Biltmore Winery Celebrates 35 Years of Cheers! Posted on May 12, 2020 at 3:25 pm.Written by Jean Sexton As Biltmore Winery celebrated 35 years of cheers in May 2020, we invite you to raise a glass in honor of our anniversary! Our 35th Anniversary Chardonnay was handcrafted to celebrate the Winery And what’s in that glass you’re raising? Biltmore winemaker Sharon Fenchak has created something truly special for the Winery’s anniversary–a barrel fermented, barrel aged Chardonnay handcrafted from grapes grown in the estate’s own vineyards. Crafting a special wine for the occasion “I selected the fruit for our 35th Anniversary Chardonnay from a very special group of clones that I’ve been helping nurture for nearly 20 years in Biltmore’s vineyard,” said Sharon. In addition to her other winemaking responsibilities, Sharon oversees the estate’s vineyard. “The term ‘clone’ refers to a cutting or bud from an original varietal,” Sharon said, “and these clones are from old-world Chardonnay vines in Dijon, France. According to Sharon, these clones produce smaller, looser clusters of grapes with more intense flavors and aromatics that result in a unique and distinctive style of Chardonnay. The winemaking process In addition to the careful selection of the varietal, Sharon chose to ferment the 35th Anniversary Chardonnay in barrels rather than steel tanks because the exothermic reaction of fermentation helps incorporate more of the barrel flavor and aromas into the wine. “From its opening bouquet of butter, creamy vanilla, and a bit of green apple, you immediately know this isn’t your average Chardonnay,” said Sharon. “And as you sip, you’ll taste delightful flavors of Meyer lemon and a hint of creamy custard. This barrel-fermented and barrel-aged wine is soft, smooth, and features a subtle acidity.” Perfect pairings Pair our 35th Anniversary Chardonnay with fresh seafood and other flavorful fare Sharon recommends savoring the Chardonnay with shrimp Alfredo, tuna Niçoise, Caesar salad, and classic southern seven-layer salad. For a delightful dessert pairing, serve some zesty lemon bars that echo the wine’s classic citrus notes. “Consider enjoying the Chardonnay during dinner alfresco with friends,” Sharon said, “and be sure to raise a glass to the past and present of Biltmore’s Winery!” Biltmore Winery celebrates 35 years of cheers Celebrate Biltmore Winery’s 35th anniversary with our special 35th Anniversary Chardonnay Along with our limited release 35th Anniversary Chardonnay, you can find all our handcrafted Biltmore wines online.Thank you for making the last three-and-a-half decades so successful for Biltmore’s Winery, and cheers to the next 35 years!
Choose Biltmore’s Most Aromatic Wines for Spring Posted on March 29, 2020 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton Spring is the perfect time to choose Biltmore wines, especially if you want to savor the “scent-sations” of our handcrafted varietals that complement the fresh and fragrant aromas of the season. From soft floral notes like those of a vintage perfume to bright hints of fruit and spice, these wonderful wines will take your senses on an aromatic adventure! Enjoy warm weather sipping with your favorite aromatic Biltmore wines by the glass or bottle! Here are our top recommendations for which Biltmore wines you should choose this spring to experience the essence of the season. Biltmore® Masterpiece Collection White Wine Aromatic and refreshing, our 2025 Biltmore Masterpiece Collection White Wine is perfect for spring sipping! Versatile and food-friendly, our Biltmore® Masterpiece Collection White Wine is a perfect partner for breezy brunches, lunches, and picnics. The label, featuring original artwork by artist Bryan Koontz of Weaverville, NC, captures the vibrant sunflowers we plant each year to delight you (along with our birds, bees, and butterflies!). PAIRING TIP: Savor our Masterpiece Collection White Wine with a wide range of options including fish tacos, prosciutto-wrapped fruit and cheese, baked brie with strawberry jam, and pound cake with fresh berries. Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc Uncork a bottle of this crisp and refreshing white wine and you’ll encounter bright citrus aromas that speak to the return of warmer weather. PAIRING TIP: With fresh peach flavors and an elegant finish, our Sauvignon Blanc is a perfect partner for light spring and summer fare such as goat cheese, salads, and seafood. Pack a bottle of Biltmore wine for your next spring picnic–Gewurtztraminer is always a good choice! Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Gewürztraminer Highly expressive aromas reminiscent of spring’s lightly-sweet blooms give way to lush flavors of spice, fruit, and floral notes. If you’ve ever wondered what to pair with spicier foods, this aromatic wine is surprisingly simpatico with dishes that generate a bit of heat. PAIRING TIP: pick up your favorite Asian and Indian cuisine and uncork a bottle of our Limited Release Gewürtztraminer. Red wines aren’t just for winter–enjoy sipping them in every season, including spring! Biltmore Estate® Sangiovese If you think red wines are too heavy for the season, just breathe in the elegant cherry aromas of our Sangiovese and you’ll imagine you’ve been transported to spring in the Italian countryside! The taste—full-bodied with ripe berry flavors intertwined with hints of chocolate—will make you glad you thought outside the red-wine-in-winter box.PAIRING TIP: For spring, serve our Sangiovese with lighter fare inspired by its Italian origins, including mushroom risotto and pasta with red sauce. Pas de Deux Sec is perfect for pairing with classic desserts or creating sparkling cocktails! Pas de Deux® Sec Semi-sweet and bursting with tiny bubbles, this delightfully aromatic sparkling wine features the essence of orange blossom and flavors of wild strawberry and lemon. It smells and tastes as if we captured a perfect day in spring and bottled it for you to sip and savor. PAIRING TIP: Serve Pas de Deux Sec with classic desserts like pound cake and fresh strawberries–or enjoy it in sparkling cocktails! Spring picnics pair perfectly with your favorite aromatic Biltmore wines! Stock up on aromatic spring favorites! We hope this round up of Biltmore’s most aromatic wines helps you breathe new life into your spring wine adventures! Find all our award-winning wines online and through your local retailers.
Garden Parties Are a Spring Tradition at Biltmore Posted on March 3, 2020 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton Whether you’ve been to Biltmore many times or are just planning your first visit, Spring at Biltmore is a season you won’t want to miss! A tradition of outdoor festivities Colorful spring blooms in Biltmore’s Shrub Garden Flowers on parade Spring was always a special time for the Vanderbilts as they enjoyed the beauty of Biltmore’s grounds awakening from winter. The return of warmer weather also brought the opportunity to spend more time outdoors and to host garden parties and festivities for family and guests. Cornelia and Edith Vanderbilt in a carriage decorated with flowers for the 1905 Flower Carriage Parade in Biltmore Village For several years during Cornelia Vanderbilt’s childhood, her family, along with estate residents and members of the local community, celebrated the season with a parade of flower-decked carriages in Biltmore Village. Wedding bouquets On April 29, 1924, as Cornelia Vanderbilt prepared to marry the Honorable John F.A. Cecil, the gardens of Biltmore were called upon to play an important role in her wedding. Luckily, the acres of beautifully-landscaped shrubs and blooms were up to the task! Wedding party of John and Cornelia Cecil in the Tapestry Gallery of Biltmore House, 1925 “The flowers for Cornelia’s bridesmaids were ordered from New York, but they did not arrive on the train in time,” said Lizzie Borchers, Biltmore Floral Displays Manager. “So Biltmore’s gardeners came to the rescue, clipping forsythia, tulips, dogwood, quince, and other flowers and wiring them together. They were quite large compositions, twiggy, open, and very beautiful.” Cornelia’s garden party Of course, summer was also a wonderful season for garden parties. In August 1925, Cornelia Cecil celebrated her 25th birthday with an open air ball at 9:30 p.m. in the Italian Garden. At least 300 guests were invited, and party-goers danced to the Charles Freicher Orchestra amidst the splendor of twinkling lights from Japanese lanterns placed in trees and shrubbery and torches flaring in potted plants. The Italian Garden pools shimmer with reflections of Biltmore House. Exotic Victoria water platters, canna lilies, papyrus and lotus thrive here in the summer months. The Asheville Gazette described this garden party as “among the most elaborate and largest celebrations held at Biltmore House” since the estate was established. The write-up included details such as “the beautiful array of summer gowns of the many dancers made a scene as beautiful as that of gay moths and fireflies in a fairy garden,” and noted that a buffet supper was served at midnight. Celebrating Biltmore in Bloom Today, we continue to honor the Vanderbilt traditions of celebrating spring by bringing the outdoors into Biltmore House. Look for special floral arrangements throughout America’s Largest Home® during Spring at Biltmore. Plan your spring getaway today Experience Biltmore in full bloom Our restaurants and shops across the estate celebrate spring, too, with delicious seasonal menus and artful arrangements in each venue, plus special packages at The Inn on Biltmore Estate® and Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate®. Plan your special spring getaway today! Featured image: Edith and Cornelia Vanderbilt in a flower-covered carriage for a spring parade in Biltmore Village, May 25, 1905
Biltmore Wines and Spring Gift Ideas Posted on February 28, 2020 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton Biltmore wines and spring gift ideas make perfect partners to help you celebrate all the holidays and occasions warmer weather brings. Spring gift ideas Biltmore wines make perfect gifts for spring From special days for Moms and Dads to wedding registries and graduations, we’ve put together a helpful list for pairing your favorite Biltmore wines with our fresh and fabulous spring gift ideas! Make Mother’s Day special Enjoy all our Limited Release wines, including Roussanne, this summer! Let Mom know how special she is this Mother’s Day with a gift inspired by the gracious hospitality for which the Vanderbilt family was famous. Choose an exclusive design from our heirloom-quality Southern Gates® sterling silver jewelry collection to remind your mother how much she means to you. In addition, our Vanderbilt Service Tea for One, featuring pretty porcelain pieces drawn from the details of an original set used in Biltmore House, gives Mom a relaxing way to make time for herself. Wine suggestions: Pair these thoughtful spring gift ideas with great wine options like our soft, elegant Biltmore Estate Pinot Noir with wild cherry aromas, delicate raspberry flavors, and smooth tannins, or our delightful, light pink Biltmore Estate Blanc de Noir sparkling wine featuring flavors of cherries and strawberries. Delight your Dad Offer a toast to Dad this Father’s Day with his favorite Biltmore wine Give Dad a gift of distinction with our handsome Lioncrest Bookends. The lifelike detailing makes them the perfect accessory for home or office. Is your father on the go? Treat him to a sophisticated new Biltmore Renaissance Overnighter Bag. Locally made, the entire collection is guaranteed for life. For dads who appreciate fine wines, consider our handsome Vanderbilt Wine Chillers featuring George Vanderbilt’s monogram. Available in two sizes and two elegant finishes, the chillers make it easy to serve Dad’s favorite wines in style. Wine suggestions: Full-bodied with complex aromas, our Antler Hill Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley offers layers of bold fruit plus a lingering finish. Perfect now, it also has excellent aging potential. Also consider our Biltmore Estate Limited Release Sémillon—a dry white wine that is silky and palate-coating with zesty citrus aromas and fresh melon flavors. Great gifts for graduates Biltmore wines are perfect for warm weather sipping! As they cross into their next phase of life, nothing says “congratulations, graduate” better than a thoughtful piece of jewelry like our estate-inspired Crossings Necklace and matching Earrings from the elegant Southern Gates® collection for a statement that can be handed down through the generations. Wine suggestions: Pair these great spring gift ideas for grads with our rich, fruit-forward Biltmore Estate Limited Release Malbec featuring intense spice, blueberry, and plum aromas, our Biltmore Century Sweet White Wine—a semi-sweet blend with aromas of roses and fresh mint, or our elegant and refreshing Biltmore Estate Dry Rosé with a subtle, fruit-forward bouquet followed by layers of delicate berry flavors. Happily ever-afters Include Biltmore wines in your Valentine’s Day celebration! From proposals and marriage ceremonies to honeymoons, Biltmore has always been a desirable destination for romance. Our exclusive gifts give you a wide range of unique ideas to make any romantic event more special. For the gift registries and wish-lists of the bride-to-be, newlyweds, or first-time homeowners, consider our estate-inspired lamps and rugs as beautiful options they’ll treasure for years to come. Wine suggestions: Make any celebration more special with ourfinest sparkling wine—Biltmore Estate Blanc de Blancs. Crafted from North Carolina Chardonnay grapes and featuring tiny bubbles, this golden wine bursts forth with tropical and citrus flavors. Another inspired idea? Give the happy couple a gift membership in our Vanderbilt Wine Club, and they’ll think of you every time their seasonal shipments arrive! Find it all online Look for all Biltmore wines online From birthdays to baby announcements, find unique treasures online and pair your purchases with our award-winning Biltmore wines–they make perfect gifts for spring occasions (or any time of year)!
Perfect Pairings: Red Wine and Chocolate at Biltmore Posted on January 7, 2020 at 3:58 pm.Written by Jean Sexton If you’re looking for a match made in heaven, look no farther than the Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting offered daily at Biltmore’s Winery. How it works “Pairing red wines with chocolates is an exciting way to discover nuances in both flavors,” said Les Norman, one of several knowledgeable Winery hosts who guide guests through the tasting. Biltmore Winery host Les Norman guides guests through the Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting “Biltmore has partnered with French Broad Chocolates to provide several different delectable chocolates to pair with some of our premium Biltmore wines,” Les said. “In some cases, this local artisan chocolate company that specializes in bean-to-bar products has created a new flavor to match specific characteristics in a certain wine.” Pouring Biltmore red wines for the Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting Getting started Les likes to begin the tasting with a bit of background about Biltmore Winery and the award-winning wines handcrafted there. He offers guests a fascinating glimpse into the estate’s vineyards, production methods, and winemaking philosophy under the direction of Winemaker Sharon Fenchak. Enjoy our Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting featuring premium Biltmore wines and artisan chocolate truffles from French Broad Chocolates. Once he sets the scene, Les describes the process of tasting wines, and has participants take a fun jellybean “test” to better understand how smell and taste affect sensory perceptions. Pairing red wines and chocolates “Now we’re ready to pair our red Biltmore wines with chocolates!” Les declares. Les makes sure guests take time to savor the bouquet of each wine and understand its flavor profile as they taste the possibilities. He offers interesting details about viscosity and alcohol content, effortlessly blending his extensive knowledge of wines with the delightful pairings. A fresh raspberry truffle pairs perfectly with our Antler Hill Zinfandel Rockpile 2017 The tasting continues with amazing pairings of some of our premium red wines with exceptional chocolate truffles crafted by locally owned French Broad Chocolates. Some truffles work well with several of the wines, so be sure to save a sip or two in each glass! Discover the delights of red wine and chocolate Biltmore Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting at the Winery Our Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting is offered daily at the Winery at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. The cost is $55 per person, and capacity is limited to 10 guests for each one-hour event. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for these popular daily tastings. To reserve, you must have a daytime ticket, a Biltmore Annual Pass, or an overnight stay booked at one of our properties. Guests must be 21 years of age and older with a valid ID to attend this or any other specialty wine experience. To reserve your spot, call 1800-543-2961 or visit any Guest Services location on the estate.
Highlights From Our 2019 Vineyard Harvest Posted on January 3, 2020 at 10:19 am.Written by Jean Sexton In 2019, Biltmore’s vineyard produced 177.5 tons of grapes on approximately 45 acres of mature vitis vinifera vines—that’s almost double last year’s output. Biltmore vineyard supervisor Philip Oglesby “Harvest began on August 22, and that’s the earliest start I remember in more than 20 years,” said Philip Oglesby, Vineyard Supervisor. “We picked until October 11, and the weather cooperated with long, hot, dry days that allowed the grapes to mature to their full potential.” With an average yield of more than four tons per acre, our 2019 harvest can be considered one of the best in recent memory. Grapes being picked by hand in Biltmore’s vineyard Quantity and quality In addition to the quantity, the quality of fruit produced in 2019 was outstanding. Weather played an important role in the process as relatively mild spring temperatures gave way to the kind of hot, dry summer conditions that create earlier-than-normal ripening times. Grapes for our Biltmore Reserve wines are grown at the estate or selected from local partners “As always, we look forward to the fine wines that will be handcrafted following the harvest—especially our Biltmore® Reserve wines that are created from estate-grown grapes,” Philip said. “This special designation represents our finest local vintages and our continued commitment to our agricultural heritage.” Highlights from Biltmore’s vineyards: Cabernet Franc 37 tons on 8.2 acres Cabernet Sauvignon 32 tons on 10.2 acres Chardonnay 103 tons on 25 acres Merlot 5.5 tons on 1.2 acres Total: 177.5 tons on 44.6 acres Highlights from our partner vineyards Grapes ripening in Biltmore’s vineyard Washington: Biltmore winemaker Sharon Fenchak selected approximately 160 tons of grapes from the state of Washington (America’s second largest producer of wine grapes), with average brix (measurement for the number of grams of sugar present per 100 grams of liquid) around 25, which is comparable to last year. September was very rainy and a hard freeze in early October preventing the grapes from ripening further. Varietals: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Mourvedre, Petite Verdot, and Tempranillo. Increased selection by 12% compared to 2018. As the grapes ripen in our vineyards, the fruit must be protected from uninvited guests such as robins, geese, and turkeys. California: Sharon selected approximately 25 different varietals from multiple growing regions throughout the state with an average brix of 23, which was slightly higher than 2018. Arroyo Seco, CA Approximately 18,000 acres located along the central coast in Monterey County. Cold winter, mild-but-wet spring, and a few summertime heat spikes left grapes with a little more hang-time and a later harvest by about 2–3 weeks. Varietals: Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat, Chenin Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. Mendocino County, CA North coast; 14, 512 acres includes 10 different American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) with very diverse climates. Wet spring and late bud break gave way to moderate weather for most of the growing season; yields were light-to-average, with good fruit quality for the vintage. Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. Russian River Valleyin Sonoma County, CA About 15,000 acres of vineyards; known for cool-climate grapes. Heavy rain in late winter and a wet spring led to a moderate yield with a good and healthy crop. Varietals: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel. We selected about 120 tons of fruit from the region, with the majority being Pinot Noir, of which about half will be handcrafted to become Vanderbilt Reserve wines. Tempranillo is a great way to spice up your wine selections Savor Biltmore Wines Whether you’re visiting the estate and enjoying complimentary tastings at our Winery or stocking up on your favorite varietals in your neighborhood or online, we invite you to savor our award-winning wines today!
Romance Sparkles at Biltmore Posted on December 2, 2019 at 9:30 am.Written by Jean Sexton In addition to being America’s Largest Home®, Biltmore also features a state-of-the-art working winery. There are other distinctions that set Biltmore’s Winery apart, such as the fact that our winemaker crafts both still and sparkling wines here. It’s unusual to offer both—most wineries specialize in one or the other—but Biltmore has a long history of doing the unexpected. Our sparkling legacy One reason for our sparkling wine program is to honor the legacy of Edith Stuyvesant Vanderbilt’s family. Edith Stuyvesant Dresser’s formal engagement photo, 1898 On May 31, 1898, the Asheville Citizen reported the following story in connection with the upcoming marriage of George Vanderbilt and his fiancée Edith Stuyvesant Dresser: The wine with which the health of the bride is to be drunk at the wedding breakfast of Miss Edith Stuyvesant Dresser and George Vanderbilt Thursday has a history, according to the Washington Post. Many years ago the wine cellar of Daniel Le Roy, one of the pioneer summer residents of Newport, was famous, and large sums were offered for what remained of it when Mr. Le Roy died. None of this famous wine was ever sold, but as the stock decreased Mrs. Le Roy directed that it should not be used except at the wedding of her grandchildren and their descendants, a certain number of bottles being apportioned to each. “Once we discovered this story,” said Jill Whitfield, senior marketing manager for Biltmore Wines. “We wanted to share the details so that everyone could enjoy it. It continues to inspire us as we create different styles of sparkling wines perfect for all celebrations,” Jill said. Isn’t it romantic? Romance features a stunning floral label Our Biltmore Estate® Romance Brut honors that charming gesture. Romance is handcrafted from grapes selected from our California vineyard partners, including a hint of Pinot Noir that shows up in its delicate rosy straw color. The soft bouquet offers hints of citrus, apple, and brioche, while fine, tiny bubbles give way to flavors of white peach and a surprisingly creamy mouthfeel. Pair it with your favorite party fare including prosciutto-wrapped melon, chicken salad croissants, brie, and—of course—wedding cake! In addition to being an exceptional sparkling wine, Romance features a lovely floral label that enhances any special occasion, from bridal showers and receptions to engagements and anniversaries. Handcrafted in traditional style Our sparkling wines are handcrafted in the traditional style “All our sparkling wines are handcrafted in the traditional méthode champenoise,” said Jill. “This process requires a secondary fermentation in the bottle, and is vital for developing the delicate bubbles that characterize outstanding sparkling wines.” Let the party bubble up! Sip Pas de Deux Sec with food or create sparkling cocktails If you’re looking for a versatile sparkling wine that pairs well with a surprising variety of foods, opt for our Pas de Deux® Moscato Sparkling Wine. “This semi-sweet sparkler has a slight orange aroma that complements its flavor profiles, plus flavors of wild strawberry and lemon,” said Jill. “Our Pas de Deux is a delightful addition to sweet treats such as fresh fruit, pound cake, and crème brûlée, and it’s a perfect partner for spicy cuisines,” Jill noted. “And it was recently awarded 90 points by Beverage Testing Institute!” More great ratings Put Biltmore Estate Brut on your “bucket list!” Our Biltmore Estate® Brut recently earned 90 Points + Editor’s Choice from Wine Enthusiast, making it another excellent choice for celebrations or any occasion that calls for bubbly. “It’s a refreshing blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir ,” Jill said, “and it offers a good balance of citrus and strawberries with hints of honey and apricot.” Our finest sparkling Biltmore sparkling wines are characterized by fine, tiny bubbles For a truly elegant gesture, Jill suggests serving our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Blanc de Blancs. “This is our finest sparkling wine,” Jill said. “It is crafted from North Carolina Chardonnay grapes and features tiny, elegant bubbles that burst to release tropical and citrus flavors. If you want to make an impression on someone special, this is the wine to choose.” Celebrate any occasion with Biltmore sparkling wines No matter what you’re serving or celebrating, pair your good times with Biltmore wines!
Biltmore Holiday Wine Guide Posted on October 17, 2019 at 4:08 pm.Written by Jean Sexton To share the warmth and cheer of Biltmore wines, we’ve created our Holiday Wine Guide to help you make the most of this special season. “The Holiday Wine Guide covers all the different celebrations from Thanksgiving to New Year’s,” said Jill Whitfield, senior wine marketing manager. “There are recommendations for each special occasion, including thanking your hosts and having gifts on-hand for surprise guests.” Holiday Entertaining with Wines Look for all Biltmore wines online “For general holiday entertaining, Biltmore® Estate Cabernet Sauvignon–awarded 95 points in the prestigious San Francisco International Wine Competition–and Biltmore Estate® Pinot Grigio, which received 90 points from the Beverage Testing Institute, are a great place to start,” Jill said. Jill recommends rounding out your selections with our Biltmore® Reserve Rosé North Carolina 2018, Vanderbilt Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Dry Creek Valley 2017, and our bubbly Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine. Your Thanksgiving Table Our Thanksgiving Trio brings everyone to the table Whether you’re adding a leaf to your table to accommodate a crowd or traveling out of town to visit family, Biltmore wines pair perfectly with everything from turkey and dressing to flavorful new “Friendsgiving” favorites. “Our special Thanksgiving Trio featuring Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay North Carolina 2018, Vanderbilt Reserve Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2017, and Biltmore Estate® Brut makes it easy to pair all your holiday favorites with a fine wine,” said Jill. “If you want to add a bit more variety, Biltmore Estate® Dry Rosé and Biltmore Estate® Merlot are great wines for delighting your guests.” Wrap-up Gift Giving with Biltmore Wines Enjoy the process of stocking and storing Biltmore wines Simplify holiday shopping by sharing the gift of Biltmore wines. They make a thoughtful gift for anyone on your list or a special thank-you to your hosts for including you in their celebration. Consider options such as The Hunt Red Blend Sonoma County 2017, which earned 91 points from Critics Challenge, our charming Mariporta Red Dessert Wine, long-time guest favorite Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest, our lightly sweet Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Chenin Blanc, or our finest sparkling–Biltmore Estate® Château Reserve Blanc de Blancs North Carolina 2017, handcrafted from outstanding locally-grown grapes. Savor Christmas with Biltmore Wines When planning your virtual wine tasting, choose at least three wines to sample together Showcase your Christmas Eve gathering, Christmas Day Brunch, and Christmas Day Dinner with our most versatile, food-friendly wines to complement any cuisine. “Our Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc earned 91 points in the San Francisco International Wine Competition,” Jill said, “while Critics Challenge awarded our Antler Hill® Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2015 93 points. We think you’ll also enjoy sharing our Biltmore Estate® Riesling, Biltmore® Reserve Viognier North Carolina 2018, and our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Malbec with your special guests.” New Year’s: Ready, Set, Celebrate! Our handcrafted Biltmore bubbles make any occasion more special For a more memorable midnight on New Year’s Eve or a brunch featuring traditional favorites the following day, be sure to include our sparkling wine, handcrafted in the time-honored méthode champenoise that creates the finest bubbles. “Shake things up with our Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Noir,” suggested Jill. “Not only is it delicious, but the soft coral color makes it a feast for the eyes, too!” Sparkling wines may be traditional for New Year’s, but Jill recommends considering a range of other options including our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Gewürztraminer, Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Tempranillo, Biltmore Estate® Pinot Noir, and Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay. Enjoying Our Wines at Home for the Holidays For the holidays, we’ve bundled the best of our award-winning wines to help you simplify your celebrations (and save)! “If you’re ready to re-stock your wine reserves, you can find Biltmore wines close to home with our Retail Locator,” said Jill. Join the Vanderbilt Wine Club® Enjoy members-only events like our annual Christmas party Give a year of wine to someone special with a gift membership in our Vanderbilt Wine Club. Members receive three hand-selected Biltmore wines each season, shipped direct to your door, and the first club shipment ships free. In addition, members save up to 25% on all wine purchases online or at the estate, plus complimentary premium wine tastings, access to first release wines, members-only events, and much more.
Crowdsourcing Biltmore’s 2019 Christmas Wine Labels Posted on October 9, 2019 at 3:10 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Thank you for enjoying this archived information about our 2019 Christmas at Biltmore wine labels! Ready to pour on the cheer this holiday season? We’re excited to share the process of crowdsourcing our 2019 Christmas at Biltmore® Wine labels!“In previous years, we held a competition for artists to share their interpretation of what Christmas at Biltmore means to them,” said Jill Whitfield, senior wine marketing manager. “We chose several finalists, then asked our online audience to vote for their favorite design.” Crowdsourcing for creativity In 2018, Biltmore Wines decided to shake things up a bit. Instead of asking artists to submit their work, they asked our Facebook followers to help them develop that year’s Christmas label, one step at a time. It worked so well that we decided to repeat the process of crowdsourcing our 2019 Christmas at Biltmore Wine labels. Creating mood boards Mood boards featuring #Frosty and #Cozy elements “First, we worked with Biltmore’s art team to create a pair of mood boards,” Jill explained. “One featured #Frosty elements including a palette of cool, wintry colors and silvery metallics. The other was #Cozy, with warmer tones and sparkling gold ornaments. We then posted them on Facebook and asked our fans and followers to vote for their favorite mood.” Setting the tone For the second phase of voting, Lisa Vogel, Art Director, pulled together two “tone” boards so voters could choose between themes representing a #Vintage look represented by an old-fashioned Christmas card and a #Modern look with a clean graphic feel.Facebook fans liked both of the themes, but their final preference was for #Vintage. Boards with #Contemporary and #Vintage themes Crowd favorite With the mood and theme decided, it was time to get Asheville artist Jeff Pittman involved in the project. He drew inspiration from the boards to create two representations of Biltmore on which Facebook followers would have the final vote.Both #Vista and #Reflections were popular, but #Reflections—featuring the west façade of Biltmore House on the hill above the Lagoon—was the winner.Jeff refined the initial #Reflections painting he created with more detail and a few more festive touches. “Everyone loved both of Jeff Pittman’s offerings” said Lisa, “but I think it may have been the peaceful pair of Canadian geese crossing the Lagoon that made #Reflections such a crowd favorite!” Jeff Pittman’s two representations of a Biltmore Christmas scene Creating original artwork What happened next? “Jeff went to work in his studio,” Lisa said, “and created the final artwork that would become the labels for our 2019 Christmas at Biltmore Red Wine and Christmas at Biltmore White Wine.” Jeff Pittman at work on the 2019 Christmas at Biltmore Wine label The finished label celebrates the natural splendor of this special season at Biltmore. “The voters made it clear what they wanted,” said Jill, “and that’s why crowdsourcing is such a great way to engage your audience—it gives your most loyal followers a voice in what you’re creating for them.” Finished artwork in Jeff’s studio Join us at the Winery on the following dates in November and December to meet artist Jeff Pittman and have your bottles of Christmas at Biltmore Red Wine and Christmas at Biltmore White Wine signed by him. Meet the artist November 8, 4 p.m.–6 p.m. December 13, 4 p.m.–6 p.m. Pour on the cheer with Biltmore wines Choose any of our fine wines for holiday celebrations Purchase any of our fine wines—including Christmas at Biltmore Red Wine (soft and fruit-forward with flavors of berry and spice to complement holiday dishes including ham, turkey, and blackberry pie à la mode) and Christmas at Biltmore White Wine (fragrant and semi-sweet with flavors of apricot, spice, and citrus to pair with holiday dishes like sweet potato casserole, apple pie, and pumpkin pie)—at estate shops or online.
Biltmore Wines Make Great Gifts Posted on September 16, 2019 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton The holidays are a wonderful time to celebrate with friends and family and enjoy favorite foods, special desserts, and great memories. This year, we suggest you make seasonal gift-giving easy with Biltmore wines. From refreshing blends and food-friendly favorites to elegant sparkling wines, you’re sure to find a perfect pairing for everyone on your list. A “century” of taste and style Enjoy the process of stocking and storing Biltmore wines Our Biltmore Century Sweet Red Wine and Century Sweet White Wine were developed to honor Biltmore’s centennial celebration. These approachable red and white blends are easy-to-drink and complement a wide variety of dishes, and the beautifully etched bottles make a special keepsake of your Biltmore experience—or provide inspiration for another visit! Add sparkle to the season Our handcrafted Biltmore bubbles make any occasion more special According to Biltmore winemaker Sharon Fenchak, sparkling wines are surprisingly versatile and go very well with many foods. “Don’t just save them for a special toast—make any occasion a celebration when you uncork the Biltmore bubbles!” said Sharon.We recommend keeping a few bottles on hand in case unexpected guests drop by during the holidays, or taking our festive sparkling wines with you as a thoughtful hostess gift. The perfect Christmas present 2019 Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wine labels There’s no better way to commemorate the holidays than with our Christmas at Biltmore Wine, available in red and white styles! The label features new original artwork each year that captures the magic of Christmas at Biltmore, making the wine an easy-to-give annual gift. We enjoy pairing these slightly sweeter wines with classic seasonal desserts like pumpkin pie and sugar cookies. An elegant gift The Hunt Red Blend Sonoma County Inspired by the classic sporting life the Vanderbilts and their guests enjoyed at Biltmore, The Hunt is a truly exceptional wine. Aged for about 18 months in French and American oak barrels, this robust, Bordeaux-style red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot is delicious by the glass and pairs well with many of the rich flavors of the holiday season. The Hunt’s label—inspired by the strong lines of an extraordinary August Francotte shotgun in Biltmore’s original collection—makes this wine a truly remarkable gift for wine enthusiasts and those who enjoy the outdoors. Join the club! Find inspiration for virtual gift giving and entertaining with our 2020 Holiday Wine Guide Want to give a gift that keeps on giving year-round? Consider providing someone special with a membership to our Vanderbilt Wine Club! Members receive a shipment of three handcrafted Biltmore wines each quarter, carefully selected to delight wine enthusiasts. In addition, members will enjoy wine notes and special recipes to complement each shipment. Membership includes exclusive access to new and limited releases, discounts on wines, flat-rate shipping, and invitations to join us for events throughout the year. Make your gift giving easy To make your gift-giving even easier, Biltmore wines are available in estate shops, online, and at retailers across the nation.