picnic, or enjoy it with friends at brunch or lunch. In addition, you can stir up a cool, refreshing pitcher of Refreshing White Sangria with our Masterpiece Collection White Wine. Enjoy with friends and freeze any leftovers for a fun take on grown-up popsicles or slushies. Select this special masterpiece for spring! Indulge your senses with our delicious Masterpiece Collection White Wine. If you’re looking for a special gift for spring and summer occasions such as Easter, Mother’s Day, bridal luncheons, weddings, and college graduations, this wine’s one-of-a-kind labels make each bottle a charming gift for flower lovers and those who appreciate all things Biltmore. Look for our 2023 Masterpiece Collection White Wine in estate shops and online while supplies last*. *If you order online, your shipment will contain one or more of the label designs chosen at random.
Biltmore Winery Welcomes Chihuly Chandelier Posted on January 31, 2023 at 4:32 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Chihuly at Biltmore was on display from March 25, 2024–February 2, 2025. Please enjoy this archived content. Biltmore Winery welcomes you to marvel at Iris Gold and Garnet Chandelier created by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly. Learn more about the inspiration, creation, and location of this beautiful Chandelier by artist Dale Chihuly! Inspiration for the Chihuly Chandelier “We are thrilled to share the acquisition of the Iris Gold and Garnet Chandelier by Dale Chihuly,” said Bill Cecil, President and CEO of Biltmore and great-grandson of George Vanderbilt. George Vanderbilt (left; portrait by John Singer Sargent) was a thoughtful collector of wines whose legacy continues to inspire our handcrafted Biltmore wines today. “We know that George Vanderbilt was a thoughtful collector of art and wine who enjoyed bringing beautiful objects to fill his home and sharing excellent vintages at his table,” Bill said, “so our family commissioned this piece to represent the importance of wine in our history, from the Vanderbilt era to our modern-day winemaking philosophy.” The stunning chandelier draws inspiration from the vibrant hues found in Biltmore’s red, white, and rosé wines. Creating the intricate composition Travis Tatham (center), Biltmore’s Director of Destination Entertainment and Events, looks at the plans for the new Iris Gold and Garnet Chandelier with members of Team Chihuly. × Travis Tatham explores color options for the new Iris Gold and Garnet Chandelier × Travis Tatham participates in glassblowing with Team Chihuly in The Hotshop in Seattle, WA. × Chihuly’s Chandeliers are composed of hundreds of blown glass elements that together make up elaborate, intricate compositions. Chihuly began the Chandelier series in 1992 and has since created them for locations all around the world. Dale Chihuly, Iris Gold and Garnet Chandelier, 2022, 8x6x6′, ©2023 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. “What makes the Chandeliers work for me is the massing of color. If you take hundreds of blown pieces of one color, put them together, and then shine light through them, now that’s going to be something to look at. Hang it in a space and it becomes mysterious, defying gravity or seemingly out of place, like something you have never seen before.” — Dale Chihuly A welcome addition to Biltmore’s collection George Vanderbilt’s father commissioned artist and interior designer John La Farge to create several stained glass panels that represent “The Fruits of Prosperity”. “While we have decorative glass objects in Biltmore’s private collection, such as a Tiffany vase and the La Farge stained glass windows, this commissioned Chihuly Chandelier is the first fine-art glass sculpture to be added to Biltmore’s private collection,” said Ellen Rickman, Director of Museum Services. Part of the Biltmore collection, this handblown vase by famed art glass maker Louis Comfort Tiffany features different layers of glass in different colors, with a gold metallic surface and woven sterling silver overlay. Dale Chihuly is recognized for having a significant impact on the art world, just as artists like Paul Auguste Renoir and Claude Monet did in their time. We are honored to welcome this work of art into our collection alongside important works by other great artists. Savor and share Biltmore Winery’s new Chihuly Chandelier Biltmore’s Winery offers wonderful ways to savor and share all year round, including the new Chandelier by Chihuly. All Biltmore guests with estate admission, Annual Pass membership, or an overnight stay are welcome to view the Chihuly Chandelier inside the Wine Shop of our estate Winery in Antler Hill Village. For current hours of operation, visit biltmore.com/hours. For those who enjoy sharing their memories on social media, we invite you to use our official tags: Handles: @biltmoreestate @biltmorewines @chihulystudio Location tag: Biltmore, 1 Lodge Street Hashtag: #ChihulyatBiltmore #Chihuly #Biltmore Featured image: Dale Chihuly, Iris Gold and Garnet Chandelier, 2022, 8x6x6′, ©2023 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved.
Our Sparkling Wines Make New Year’s Shine! Posted on November 3, 2022 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton Biltmore sparkling wines make New Year’s shine–and they’re perfect for any other holiday or special occasion! Add Biltmore sparkling wines to all your holiday and New Year’s celebrations “George and Edith Vanderbilt were known for their hospitality,” said Sharon Fenchak, Biltmore’s Winemaker. “And when it came to their holiday and New Year’s celebrations, they made sure to add even more sparkle, so to speak, for their guests to enjoy while visiting Biltmore.” We love to carry on Vanderbilt family traditions—and create new ones—by adding our sparkling wines to New Year’s celebrations along with favorite red, white, and rosé selections from our estate Winery. Here are Sharon’s helpful tips for serving and pairing sparkling wines: Serve sparkling wines like a pro Biltmore sparkling wines are characterized by fine, tiny bubbles Sparkling wines are best served at 33-40 degrees. Chill the bottle in the refrigerator prior to opening. The cold temperature helps preserve the bubbles when opening the bottle. To open sparkling wine, hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle. Loosen the cage and hold the cork. Gently twist the cork until you hear a whisper of a pop. Holding a towel over the cork when opening will help catch any spills that may occur. After opening, all sparkling wines begin to lose their bubbles, so it’s best to drink them as soon as possible. Biltmore bubbles add sparkle to any occasion Keep plenty of Biltmore bubbles on hand to help season the holiday with cheer! From easy appetizers and classic cocktails to decadent desserts, add extra sparkle to your New Year’s celebrations with the delightful handcrafted bubbles of Biltmore sparkling wines! Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Noir: Fruit-forward and refreshing with flavors of cherries and strawberries and a pretty pink holiday hue. Pairing suggestions: flounder, mahi-mahi, turkey, pound cake, brie cheese, and fresh fruit Easy appetizer to delight your guests: Kahlúa®-Pecan Brie Pas de Deux® Sec: Semi-sweet and bursting with tiny bubbles, this aromatic wine features the essence of orange blossom and flavors of wild strawberry and lemon. Pairing suggestions: fresh fruit, chocolate-covered strawberries, crème brulee, pumpkin pie Decadent dessert to grace your holiday table: Praline Pumpkin Pie Biltmore Estate® Château Reserve Blanc de Blancs: Our finest sparkling wine, handcrafted from exceptional Chardonnay grapes harvested in Biltmore’s own vineyard. Pairing suggestions: caviar, pâté, oysters on the half shell, aged asiago cheese, ceviche, and wedding cake Classic cocktail to toast the New Year: French Rose 75 Stock up on sparkling wines now for your New Year’s celebrations Surprise someone special with a gift basket filled with Biltmore sparkling wine, gourmet food, and other goodies Just in time for New Year’s toasts and midnight munching, stock up on all your favorite Biltmore wines and gourmet foods in estate shops and online.
Wrap Up Holiday Gift Giving with Biltmore Wines! Posted on October 16, 2022 at 1:58 pm.Written by Jean Sexton When you wrap up your holiday gift giving with Biltmore wines, everyone on your gift list will know how much they mean to you! Floral designer Hope Wright recently retired from a 23-year career at Biltmore where she specialized in floral design at A Gardener’s Place gift shop below the Conservatory. We caught up with Hope for some expert guidance on gift wrapping wine to make it even more special. Dress up a plain wine gift bag with a bright bow and a tassel or other ornamentation “I love Biltmore wines and I often give them as gifts, especially during the holiday season,” said Hope. “And while there’s nothing wrong with simply placing a bottle of wine in a gift bag, it’s also nice to wrap it in a creative way that says ‘you’re special’ to your recipient.” Timeless natural elements “Here are two easy ideas that look beautiful using a little bit of ribbon and the kind of greenery you can often cut from your own backyard or local park,” Hope said. “It doesn’t take much to make a big impact.” Crown of ivy Create a simple “crown of ivy” to adorn the top of a wine bottle To create this “crown of ivy” topper for our Biltmore Estate® Dry Rosé, Hope clipped an 18-inch strand of small leaf ivy and wrapped it several times around the neck of the bottle, tucking the end of the vine into itself to keep it in place. She used about 18 inches of narrow, patterned ribbon to tie a simple shoestring-style bow and attached it to the ivy crown with wired twine. “I purposely attached the bow off-center,” said Hope, “so the wine label shows prominently,” As a finishing touch, Hope clipped the ends of the bow to a length she liked and wound the ends of wired twine into a few whimsical tendrils that complemented the ivy. Ribbon wrapping This gift-wrapping treatment couldn’t be more simple–or more beautiful! Hope wrapped a length of burlap ribbon around the bottle just below its mid-section, making sure not to cover up the label. Our Biltmore Reserve wines on this outstanding Biltmore® Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon North Carolina. Handcrafted from estate-grown grapes, all of our Biltmore® Reserve wines offer an excellent way to give a local item as a gift. She used a different type of ribbon to tie a simple bow around the bottle, centering it over the first ribbon for contrast. “Once you have the ribbons and the bow in place, you can tuck in any type of greenery you like. I used two different colors of arborvitae to create more interest and texture, but sprigs of ivy would work, or a twig with berries–the possibilities are endless!” Hope noted. Wrap up your holiday gift giving To wrap these wine bottles for gift giving, Hope used the same wrapping technique on each of them, but varied the wrapping material and trimmings. Global journey Create serious travel vibes by wrapping a wine bottle in a vintage map For the travelers on your gift list, wrap a bottle of wine in a vintage map, like this one that Hope found in a thrift store. For an eco-friendly option, you could also opt for recycled brown craft paper or upcycled paper shopping bags. To fully cover a Biltmore Wine bottle with your paper of choice, you’ll need a 24″x 24″ section of the paper. After wrapping the wine, Hope knotted a length of raffia around the neck of the bottle, then added a simple bow of red ribbon and a bit of greenery for some holiday flare. Wrap it royally Look for rich fabric remnants that you can repurpose for wrapping a bottle of Biltmore wine “In addition to vintage maps, I look for beautiful fabric remnants that will make gorgeous gift wrap for wines,” said Hope. “Simply wrap the bottle, then tie a coordinating ribbon around the neck–that’s all you need to make it special.” As a bonus, Hope created an elegant pine tassel to set off the regal look of this wine gift, She clipped enough white pine needles to get a full-looking tassel, hot-glued the tops together, and bound the top with narrow wired twine to hide the glue. While binding the top, she also made a loop of the wired twine to go around the neck of the bottle. Step-by-step: tea towel wine gift wrap To gift wrap a wine bottle in a tea towel, follow the easy steps shown here Hope chose a Biltmore tea towel with a Christmas pattern to gift wrap this exceptional bottle of The Hunt Red Blend Sonoma County. After fluffing the ends of the tea towel, she tied an elegant bow of wired silk ribbon around the neck. To make the gift twice as nice, Hope added a pretty Biltmore Christmas ornament to the bottle. “Look at each of steps shown in this instructional collage,” Hope said, “and you’ll see how easy it really is to gift wrap a wine bottle in a tea towel!” Gift giving: bundles and baskets Bundle several items with a similar theme, like a stylish cheeseboard, a bottle of Biltmore wine, and a selection of our delicious gourmet mixes and dips Wrap up a bountiful bundle “Here’s an easy way to create a bundle of gifts that share a common theme,” said Hope. “Choose a sturdy cheeseboard and secure a bottle of Biltmore wine to it with a ribbon. Add a stack of Biltmore’s delicious gourmet food mixes and dips to the board and tie a wide ribbon around the whole bundle.” For an extra surprise, Hope turned a set of cheese knives into a special topper for the bundle, then tucked a few sprigs of fresh rosemary around the tools. “The rosemary is the crowning touch that pulls the culinary theme together,” Hope noted, “and it smells wonderful, too!” Holiday hospitality in a basket Surprise someone special with a gift basket filled with Biltmore sparkling wine, gourmet food, and other goodies Who wouldn’t want to receive a basket of holiday hospitality full of Biltmore wine and gourmet goodies, especially when it is embellished with fresh greenery and ribbons? “For this gift giving example, I chose a medium-sized basket that would easily hold a bottle of Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine, a selection of Biltmore mixes and dips, Wassail Drink Spice, seasonings and sauces, and a holiday tea towel,” said Hope. She lined the basket with a type of honeycomb packaging paper that’s recyclable, and tucked in a few cardboard risers to keep smaller items from falling to the bottom. Once everything was arranged to Hope’s satisfaction, she filled in the background with magnolia leaves and pine cones, wired an elegant golden bow to the basket’s rim, and balanced the look with a Biltmore Christmas ornament on the other side. Make holiday gift giving more merry! Wrap up your gift giving with Biltmore wines, and consider including a bottle of our sparkling grape juice for those who prefer that option. “All the ideas I’ve shown here easy to recreate,” Hope said, “and that was my goal. I hope you’ll be inspired to surprise friends and family with special touches like these that make your holiday gift giving even more meaningful.” Find everything you need to celebrate the season in style–including Biltmore wines, Biltmore sparkling grape juice, and gourmet foods–at estate shops and online at biltmoreshop.com.
Biltmore Test Vineyard Offers a Grape Escape Posted on August 30, 2022 at 12:00 am.Written by Ellie Garst Our test vineyard, located below The Inn on Biltmore Estate®, offers an easy “grape escape!”Biltmore’s main vineyards are planted on the west side of the estate in an area not normally seen by guests. Opportunities to visit them are limited, but you can get a sneak peek at growing grapes by visiting our test vineyard. Plantings in the test vineyard Rows of vines (far left) show the location of the test vineyard between The Inn and the Winery. According to Philip Oglesby, Vineyard Supervisor, this small display area was planted by the Vineyard team in 2000 to offer guests at the Winery and The Inn an opportunity to see first-hand how Biltmore wine grapes are grown. There were two acres of plantings originally, but a small portion was removed to make room for the walking path between The Inn and Winery once The Inn was finished in 2001. “Cabernet Sauvignon is the grape of choice for the test vineyard because that varietal had already proved hardy in our main vineyards,” said Philip. “We have experimented with other varietals like Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah at times to see how a particular grape performed in our climate, but Cabernet Sauvignon is still the primary variety you’ll find in this little vineyard.” Discover each season in the test vineyard The test vineyard gives guests an opportunity to see how grapes are grown at Biltmore. Since the test vineyard was developed, guests have been able to see a small-scale version of the grape-growing process in each season, from caring for the vines in winter to bud break in spring and ripening fruit during the summer. Each fall, the grapes in this small vineyard are harvested for use in Biltmore wines. It typically takes Philip’s harvest crew of approximately 30 people one full day to pick the grapes by hand and bring them down to the crush dock behind the Winery. Protection from predators As the grapes ripen in our vineyards, the fruit must be protected from uninvited guests such as robins, geese, and turkeys. Today’s visitors will notice a fence around the vineyard—it was added to keep deer from damaging the plants and fruit. In addition to keeping the deer out, Philip’s crew places netting on the vines in August every year to prevent bird damage. “We have to keep birds—especially robins—out of the vineyard or else we would have nothing left there,” said Philip. “Birds aren’t usually a big deal for the west side vineyards during most years, and I honestly do not know why they like to pick on the little Test Vineyard so much!” For the main vineyards on the west side, Philip’s team has to contend with damage by geese (and turkeys, to a lesser extent), which can lead to fairly significant crop loss. “During years when there are fewer wild berries and seeds, I have noticed that smaller birds will also seek out grapes as an alternate food source on the west side, but this is not a frequent problem,” said Philip. Plan your own grape escape now! Enjoy Biltmore wine on the estate and at home. Visit Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, and see the test vineyard for yourself. Make it a real “grape escape” with overnight accommodations at The Inn, Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate, or one of our private historic Cottages on Biltmore Estate™. Featured image: The Inn on Biltmore Estate above the test vineyard
Biltmore Wines: Cheers for Each Tier! Posted on August 9, 2022 at 6:38 pm.Written by Jean Sexton All Biltmore wines are cheers-worthy, from our fine American Series and Limited Release options to our exceptional Reserve tiers and Antler Hill® vintages. Discover what makes our wines worth cheering about with an overview of each collection. Biltmore Estate® American Series Collection Our classic Biltmore Estate® American Series wines are approachable and feature classic varietal character. Look for the “Biltmore burgundy” capsule and a line drawing of Biltmore House on the label. Grapes for this collection are selected from leading growing regions across the nation and handcrafted at our estate winery in Asheville, NC. Each wine captures the true character of the varietal, resulting in an outstanding taste that provides a perfect pairing for any occasion. Example: Biltmore Estate® Cabernet Sauvignon is a great option in our American Series collection. This smooth wine featuring lush cherry flavors and soft, lingering tannins was awarded 95 points in the prestigious San Francisco International Wine Competition. Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Collection Biltmore Estate® Limited Release wines, distinguished by a matte black capsule and black-and-gold label, are perfect for sipping by the glass or in craft cocktails. Crafted in smaller lots, these exceptional wines include some of our most intriguing varietals and blends that showcase our winemaker’s skillful artistry in each bottle. Limited Release wines are exclusively available on the estate, online, or through the Vanderbilt Wine Club®. Example: Our highly aromatic Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Chenin Blanc balances off-dry citrus flavors and a lingering sweet finish. Biltmore® Reserve Collection Our Biltmore® Reserve label honors fine vintages handcrafted with grapes from the estate’s vineyard in Asheville, NC. The collection is distinguished by blue foil capsules and a label showcasing elements of the Vanderbilt family’s table linens and place settings. An invitation to dine with the Vanderbilts at their magnificent home in Asheville, North Carolina, assured you of enjoying gracious hospitality paired with fine wines. Today, their enduring legacy inspires our winemaker to handcraft each wine in our Biltmore® Reserve Collection from grapes grown at the estate’s own vineyard or from local partners in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Example: We handcraft our lovely Biltmore® Reserve Rosé North Carolina 2022 to offer delicate sweetness with hints of spice and white pepper. Approachable and easy to drink, the style is reminiscent of classic old-world rosés. Vanderbilt Reserve® collection Each outstanding Vanderbilt Reserve® wine bears the appellation and vintage of its origin. This collection is distinguished by red foil capsules and a label design based on George Vanderbilt’s monogramed china and table linens. These distinguished vintages reflect George Vanderbilt’s interest in collecting fine wines from around the world to share with his friends and family at Biltmore. For Vanderbilt Reserve® wines, our winemaker selects outstanding fruit from partner vineyards in some of the nation’s finest growing regions and oversees the process of handcrafting each one. Each of these wines bears the appellation and vintage of its origin. Example: Our Vanderbilt Reserve® Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2020 showcases its versatile, food-friendly character with good acidity, flavors of strawberry, red raspberry, and cherry, and slight hints of minerality, enhanced by aging 14–16 months in French and American oak barrels. Antler Hill® Collection Handcrafted with premium vintages from the finest growing regions, Antler Hill® wines offer extraordinary taste and excellent aging potential. The handsome label is reproduced from a sporting print in George Vanderbilt’s collection. Antler Hill® wines pair the passion of Biltmore winemaker Sharon Fenchak with the premium harvests and vintages from our small partner vineyards with whom we’ve cultivated long-standing relationships in the nation’s finest wine regions. Each wine is handcrafted with exceptional skill to showcase the varietal, the vintage, and to honor the Vanderbilt family’s heritage of gracious hospitality. Example: From smooth tropical notes to a bright citrus finish, our exceptional Antler Hill® Chardonnay Carneros 2020 offers crisp layers of refreshing un-oaked flavor achieved by careful aging for 12–24 months in stainless steel tanks under the direction of our estate winemaker. Biltmore Estate® Sparkling Collection Each of our sparkling wines is carefully handcrafted in the traditional méthode champenoise, including our exceptional Biltmore Estate® Chateau Reserve Blanc de Blancs created with estate-grown Chardonnay grapes. At Biltmore’s Winery in Asheville, NC, we craft both still and sparkling wines. It’s unusual to offer both—most wineries specialize in one or the other—but Biltmore has a long history of doing the unexpected. All our sparkling wines are handcrafted in the traditional méthode champenoise, a process that requires a secondary fermentation in the bottle, and is vital for developing the delicate bubbles that characterize outstanding sparkling wines. Example: Dry and delicate with tiny mousse-like bubbles, Biltmore Estate® Château Reserve Blanc de Blancs North Carolina 2019 is our finest sparkling wine–and it’s handcrafted from our own estate-grown Chardonnay grapes! Learn more about Biltmore wines Learn more about Biltmore wines with a complimentary tasting at the Winery, then enjoy your favorites by the glass or bottle at the adjacent Wine Bar. We invite you to learn more about Biltmore wines by visiting our Winery in Asheville, NC, to taste them for yourself! Your Biltmore Estate admission includes access to Antler Hill Village & Winery, and we encourage you to enjoy a complimentary tasting at the Winery during your visit. Want another great way to discover our wines? Become a member of the Vanderbilt Wine Club® and enjoy seasonal shipments of our handcrafted wines delivered directly to your door.
George Vanderbilt: A Thoughtful Wine Collector Posted on August 1, 2022 at 12:00 am.Written by Ellie Garst George Vanderbilt was a thoughtful wine collector, whether at home or abroad. Taste and style were two hallmarks of his life, and both are reflected throughout Biltmore—his private country estate in Asheville, North Carolina. Visually stunning and technologically advanced, Biltmore House is a testament to Vanderbilt’s vision. A Thoughtful Collector George Vanderbilt’s legacy of gracious hospitality lives on with Biltmore wines handcrafted from grapes grown in the estate’s own vineyard or selected from trusted west coast partners George Vanderbilt was well-known as a collector, travelling the world gathering art, sculpture, furniture, and books. He also enjoyed wine, frequently purchasing it abroad and bringing cases of wine back to his home in Asheville to share with his family and friends. Vanderbilt’s gracious hospitality was legendary, and a visit to his home was characterized by the best in comfort, entertainment, and attention to every detail, including the wines that graced his table and delighted his guests. Wine cellars don’t have to be stuffy–evaluate your space and your lifestyle for options! Wine research at Biltmore In 2008, wine consultant John Hailman visited Biltmore to look at Vanderbilt’s wine cellar and the vintages stored there, and to review wine-related notes and correspondence from the Vanderbilt era. Having been a wine columnist for the Washington Post, with his work nationally syndicated for more than a decade, Hailman is considered one of the foremost authorities on wine. In 2006, he wrote Thomas Jefferson on Wine, an examination of Jefferson’s influence as a wine connoisseur and collector in the early days of the nation. A portion of an archival receipt for a wine and spirits order to be delivered to Biltmore House Through Hailman’s research, we now have a better understanding of George Vanderbilt as a thoughtful wine collector. Archival correspondence, notes, and receipts suggest that Vanderbilt was well-versed in wines, purchasing those he enjoyed sharing. Vanderbilt was also a practical buyer, preferring high quality vintages at reasonable prices, such as wines from Chateau Pontet-Canet which is still in business today in the Bordeaux wine region of France. “Good enough for anybody” Our handcrafted Biltmore bubbles make any occasion more special Vanderbilt’s trusted wine purveyor Alexander Morten was known for his excellent taste and recommendations, and would have been a worthy provisioner for the Vanderbilt lifestyle. George Vanderbilt relied upon Morten’s suggestions and his outstanding contacts in the industry. In one letter dated February 14, 1914, Morten advises Vanderbilt on a particular vintage for an upcoming ball, suggesting: “As to Champagne for a ball:- I can strongly recommend Pierlot 1906. This is a good, sound vintage wine, price $32.50, and is used almost exclusively by many of our customers for dances and entertainments of that ilk. If you have the slightest hesitation, however, I can recommend Pol Roger 1906; price $36. We also have Krug, Clicquot and Pommery of 1906 and 1904; but these are more expensive. The Pierlot is good enough for anybody.” This letter is particularly poignant, as George Vanderbilt passed away in Washington, DC, just a month after he received this letter. We don’t know what type of ball the Vanderbilts might have been planning, but the preparations were apparently abandoned after Mr. Vanderbilt’s unexpected death. “You have only to examine the amount and variety of crystal and stemware in the Biltmore collection—glasses for every possible occasion and type of beverage—to see the importance of wines and spirits as an integral part of dining and entertaining,” said Lauren Henry, curator of interpretation. Delicate crystal glasses with George Vanderbilt’s monogram on the Banquet Hall table “Knowing that George Vanderbilt collected and enjoyed wine—and served it to his guests—forges a very real and logical connection between the Vanderbilts and the wine business their descendants have developed and continue to nurture today,” Lauren said. Savor Biltmore Wines Enjoy Biltmore wines while visiting the estate or savor them at home Be sure to visit Biltmore’s Winery and enjoy a complimentary tasting of some of our most popular wines. Relax and enjoy our wines by the bottle or glass at the adjacent Wine Bar, then stock up on your favorite vintages at estate shops or online. Featured blog image: John Singer Sargent portrait of George Vanderbilt paired with a selection of our fine Biltmore wines, including our Antler Hill series
Discover Biltmore’s Working Winery Posted on March 23, 2022 at 1:48 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Discover Biltmore’s working winery and learn how we handcraft our award-winning Biltmore wines. Here, the process begins long before the first grape is harvested; it begins with planting seeds of thought, from there our vision takes root and the rest is history! Biltmore’s Wine History A portion of an archival receipt for a wine and spirits order to be delivered to Biltmore House George Vanderbilt was known as a thoughtful collector of wines who wove an appreciation for fine wines into the fabric of the Biltmore experience, making it part of his legacy for gracious living. While Mr. Vanderbilt introduced the pleasures of wine to Biltmore, it was his grandson, William A.V. Cecil, who had the vision and determination to develop vineyards and a winery at his family’s estate in the early 1970s. Creating Biltmore’s working winery Experience an award-winning portfolio of red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines at Biltmore Winery. In 1983, renovation began on the estate’s original dairy barn to convert it into a state-of-the-art winery, complete with production facilities, a tasting room, and a wine shop. Bill Cecil, Jr., son of William A.V. Cecil and great-grandson of George Vanderbilt, assumed a leadership role in overseeing the project. “It wasn’t easy to turn an old barn into a new working winery,” said Bill, “but we knew it was important to keep the integrity of the original structure, and that helped us make each decision along the way.” Biltmore Winemaker Sharon Fenchak Winemaker Sharon Fenchak draws wine from a barrel with a type of syphon called a wine thief in the Barrel Room at the Winery Since the Biltmore Winery opened in 1985, we attribute much of our success to our talented winemakers: Philippe Jourdain, Bernard Delille, and Sharon Fenchak, who joined the Winery team as assistant winemaker in 1999 and was promoted to winemaker in 2003. Sharon now oversees Biltmore Wines as winemaker and vice president. Just like her predecessors, Sharon remains committed to handcrafting Biltmore Wines with the philosophy of keeping each wine true to varietal character, food-friendly, and consistent from vintage to vintage. Steel tanks used in the winemaking process at Biltmore “Tastes change over time,” said Sharon. “Our wines are crafted in a classic style, but we keep our production facility up-to-date and we take advantage of technology and trends that help us improve our skills. It’s very important that we constantly learn more about what our guests enjoy so we can continue to produce wines they seek out here at the estate or savor in their own homes.” Biltmore’s vineyard According to Philip Oglesby, Vineyard Supervisor, Biltmore’s harvest season begins in late August with early-ripening white varietals such as Chardonnay. Vineyard crews pick grapes by hand throughout September and into October, giving the red varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc more time to mature. Vineyard crews picking grapes by hand in Biltmore’s vineyard on the west side of the estate “Within hours of being harvested, the grapes grown in our own vineyard on the west side of the estate are brought to the crush dock behind the Winery,” said Philip. “As the next phase of the winemaking process begins, we look forward to learning which wines will be created—especially those that earn the Biltmore® Reserve label that honors exceptional North Carolina vintages from Biltmore and our local growing partners.” Although most wineries specialize in either still or sparkling wines, we handcraft both here at the estate—just another distinction that sets Biltmore’s working winery apart. Cheers to our working winery and our handcrafted wines! Make a reservation for your complimentary tasting at Biltmore’s working winery! Join us at the Winery to enjoy the fruits of our labor! Experience our Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting in the Tasting Room, take a deeper dive into our working winery on the Farm to Table Tour and Taste, or simply relax at the Wine Bar with any of our wines by the glass or bottle. Purchase Biltmore wines at the estate and online—or become a member of the Vanderbilt Wine Club and enjoy having our wines shipped directly to your door each season.