10 Fast Facts About Biltmore Posted on September 18, 2018 at 12:00 am.Written by Heather Angel Get to know George Vanderbilt’s magnificent 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, with this list of ten fast Biltmore facts. Photograph of George Vanderbilt, a scholar, collector, and patron of the arts who came of age during America’s Gilded Age Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, Biltmore House is the largest privately owned home in the United States and was the Gilded Age vision of George Washington Vanderbilt. Biltmore House was completed in 1895 and is America’s largest privately owned home. 10 Fast Facts About Biltmore Estate George Vanderbilt was born in 1862 in Staten Island, New York. He was the grandson of famed industrialist Cornelius “Commodore” Vanderbilt, who established the Vanderbilt family’s immense wealth during the mid-1800s through shipping and railroad monopolies. Construction of Biltmore House took approximately 6 years.After visiting Asheville, North Carolina, in 1888 with his mother, George Vanderbilt began the process of building his country home. Construction began in 1889 and after 6 years, Biltmore House was first opened to friends and family on Christmas Eve, 1895. Biltmore House is America’s Largest Home.Biltmore House was designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt and spans 175,000 square feet, which is more than four acres of floor space. The 250-room French Renaissance chateau includes 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces. Biltmore’s art collection includes works by Monet, Renoir, and more.Showcased inside Biltmore House is the Vanderbilt family’s original collection, fine art, architectural drawings, furniture, and more, with objects spanning over 92,000 items. With an emphasis on preservation, it’s no surprise Biltmore prides itself on having an in-house conservation department! Biltmore Estate features 75 acres of gardens.Adjacent to Biltmore House are acres of formal and informal gardens designed by renowned American landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted George Vanderbilt married Edith Stuyvesant Dresser in Paris in 1898. Their only child, Cornelia Vanderbilt, was born in the Louis XV Room of Biltmore House in 1900. George passed away unexpectedly following an appendectomy in 1914, leaving the responsibility of managing and preserving of Biltmore Estate to his widow and young daughter. Since 1895, Biltmore has been a pioneer in sustainable land use practices.Biltmore is credited as the Birthplace of American Forestry. Today, Biltmore continues to honor George Vanderbilt’s legacy of preserving the land and protecting the environment through many ecological, recycling, alternative energy programs, and has long operated its farm and field-to-table program. Biltmore Estate is currently 8,000 acres but was around 125,000 acres during Vanderbilt’s lifetime.While the current acreage of Biltmore Estate is approximately 8,000 acres, the acreage during George Vanderbilt’s lifetime was approximately 125,000 acres and included property later sold to the federal government to create Pisgah National Forest, one of the first national forests east of the Mississippi. Biltmore’s modern guests can enjoy outdoor exploration on this private estate.With 8,000 acres of Blue Ridge Mountain estate to discover, today’s guests enjoy Biltmore’s scenic backyard with outdoor activities like biking, carriage rides, hiking, horseback riding, and more. The private estate grounds feature over 22 miles of trails to explore. Biltmore has an award-winning winery on the estate.George Vanderbilt’s grandson, William A.V. Cecil, began planting grapevines in the early 1970s, paving the way for the establishment of Biltmore’s Winery in 1985. Today, our winery is an integral part of a Biltmore visit and is America’s most visited winery. Biltmore’s award-winning wines are available for purchase at estate shops, on shop.biltmore.com, and in select retailers nationwide. Biltmore Estate remains owned, operated, and preserved by George and Edith Vanderbilt’s descendants. A mission of preservation Today, Biltmore is still family-owned and operated under George Vanderbilt’s mission of preservation through self-sufficiency – a philosophy embraced before the first stone was ever placed. Over the years, Biltmore has grown to include Antler Hill Village & Winery, which includes Antler Hill Farm; overnight accommodations, including The Inn on Biltmore Estate–our Forbes Four-Star property, Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate, and our historic Cottages on Biltmore Estate; Equestrian Center; numerous restaurants; event and meeting venues; and a licensed products division. Anter Hill Village offers a charming, European-inspired experience surrounding by Biltmore’s working farms and fields. Ready to learn more? Since 1895, Biltmore has welcomed guests from all over the world to experience the splendor of George Vanderbilt’s visionary estate. No matter the season, an 8,000-acre oasis awaits you. From historic gardens and grounds to outdoor adventure, behind-the-scenes tours, new exhibitions and events, distinctive restaurants, shopping, and an award-winning winery, there is something for everyone at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC.
Host a Sizzling Summer White Party! Posted on July 13, 2018 at 12:00 am.Written by Karina Hux Ready to host a sizzling summer white party? Our estate wine experts have some great tips to help you make the most of the season.“From the Hamptons to Los Angeles, well-known fashion and entertainment celebrities have been hosting elegant ‘white parties’ every summer for many years. With all-white clothing and décor, these iconic events are a celebration of everything warm weather-related and summer-worthy—including white wines,” said Alisha Forester, Sales Director for Biltmore Wines. Will your summer white party be an indoor or outdoor affair? 1. Find the perfect spot Start by choosing your location first, as that sets the tone for your summer white party. Gardens and patios with easy access to the indoors make for a great party, and hosting your event poolside makes a big splash! For outdoor parties, make sure you have a backup plan for weather, plenty of shade, and other conveniences for your guests. Tip: Create classic summer white party style with all-white décor, which can be as simple as white tablecloths and white flowers, especially if you’re celebrating outdoors. Sparkling wines are a must-have for your summer white party! 2. Select some white wines It’s not a summer white party without your favorite Biltmore white wines, and we handcraft wonderful options from still to sparkling. Try these easy white flights–we’ve already arranged the wines for you in order from lighter styles to those with more body: Dry white flight: Biltmore Estate® Pinot Grigio, Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc, Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay, and Biltmore® Reserve North Carolina Chardonnay. Sweet white flight: Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Gewürztraminer, Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Orange Muscat, Century Sweet White, Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Chenin Blanc. Sparkling white flight: Biltmore Estate® Brut, Biltmore Estate® Château Reserve Blanc de Blancs, Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs, Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Noir. Tip: Keep the party kid-friendly with plenty of Biltmore Sparkling White Grape Juice, available in estate gift shops. Panna Cotta with Grapefruit Gelée is a fresh twist on a classic dessert that’s perfect for your summer white party! 3. Pair a signature dish with white wine Delight your guests with this fresh citrusy twist on classic Italian panna cotta with a surprising ingredient: goat cheese. With its characteristic rich flavor, creamy texture, and a bright pop of color, Panna Cotta with Grapefruit Gelée is perfect for an indulgent summer white party treat! Panna Cotta with Grapefruit Gelée Gelée ¾ cup fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice ¼ cup sugar 2 teaspoons (1 packet) unflavored gelatin powder Combine grapefruit juice, sugar, and gelatin powder in a small sauce pan. Whisk well and bring to a boil. Pour 1 ounce of the juice mixture into each of 6 (4-ounce) ramekins. Place the ramekins in the refrigerator to chill until firm, at least 30 minutes. Panna Cotta 3 cups heavy cream ½ cup sugar 7 teaspoons (3½ packets) unflavored gelatin powder 14 ounces goat cheese, softened Combine heavy cream, sugar, and gelatin powder in a medium saucepan. Whisk well and bring to a boil, then immediately remove from heat. Add the softened goat cheese to the mixture and continue to whisk until completely smooth. Divide the goat cheese panna cotta mixture evenly among the ramekins. Pour it over the firmly set grapefruit gelée and refrigerate until set, at least 1 hour. Run a knife between the panna cotta and the ramekin to release and invert onto a plate. If the panna cotta won’t come out, turn it upside down and run hot tap water over the bottom of the ramekin for 30–60 seconds, then gently tap onto a plate Tip: Crisp, sparkling Biltmore Estate® Brut with notes of citrus, strawberry, honey, and apricot is a perfect partner for Panna Cotta with Grapefruit Gelée. Celebrate your summer white party with Biltmore Wines! 4. Celebrate your summer white party Once you’ve chosen your location, selected the Biltmore wines you’ll serve, and created the perfect menu, what’s left? Don your favorite all-white outfit and invite friends and family to join you for a wonderful summer celebration! Cheers!
Biltmore’s Top 5 Most Naturally Romantic Spots Posted on January 9, 2018 at 12:00 am.Written by Amy Dangelico Biltmore Estate’s year-round natural beauty and long tradition of hospitality have earned its recognition as a romantic destination for more than a century. But with 8,000 acres to explore, it can be hard to pick the perfect must-see romantic spot to share with your loved one. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a scenic date, or even proposing to your sweetheart at Biltmore, get inspired with this list of the top five most naturally romantic spots on the estate! 📷 by @sasha_playz_musik 5. Tea House Strategically set on the far west corner of the South Terrace, this romantic spot offers sweeping views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountain vistas. 📷 by @jason.rosa 4. Tennis Lawn & Pergola Tucked away between the Pergola and the Shrub Garden is the Tennis Lawn, an often overlooked “outdoor room” with a fairy-tale view of America’s Largest Home®. 📷 by @rongriswell 3. Conservatory Indoor enchantment awaits in Biltmore’s Conservatory, a private tropical oasis that houses a wide variety of exotic plants beneath its grand glass roof. This romantic spot offers multiple greenhouses to explore with your sweetheart! 📷 by @avidavlhiker 2. Bass Pond Waterfall & Trails An easy stroll down our Azalea Garden path leads to rewarding views of our Bass Pond bridge, Boat House, and, of course, the Bass Pond Waterfall—a picturesque backdrop for many Biltmore proposals! 📷 by @georgebassen 1. Shores of the Lagoon Perfect for a picnic or a pleasant stroll, the shores of Biltmore’s Lagoon offer a number of quiet, romantic spots with a marvelous view of Biltmore House in the distance. 📷 by @t_r_a_v_e_l_n_o_w BONUS! One of our onsite lodging properties An overnight stay on the estate offers the opportunity to wake up on George Vanderbilt’s magnificent estate with your sweetheart. Our four-star Inn, cozy Village Hotel, and private Cottages on Biltmore Estate each offer a distinct and memorable experience for your next romantic getaway. 📷 by Camryn Glackin Romantic Spots on Biltmore Estate to Propose If you’re planning to pop the question during a visit to Biltmore, consider this list of romantic and picturesque locations for your proposal: In a Horse-Drawn Carriage: Couples wishing for some privacy (and a very discreet driver) may take one of our horse-drawn carriages for a gentle journey through forests and pastures, and stopping at the top of a hill that features a stunning view of the back of Biltmore House. At the Statue of Diana, Goddess of the Hunt: After an easy hike to the top of the hill where The Statue of Diana stands, catch your breath and take in the majestic view of Biltmore House with sky and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background. Then proceed! In the South Terrace Tea House: With its gorgeous views of Mount Pisgah and the southern end of Biltmore House, the Tea House is a charming, open-air structure. On top of Biltmore House: The guided Rooftop Tour takes you to the roof for up-close inspections of the home’s structure and intricate carvings. Don’t let the gargoyles and grotesques scare you. They’re harmless. By the Bass Pond Waterfall: This is a more secluded location, below the formal gardens. This location is great in springtime or during October when the leaves are changing colors. During a candlelight dinner: Our estate chefs create incredible meals using fresh ingredients grown right on the estate. On The Inn’s Veranda: Relax with your sweetheart on a grand outdoor veranda where the estate’s sparkling wine can be delivered for your big moment. Under the Pergola next to the South Terrace: This spot by Biltmore House is particularly romantic in springtime when Wisteria vines are blooming. In the Italian Garden: Pop the question by one of the semi-secluded benches in the Italian Gardens. The reflecting pools full of lily pads and other exotic blooms set a soothing tone for an early summer evening proposal. On a scenic picnic: If you like to bike or hike, you can pack a picnic, rent bikes or take one of our many hiking trails for an exciting adventure. Stop at the Lagoon to picnic and pop the question.
Looking Back at the Flood of 1916 Posted on July 16, 2016 at 12:00 pm.Written by Jean Sexton While many of the events in Biltmore’s long history are joyous, some are solemn occasions that have shaped the estate and our community. On September 27, 2024, heavy rain and high winds from Tropical Storm Helene swept through Western North Carolina, causing record-level flooding throughout the region. This natural disaster echoes the Asheville flood of July 16, 1916, when water reached historic levels far beyond the banks of the Swannanoa and French Broad Rivers, causing widespread damage at Biltmore and throughout the western end of the state. As we reflect on the historic flood of 1916, we invite you to discover the stories that have shaped our history and inspire our resilience today. Biltmore Greenhouses, 1916. Courtesy of the National Park Service, Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site. The End of an Era Prior to the flood of 1916, Biltmore’s Nursery was one of the top nurseries in North America. Founded in 1889, it was established to supply the wide variety of trees, shrubs, and other ornamental plants that Frederick Law Olmsted required to complete the estate’s industrious landscape design. It grew to be a beacon within the horticultural world as it opened to public buyers and supplied customers across the United States with unsurpassed variety, quantity, and quality of ornamental plants. The nursery also contributed to George Vanderbilt’s vision of a self-sustaining estate, and provided income at a time when the estate was still under construction. Swannanoa River cutting off Biltmore from Asheville, 1916. North Carolina Collection, Pack Memorial Public Library, Asheville, North Carolina. Biltmore’s Lodge Gate, 1916. North Carolina Collection, Pack Memorial Public Library, Asheville, North Carolina. Uncontrollable changes On March 6, 1914, the estate experienced a crushing loss with the untimely death of George Vanderbilt. Left with a large estate to manage, Mrs. Vanderbilt was already considering downsizing various estate operations, including the nursery. She was also pondering the donation of the Biltmore Herbarium, a subsidiary of the nursery, to a small local educational institution. However, before decisions could be made and implemented, the flood of 1916 provided the last word. The ruin from the flood was so massive that it closed the doors of the nursery’s large-scale commercial operation, destroyed three-fourths of the Biltmore Herbarium, and ruined many rare botanical volumes that were part of the estate’s botanical library. Chauncey Beadle, estate superintendent and head of the Biltmore Nursery, wrote after the flood that “We are heavy losers, something like 85% of our nursery stock having been destroyed.” Flooded field, 1916. Courtesy of the National Park Service, Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site. A Legacy withstanding the test of time While the flood’s damage was permanent, the legacy of the Biltmore Nursery was timeless. The specimens grown at Biltmore before the flood found homes on the estate’s grounds and outside of Biltmore’s gates thanks to the nursery’s commercial success. In particular, the North Carolina Governor’s mansion in Raleigh received a donation of various shrubs and plants in 1898 for the beautification of the Executive Mansion Square. Then in 1908, a shipment of roses and sequoia trees were delivered to Dr. Booker T. Washington at what is now Tuskegee University. Various plants and trees were shipped across the country and overseas before the flood, and continue to thrive at botanic gardens, public parks, universities, and private landscapes. Beadle and Edith Vanderbilt arranged for the surviving parts of the Biltmore Herbarium and botanical library to be salvaged and donated to the Smithsonian Institution. While the flood may have ended the business side of the nursery, the landscapes at Biltmore and beyond serve as a living testament to the vision and business acumen of Frederick Law Olmsted, Chauncey Beadle, and George Vanderbilt.
New Life for an Old House Posted on November 6, 2015 at 12:00 am.Written by Coleman Minter Once an old farmhouse on Biltmore’s West Side, Jones House is now the restored club house for the Biltmore Sporting Clays Club. This remarkable transformation continues to be a contributing building to our national historic landmark designation since May of 1963. Jones House is only one of two homes remaining on the estate from the pre-Vanderbilt era. Reviving the past Biltmore’s Engineering Services team worked hand in hand with architects, the State Historic Preservation Office, and various contractors to adapt Jones House into the Sporting Clays Clubhouse, while preserving portions and features of the building that convey its historical, cultural, and architectural value. This project was completed in December of 2014 and received the 2015 Griffin Award from The Preservation Society of Asheville and Buncombe County in the Adaptive Re-Use category. Jones House was named for the farming family that lived there from 1965–1983. Retaining authentic details Brent Merrell, Director of Engineering Services, reflected on the challenges and rewards of the restoration process. He noted, “I thought I knew a lot about restorations until I got involved. Staying true to the heritage of the house proved to be a large task as the structure had deteriorated during the years it sat vacant—the front left corner of the house was 9 inches higher than the back right corner!” The Jones House was built somewhere between 1879 and 1889, likely by Merritt Roberts, a farmer who sold the land to George Vanderbilt’s agent in 1901. This 1,700 square-foot house was originally designed as a one-story home with a gable roof. Two extensions were later added. Today, the home of the Sporting Clays Club houses a lounge area, retail section, bar, bathrooms, and an upstairs classroom. “We tried to keep as much of the original material as possible, so we removed exterior siding, walls, and the whole floor, and we put them all back down,” said Brent. Details like the original windows were also preserved rather than replaced. A nine-pane window upstairs at the front of the house wasn’t centered originally, so the workers removed the wall that held the window pane and replaced it exactly as it was, offset to the left. Continued preservation efforts The first woolly residents of the Sheep Barn were Southdown sheep, one of which descended from a flock owned by the Prince of Wales. While not always visible to all visitors, the restoration of the Jones House and others, such as the recent restoration of the Sheep Barn, highlights our team’s dedication to conserving, preserving, and restoring historic structures throughout the estate. Designed by farm architect Edward Burnett, the Sheep Barn is currently the oldest structure dedicated to George Vanderbilt’s agricultural legacy. This two-year restoration project focused on preserving key architectural and operational features dating back to its construction in 1890. Originally named the Sheep Shed, it operated as a satellite sheep farm. By 1916, the barn ceased to be used to house sheep and instead was repurposed to shelter Jersey Cattle for the operations of Biltmore Dairy. Restoration began in earnest in 2022 to restore the Sheep Barn to its former glory. Following the original 1890 Burnett plans, numerous architectural elements were restored, such as doors, windows, dormers, and even the historic red and green exterior paint. For an in-depth look at our restoration efforts and the farming operations on the West Side, join us on The Farm to Table Tour & Taste. Thank you for supporting our ongoing preservation efforts during your next Biltmore visit.
Remembering the Forest Fair 1908 Posted on October 16, 2015 at 12:00 am.Written by Karina Hux “Statesman! Lumberman! Engineer! Forester! Come! And be welcome! Come as you are, and take us as we are! Come! Rejoice with us! And join us in giving thanks on Thanksgiving Day, 1908″ ― Dr. Carl Schenck’s Biltmore Forest Fair invitation, 1908 Incoming guests were personally greeted at Biltmore Plaza by Dr. Schenck. Cause for Celebration Biltmore forester Dr. Carl Schenck had reason to celebrate in 1908. After 13 years at Biltmore, including a decade at the head of the Biltmore Forest School, he had helped to transform what was a barren landscape of overused terrain into America’s first managed forest, a model for the rest of the country. To increase public awareness of the revolutionary achievements on Biltmore’s 100,000-plus acres of forested land, Schenck orchestrated the Biltmore Forest Fair—a three-day extravaganza held over Thanksgiving weekend. “This event will mark an epoch in American forestry,” proclaimed The American Lumberman. Botanists, forest engineers, lumbermen, state foresters, furniture manufacturers, statesmen, editors, university professors, paper company representatives, and many others attended the Forest Fair. By Invitation Only An invitation to the Forest Fair was extended to 400 guests, including President-elect William Howard Taft. “You may have heard something of the farms and of the forests found on the Biltmore Estate,” the invitation read. “Now we beg of you: Come and see them for yourself!” Although the president didn’t attend, about 100 people did, including educators, furniture manufacturers, and many timber industry executives from across the US. Dr. Schenck overlooked no detail in the planning of the festival. He even advised guests on attire: “Do not don your best! Select a rough, comfortable suit of clothes and a pair of shoes in which you may walk a quarter of a mile without the sensation of ‘walking on a toothache.’” Each guest received a 55-page booklet detailing Schenck’s forest management techniques, including specifics on tree plantings and costs—proof of his dedication to transparency and education. Festival guests on the trail were escorted by a Biltmore Forest School student to the events. The Forest Fair Begins The fair kicked off on Thanksgiving Day, 1908, with a procession of 15 open carriages “decorated in the Biltmore Forest School colors of green and white,” that made its way from the swanky Battery Park Hotel in downtown Asheville to Biltmore Village. Once on the estate, attendees followed their “tireless leader up and down mountain trails” as he “brushed aside apparently impassible thickets.” What he said is lost to time as “the rapid movements of Dr. Schenck and the rustling of innumerable fallen leaves” made it hard to take exact notes. The guests inspected tree plantings across the estate, then enjoyed Thanksgiving dinner at the Battery Park Inn, during which Schenck led a toast to George Vanderbilt: “a nobly spirited American and as high-principled a man as I ever met.” One attendee reported that the dinner was “in no case indecorous,” but had been “so thorough in a hospitable sense that most of the participants were disinclined to rise at a reasonable early hour” the next day. Friday’s agenda included a visit to the Biltmore herbarium, plant nurseries, dairy, pig farm, and poultry farm, then enjoyed a possum hunt, capping off the evening with a lovely gala dinner. On Saturday, the group made their way to the lumber camps, enjoyed a fishing and shooting contest, and ended the day on Mt. Pisgah in time for sunset, then spent the night “under the stars” at Buck Spring Lodge. An attendee reported that the weather was “of that kind which no memory can recall any nearer perfection” and the scenery so beautiful that “none left the spot willingly.” Mrs. Schenck’s picnic in the wilderness provided guests with lovely hostesses, rest, food, and conversation. Dr. Schenck’s Enduring Legacy The Biltmore Forest School closed its doors in 1913, but Dr. Schenck’s legacy in Western North Carolina can still be felt today by all those who enjoy the pristine beauty of Pisgah National Forest, the forest he helped to establish.Photos provided by Forest History Society of Durham, NC.
A Good Life for Wildlife Posted on October 8, 2015 at 12:00 am.Written by Karina Hux Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, welcomes over a million guests each year—and those are just the ones who come through the gates! In addition to our visitors and Passholders, our 8,000-acre backyard is also home to a wide variety of wildlife and birds, including deer, rabbits, turkeys, and migratory waterfowl. In addition to the colorful sunflowers that bloom in the summer, soybeans, wheat, legumes, and millet are planted in our rich fields on the west side of the estate. Cultivating care across the estate We caught up with Kyle Mayberry, Director of Agriculture, and Vince Helton, Senior Director of Facility Operations, to get the ‘outside’ scoop. “We average about 450 acres of field crops each year and 29 of those acres are designated for wildlife food plots,” Kyle explained. While most of these crops are harvested to feed our cattle, sheep, and other farm animals, there’s still plenty left for wildlife and birds. Smaller plantings of radishes, canola, soybeans, corn, and sorghum are grown around the estate to provide nourishment through the harsh winter months, for our four-legged and feathered friends. Chimney Swifts spend nearly their entire lives in the air, eating, drinking, bathing, and gathering nesting material, landing only to roost and nest. A new home for Chimney Swifts Our dedication to creating a welcoming environment extends far beyond our fields and into some unique conservation projects. One such initiative focused on chimney swifts, a small migratory bird renowned for its spectacular flight patterns and distinctive roosting habits. These birds have been facing challenges as traditional nesting sites become inaccessible. To help, we built a custom-designed chimney swift tower on the estate, providing them with the perfect roosting spot. Biltmore® Grown honey and sunflower oil can be purchased at the Farmyard and in estate shops. The buzz behind Biltmore® Grown Our commitment to the environment extends to our smallest residents too! Busy bees play a key role in producing Biltmore® Grown sunflower oil. They stay hard at work buzzing between over 140,000 blooms, their tireless efforts transforming each blossom into a seed of potential. “We take pride in providing these pollinators with abundant nectar sources across the estate,” Kyle said, “ensuring they have everything they need to create high-quality products, like our sunflower oil and honey, for use in our restaurants and for guests to purchase in our shops.” Strap on your life jackets and get your binoculars ready for a trip down the French Broad on our river birding tour. Discover the call of the wild “Being good stewards of the land applies to the natural wildlife that exists here, and it’s just as important to maintain healthy populations—something we have been committed to since the days of George Vanderbilt,” said Vince. “We follow the NC Wildlife Resources Commission’s recommendations for monitoring and managing wildlife to ensure the safety of our guests, grounds, and wildlife.” As always, our guests’ safety is of paramount concern, and we remind you not to approach estate wildlife or birds. In addition, while dogs are welcomed on estate grounds as long as they are securely leashed, state law prohibits pets from entering fenced enclosures protecting farm animals. Visit our complete wildlife viewing policy here. Interested in learning more? We’ve got plenty of outdoor activities aimed at educating our guests about our wildlife friends and their diverse habitats! Consider going on a guided bird walk or rafting down the French Broad on our river birding tour, participating in a naturalist talk, or getting up close and personal in our falconry class!
National Historic Landmark Designation Illustrates U.S. Heritage Posted on May 1, 2015 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton Biltmore in Asheville, North Carolina was officially nominated as a National Historic Landmark on May 23, 1963. The original landmark designation was based on the theme “Conservation of Natural Resources.” The description for Biltmore was: At Biltmore, the George W. Vanderbilt estate near Asheville, Gifford Pinchot demonstrated for the first time in the United States that scientific forest management could be profitable and was, thus, good business practice. Another ‘first’ in forestry occurred here in 1898 when the first forestry school in the United States was opened, the Biltmore Forest School, headed by Dr. Carl A. Schenck. Nearly 87,000 acres of the estate’s forest land is now included in Pisgah National Forest. The building in which the school was conducted is owned by the city of Asheville and used today for offices. Dr. Carl A. Schenck with Biltmore Forest School students, 1900. Image courtesy of National Forests of North Carolina Historic Photographs, D.H. Ramsey Library Special Collections, University of North Carolina Asheville, Asheville, NC. Beginning in 2000, Biltmore began an effort to expand the landmark designation beyond conservation to include the themes of architecture, landscape architecture, and social history, and to extend the period of significance to 1950 to include the contributions of Chauncey Beadle, estate superintendent, and improvements and significance of the Biltmore Dairy during those years. The Secretary of the Interior approved this expansion on April 5, 2005. Estate Superintendent Chauncey Beadle, 1948 Bill Alexander, Biltmore’s former landscape and forest historian and participant in the five-year project of gathering additional documentation for the expanded designation, said that Biltmore has to submit periodic reports to the National Park Service to describe any changes occurring to the property, including natural disasters and damage such as the floods and tree loss caused by Hurricanes Frances and Ivan in 2005. He also noted that the building referenced in the original nomination is located in Biltmore Village. “The office building at 1 Biltmore Plaza was where the Biltmore Forest School held its fall and winter classes for a number of years,” Bill said. “It was the first new, permanent structure completed in Biltmore Village after George Vanderbilt purchased the village in 1894, followed by the passenger train depot in 1895 and All Souls Church in 1896, all designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt.” 1 Biltmore Plaza in Biltmore Village, 1895 “Biltmore sold the office building to the City of Asheville in 1929, and leased the downstairs for corporate offices while the upstairs was used as a substation of the Asheville Fire Department.” Biltmore eventually repurchased the building and currently uses it for office space. The National Park Service lists more than 2,500 historic properties “that illustrate the heritage of the United States.” National Historic Landmarks include historic buildings, sites, structures, objects, and districts, with each landmark representing an outstanding aspect of American history and culture. Plan your visit to Biltmore today and enjoy the splendor of this National Historic Landmark.
Vanderbilt-Inspired Picnic Recipes & Tips Posted on April 3, 2012 at 1:00 pm.Written by Heather Angel A picnic while visiting Biltmore is a great way to enjoy the pastoral views of the historic estate’s sprawling gardens and grounds, similar to the Vanderbilts and their guests over a century ago. Make the most of your next picnic with these expert tips plus estate chef recipes for a Vanderbilt-inspired picnic complete with Biltmore wine pairings. Pauline Dresser, Edith Vanderbilt’s sister, attending a picnic in Langrolay-sur-Rance, France, 1895. Picnicking with the Vanderbilts During the Victorian era, picnics were often elaborate, and creating a suitably “rustic” ambiance might require more effort than a formal banquet. Hampers full of special delicacies were carried to remote outdoor locations along with a bewildering array of china and glassware, chairs, cushions, ground covers, tents, sunshades, games, and amusements—plus all the children, pets, and any guests who happened to be visiting. Picnic Island in the Lagoon on Biltmore Estate, circa 1900. On Biltmore Estate, the Vanderbilt family enjoyed picnics at a special location known as “Picnic Island,” which you can see situated in the Lagoon. At Edith Vanderbilt’s request, a swinging bridge (no longer there) was added for easy access to Picnic Island and estate rangers ensured there was no poison ivy growing there—a task modern picnickers know all too well! We also know that Mrs. Vanderbilt planned a picnic in May of 1915 on nearby Busbee Mountain, and we have multiple picnic baskets, metal serveware and food canisters included, in our archival collection. Be sure to pack Biltmore Wines for your next picnic! Try these modern-day expert picnic tips: Thank goodness today’s picnics are much simpler! By keeping everything quick and easy, you can enjoy the entire experience from start to finish—even without chairs and fine china. Here are a few tips from our estate experts. Choose a location that offers a scenic view to take in nature’s beauty for your next picnic at Biltmore! Slice a loaf of fresh bread and your favorite cheese into wedges (eliminates the need for utensils), then pair it with wine. Consider our refreshing Biltmore Sauvignon Blanc with goat cheeses or our Cabernet Sauvignon with savory smoked Gouda. Bring along finger-friendly foods such as olives, nuts, and fresh veggies or fruit for a little extra texture. Make a variety of sandwiches the night before. That way, you can be ready to picnic the next day with no prep. Sandwiches also mean you don’t have to bring many separate items—everything’s already combined into a tasty package. Set the scene with a few special touches, such as fresh flowers or a favorite quilt as a picnic cloth. A sparkling wine like our Biltmore Estate Pas de Deux Sparkling makes any occasion special—and won’t leave a stain if spilled on cloth. Grab-and-go snacks or light bites from an estate restaurant or shop are also a great option for a memorable picnic at Biltmore without the fuss. (Please note: Guests with estate admission, an overnight stay, or an Annual Pass are permitted to picnic on Biltmore Estate. If picnicking on the estate, outside food is only permitted in designated areas. Outside alcohol and tailgating—including the use of tents, grills, multiple camping chairs/tables, and large coolers—are not permitted anywhere on estate grounds.) A picnic is a picturesque way to enjoy the great outdoors throughout the seasons on Biltmore Estate. 📸 by @camrynglackin Try these Biltmore-inspired picnic recipes: Whether you are taking in the views at Biltmore or relaxing at your local park, here are a few recipes and wine pairings our estate chefs recommend for enjoying your next picnic Vanderbilt-style. Holiday Bacon Deviled Eggs Harvest Turkey Sandwich with Blackberry-Whole Grain Mustard Herb Marinated Grilled Vegetables Smoked Mozzarella and Gemelli Salad Mudslide Cookies Holiday Bacon Deviled Eggs Pair with Biltmore Estate Blanc de Blancs Serves 24 Ingredients: 12 hard-boiled eggs 1/2 cup mayonnaise 4 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled 2 tablespoons finely shredded Cheddar cheese 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon pepper Method: Slice eggs in half lengthwise; remove yolks and set whites aside. In a small bowl, mash yolks. Stir in the mayonnaise, bacon, cheese, mustard and pepper. Pipe into egg whites. Refrigerate or keep cool until serving. Harvest Turkey Sandwich with Blackberry-Whole Grain Mustard Pair with Biltmore Pinot Noir Yields one sandwich. Ingredients: 2 slices of focaccia bread, toasted Small handful of fresh baby arugula 2 slices of cooked bacon 2 oz of sliced brie 5 oz of smoked turkey, thinly sliced Blackberry-Whole Grain Mustard* Blackberry-Whole Grain Mustard Ingredients: 3 fresh blackberries 1/2 oz Whole Grained Mustard Method: Prepare the mustard by mashing the berries and mix with mustard and set aside. Toast the focaccia, spread the mustard on the top portion of the bread after it is toasted, place the turkey on the bottom, then the sliced brie and add the bacon and arugula and lastly place the top of the focaccia and serve. Herb Marinated Grilled Vegetables Pair with Biltmore Sauvignon Blanc Yields about 6 servings Ingredients: 2 zucchini, sliced 1/4 inch thick 2 yellow squash, sliced 1/4 inch thick 2 portabella mushrooms, remove gills 1 red bell pepper, seeds and stem removed, cut in 6 pieces 1 bunch asparagus, remove bottom two inches and discard 1 red onion, sliced 1/4 inch thick 1 vine-ripe tomato, sliced 1/4 inch thick 2 garlic cloves, minced 6 oz olive oil 1/2 bunch flat leaf parsley, chopped 2 sprigs rosemary, chopped 6 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped Salt and pepper to taste Method: Place oil, garlic, and herbs in a large mixing bowl and stir together. Add all remaining vegetables to bowl except portabellas. Toss vegetables with oil mixture. On a separate plate, rub the portabella with some of the oil mixture on both sides of it. Let vegetables marinate for 10–15 minutes at room temperature. Drain any excess oil off of the vegetables and grill each piece for 1–2 minutes on each side. If the grill flares up, remove more oil from the vegetables. Place vegetables on a platter. Can be served hot or chilled. Smoked Mozzarella and Gemelli Salad Pair with Biltmore Pinot Grigio Yields 8-10 servings Ingredients: 3/4 pound Smoked Mozzarella, large diced 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese – grated 1 pound Gemelli pasta 1/2 cup spinach, julienne 1 large red bell peppers, julienne 3/4 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 1/4 cup parsley, chopped 1/2 cup red onion, small dice 1 tablespoon +2 teaspoon garlic, minced 1/4 cup sour cream 1 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon honey 1/8 teaspoon Tabasco 1 teaspoon kosher salt Method: In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook pasta until just tender to the bite. Drain and shock in ice water. Drain again thoroughly and place in large mixing bowl. Add smoked mozzarella, parmesan, spinach, red peppers, red onion, and parsley. In a separate bowl, assemble dressing by adding mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, red wine vinegar, honey, lemon juice, Tabasco, black pepper, and salt. Whisk together. Add dressing to pasta mix and toss together gently, using a rubber spatula. Refrigerate until needed. Mudslide Cookies Pair with Biltmore Estate Blanc de Noir Yields 1 dozen large cookies or 4 dozen small cookies Ingredients: 8 oz. chocolate, unsweetened 1 pound, 8 oz. chocolate, bittersweet 4 oz. butter 8 each eggs 1 pound, 8 oz. sugar 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 4 oz. cake flour 2 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 pound, 12 oz. chocolate chips 8 oz. walnuts Method: Melt the chocolates and butter together. Beat together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Add the chocolate mixture to the egg mixture. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the chocolate chips and walnuts. Dough will firm as it sits. Scoop and bake at 325 F for 10–14 minutes.