Un-Herd Facts about Biltmore Agriculture Posted on August 7, 2024 at 8:00 am.Written by Karina Hux Did you know there’s a wilder side to Biltmore Estate—one that has served as the foundation of our farming heritage since the beginning? We caught up with Kyle Mayberry, Director of Agriculture, and Kimber Jones, Environmental Programs Coordinator, to fill us in on some fascinating facts about Biltmore’s agricultural programs. Archival estate view of farm village. 1. We are deeply rooted in history “In 1889, George Vanderbilt and Frederick Law Olmsted, the estate’s landscape architect, shared a vision of blending agriculture with sustainability and innovation,” said Kimber Jones. “They wanted to supply Biltmore Estate with a bounty of meats, poultry, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products while pioneering new farming techniques that would serve as a model for the region.” Guests at The Inn have the chance to spot our herd hard at work grazing the fields. 2. We farm a lot of land Biltmore Estate spans 8,000 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville, NC. 2,500 acres are devoted to farmland, vineyards, pastures, cropland, and greenhouses. 75 acres are dedicated to vineyards producing award-winning wines. 6,000 acres are managed forests. One way we continue our farming legacy is by raising some of the same heritage breeds that George Vanderbilt favored like these Berkshire hogs. 3. We raise diverse livestock 500–700 Black Angus cattle roam the grounds. 20 are bulls. About 125 calves are born each spring and fall to 300 mama cows. 120–200 Berkshire hogs contribute to the estate’s sustainable agriculture program. There are 150–200 Dorper sheep on the property. 41 goats maintain our grounds as grazers. 500 chickens supply 1,200 fresh eggs weekly. 2 Jersey cows and their calves are direct descendants of George’s original prized dairy herd. Biltmore Dairy was the most successful enterprise on the estate, providing a financial cushion that paved the way for future innovation. Our tomato plants mature in roughly 68 days, providing the freshest ingredients for many guests’ favorite dishes. 4. We mean it when we say farm-to-table Our farm-to-table philosophy is more than a trend—it’s a way of life. 6 estate restaurants showcase the bounty of our endeavors with menus that feature meat and produce raised and harvested on-site. Biltmore® Grown ingredients are sourced directly from our fields, gardens, and greenhouses. 100% of hamburgers served on the estate are estate-raised meats. Bistro’s dry-aged beef ribeye and tenderloin is aged for 35 days or more. 8,000 square feet of controlled hydroponics space is dedicated exclusively to growing various artisan lettuces, specialty greens, herbs, edible flowers, and heirloom tomatoes. Each week about 1,000 heads of lettuce is harvested for our restaurants. Our “buy local” program boosts small-scale farming and reduces carbon footprints by partnering with local farmers and food producers to source the highest quality ingredients for our restaurants. You can find an assortment of farm fresh products, ready to be enjoyed, at the Farmyard and in estate shops. 5. We have many specialty products Our diverse portfolio of Biltmore wines at the Winery are handcrafted from grapes grown on the estate. Honey is harvested from 100 beehives on the estate, tended by Eddie Buchanan, a fifth-generation beekeeper. Sunflower oil is pressed from some of the nearly 150,000 sunflowers grown on the estate. Our goats are more than grazers, they provide us with the milk needed to create handmade soaps. 30,000 pounds of white corn are harvested to produce grits and cornmeal and an even larger volume of corn silage is used to feed our cattle during the winter. 400 bushels of barley are malted and used in Cedric’s ale. Near the Winery, 9 acres of more than 7,000 solar panels helps offset estate energy usage. 6. We practice sustainable agriculture Rotational grazing of livestock maintains our soil health and prevents erosion. A 4-year cycle of crop rotation enhances soil fertility and reduces synthetic fertilizer use. Our state-of-the-art composting facility transforms up to 1.7 million pounds of organic waste annually. Milkweed is planted to support pollinator populations, to foster biodiversity and ecological resilience. Biltmore is a certified Monarch Butterfly Waystation. We partner with Widget Co., a parent company of Cork Club to recycle used corks as part of our sustainability mission. Each historical structure on the estate tells a story of innovation and craftsmanship. 7. We are a national historic landmark 52 historic farm buildings, including barns, stables, dairy facilities, and icehouses, contribute to our National Historic Landmark status. 33 farm buildings are considered Non-Contributing, but all reflect the era in which they were built and the agricultural practices that sustained Biltmore throughout history. 17 of these 33 farm buildings are over 50 years old and may qualify as contributing buildings in the future. The Farmyard at Antler Hill Village offers hands-on experiences your whole family will enjoy. 8. We value educational opportunities “Guests visiting the estate can take a deeper look into our agricultural history at Antler Hill Barn, where you can watch demonstrations, meet friendly farm animals, and participate in hands-on activities at the Farmyard in Antler Hill Village,” Kyle Mayberry said. “Our Farm to Table Tour & Taste offers visitors a unique look into the rarely-seen west side of the estate’s farming practices, from vineyard management and animal husbandry to composting and greenhouse cultivation.” By sharing our agricultural expertise and resources, we hope to encourage a deeper appreciation for the connection between food, land, and community.
Visit Itinerary: Family Fun Guide to Biltmore Posted on June 1, 2024 at 9:00 am.Written by Amy Dangelico Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, is a family-friendly destination all year long! Every visit to our 8,000-acre retreat unveils new wonders and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re strolling through our historic gardens or exploring the halls of Biltmore House, endless opportunities to create lifelong memories await. Make the most of your family vacation with our top recommendations for Biltmore family favorite activities that are sure to please your entire clan, from grandparents to grandchildren. Thanks to the incredible work of so many generous people, recovery from Helene is happening all around us. Biltmore reopened on November 2 to celebrate the joy of the holiday season with you during Christmas at Biltmore. Find helpful visit planning info, like FAQs, current hours of operation and activities offered, travel access to Asheville, and more on our Know Before You Go page. Try all the ice cream treats, including this delicious Winkie Bar Sundae served in a waffle bowl 7. Savor Our Favorite Flavors Did you know that the vanilla ice cream served on the estate is based on a delicious original Biltmore Dairy recipe? With a visit to the Biltmore Dairy Bar® near Biltmore House and the Creamery in Antler Hill Village, you and your family can cool off while enjoying the same richly-flavored frozen treat savored by estate guests more than a century ago! Tip: Take your treats — like ice cream sundaes, smoked barbeque sandwiches, or even some Biltmore Wine for the grownups — to-go from the Creamery or other restaurants in Antler Hill Village and enjoy on the nearby Village Green where you can cut a rug to live music at the bandstand! Bring the whole family along on your next biking adventure at Biltmore 6. Have Fun Biking for All Ready to explore our wide-open spaces on two wheels? You’re welcome to bring your own bikes in tow or visit the Outdoor Adventure Center or Bike Barn in Antler Hill Village and choose from a selection of rentable mountain bikes for rugged trails or comfort cruisers for paved paths. Tandem rentals are also available so the younger members of the family can join the fun. Tip: Consider a guided bike ride or other outdoor activities for more exciting ways to explore our 8,000-acre estate! Installation from Chihuly at Biltmore, March 25, 2024 – February 2, 2025 at Amherst. Dale Chihuly, Persian Ceiling, 2012, 25 x 15′, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024 © 2012 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. 5. Experience An Artistic Escape Ignite your family’s imaginations as you explore the castle-like halls of America’s Largest Home® and the awe-inspiring art installations on view inside Amherst during Chihuly at Biltmore, ending February 2, 2025. Chihuly’s mesmerizing work is sure to captivate young minds and inspire a love for creativity! Tip: Chihuly at Biltmore is an awe-inspiring experience for families and guests of all ages. That said, due to the nature of the exhibition, all guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Meet our working farm animals at the Farmyard in Antler Hill Village! 4. Family Fun at the Farmyard Bring your kids to meet our kids at the Farmyard in Antler Hill Village! From learning about the working farm animals that are a part of our agricultural history at the Farmyard to handicrafts demonstrations and seasonal activities offered at The Barn nearby, your kiddos will have plenty to choose from for engaging and educational fun. Our Farm to Table Tour & Taste experience (available exclusively to overnight guests and Passholders) offers even more in-depth discovery of Biltmore’s farming legacy and how that connects to our modern field-to-table philosophy. Tip: Did you know that Biltmore Annual Passholders can bring their kids ages 16 and younger to enjoy Antler Hill Village for free year-round? If adventure is calling your name, check out our guided river activities! 3. All-Time Family Favorite: Exploring Our 8,000-acre Backyard! With 8,000-acres of Blue Ridge Mountain backyard, you’ll never run out of places to explore at Biltmore! Enjoy more than 22-miles of hiking trails along the French Broad River, through lush green forests, or in the open meadows of the estate. Whether you’re up for a Vanderbilt-era-inspired game of croquet, rafting on the French Broad River, or venturing out on guided nature experiences (or all three!), our Outdoor Adventure Center in Antler Hill Village boasts an ever-changing variety of activities that are fun for the whole family. Tip: Activities offered may sell out or have specific dates and times offered, so we strongly recommend checking our current offerings online and making reservations in advance to ensure availability during your visit. Visit the Bike Barn or Outdoor Adventure Center for a detailed trail map and orientation to the trails. Explore Biltmore’s 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain backyard! 2. Discover Even More of Biltmore Every day’s an invitation to vacation like a Vanderbilt at Biltmore! Embrace the vibrant blooms of spring, soak up the leisurely days of summer, marvel at the rich tapestry of fall’s changing leaves, and bask in the warm, twinkling glow of Christmas. Each season invites you to experience its own unique magic. Share must-see experiences, like Chihuly at Biltmore, with the whole family when booking our “best value” House, Exhibit & 2-Day Grounds ticket, which features free admission for kids (9 and under), discounted admission for youth (10-16), plus access to explore the estate gardens and grounds the next day for free! In addition to our top family-favorite activities, we invite you to explore all of our activities currently offered so you can make the most of your quick getaway, family vacation, or long holiday weekends to Biltmore! Make a splash at Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate 1. Make it a Family Getaway to Remember Truly get away by extending your Biltmore visit with an overnight stay at The Inn on Biltmore Estate, Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate, or our private historic Cottages on Biltmore Estate. Become a Biltmore Annual Passholder and enjoy year-round visits and exclusive member discounts on special events, dining, and more.
Restoring the Past: The Smoking & Gun Rooms Posted on May 9, 2024 at 8:00 am.Written by Karina Hux For upper echelons during the Gilded Age, few things were more important than networking and maintaining social standing. Smoking and Gun Rooms were essential for many affluent families. At Biltmore, these two rooms have been used in various ways over the last century, yet always centered around hospitality. In honor of National Preservation Month in May, we invite you to learn about the intricate layers of our preservation efforts to restore the Smoking and Gun Rooms of Biltmore House. An archival photo of the hallway from the 1940s displays embossed wallpaper resembling leather, dating back to 1911. A home well-loved Biltmore has been called home to many generations of Vanderbilts and Cecils throughout the years. And, just as we do in our own homes, we update, refresh, and alternate the use of space, the Smoking and Gun Rooms on the first floor of Biltmore House were no different. During George Vanderbilt’s time, gentlemen primarily utilized these rooms to socialize, relax, and gear up for outdoor activities including hunting and fishing. After George’s death, Edith and Cornelia downsized, and used these rooms as office and living quarters, which they remained through the Cecils’ stay. Always evolving and reflecting the tastes of the time and lifestyles of their inhabitants. A handwritten letter by George Vanderbilt in 1896 gives us a glimpse at the historic use of these rooms. History writes itself Through a combination of research, our own archival documents and photos, and those from repositories around the world, we can peel back the layers of time to bring Biltmore back to its roots. Among the treasures uncovered in our archives are a series of letters that offer a glimpse into the past. One letter, dated to the 1890s, finds George requesting retrieval of a box stored in a desk in the Smoking Room—these little nuggets of information provide us with invaluable clues to the room’s furnishings and use. “Dear Charles, With the enclosed key please open the desk in the smoking room. In the middle drawer is a box addressed to me at Biltmore about 14×7 inches + 2 inches deep… On the top of the desk are a lot of letters and some invitations. Please mail me these.” – George Vanderbilt on February 13, 1896 Herbert Noble in Biltmore’s Winter Garden c. 1930 The Butler’s Log Central to our research efforts is the Butler’s Log, meticulously maintained by Herbert Noble during the 1930s. This detailed account of the changes made within Biltmore House offers a treasure trove of information, from descriptions of room updates to insights into the removal and replacement of furnishings and décor that had been worn out, water damaged, or whatever the case may be. Often what he is moving out is the pieces of information that are most helpful. Herbert recorded, “Leaks at some time had ruined the original paper which was dark green. As the blue draperies were so very faded and worn, I had new ones made for it of dark red damask…” The wallpaper seen in this photo of Mrs. Vanderbilt matches a sample of wallpaper in storage, which assisted us in restoring the Smoking Room to its original state. We took that information alongside a picture of Edith which shows a striped wallpaper on the wall behind her and found the same green striped wallpaper in our storage. This sample has since been sent off to be reproduced by Atelier D’Offard in Tours, France, who specializes in hand-blocked wallpapers as produced in the 18th and 19th centuries.. The same company who produced wallpapers for the Louis XV Suite. Another entry states,”Mr. Cecil uses this room for a writing room. He had the woodwork cleaned & oiled last year…Mr. Cecil had the backs of the cabinets painted yellow which shows up the birds so much more besides improving the appearance of the room. The dark blue & red rug is from the Van Dyke room… As this room had no draperies I hung a pair of velvet draperies in here.“ A glimpse inside the Gun Room of Biltmore House as it undergoes preservation. Digging deeper for information While we had archival clues for the Smoking Room, the Gun Room required the team to start entirely from scratch. According to Lori Garst, Biltmore’s Curator of Collections, we had no archival drawings to use when planning the restoration of the Gun Room. Our research last summer focused on the function of late 19th and early 20th-century gun rooms. Based on the finishes in our gun room, we knew that the dirty work of cleaning the guns was done elsewhere. Rather, Biltmore’s gun room, like others, was more of a gathering place where the men went to pick up their equipment for the afternoon’s shoot or fishing outing. Pardon our Preservation: Restoration of these rooms will be visible to guests through completion. A mission of preservation For Lori and the team, every preservation project is a chance to uncover and revive history. “Restoration projects at Biltmore uncover our past. Stories related to the spaces are revealed, and the original design details are uncovered. In the Smoking and Gun Room, we have both. When complete, the rooms will be completely transformed.” We welcome you to see our ongoing preservation efforts of this National Historic Landmark for yourself during your next Biltmore visit.
Through the Lens: Biltmore’s Most Instaworthy Moments Posted on March 22, 2024 at 9:00 am.Written by Karina Hux A day on Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC is a photophile’s dream! No matter what style of photography you prefer, there’s always a place to #capturethemoment. We’ve found the most instaworthy spots; now all that’s left for you to do is get out your camera and point, tap, and shoot! Over 100,000 sunflowers will bloom in our sunflower field at the end of summer this year! #FarmyardFriends One way we continue our farming legacy is by raising some of the same heritage breeds that were here during George Vanderbilt’s lifetime. Everybody loves cute baby animals and spring is the prime time to meet the newest members of the Farmyard family. Kids will enjoy meeting our friendly farm animals, learning about life on the farm, and playing at the Pisgah Playground. If a deeper understanding of Biltmore and agriculture is what you’re looking for, our Farm to Table Tour and Taste will take you to the rarely seen West Side of the estate, where our livestock is raised and our greenhouses thrive. You’ll get a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at our Black Angus and Jersey beef cattle, Berkshire hogs, and Dorper sheep. If you’re lucky, you might even see their hardworking protectors, three Great Pyrenees. #NaturalPerspective Sometimes the best photos are taken off the beaten path. With over 22 miles of trails to explore, you’re sure to find your own instaworthy hidden gems among the forests and fields. The Bass Pond offers a different perspective of Frederick Law Olmsted’s work on Biltmore Estate. One of our favorite spots to explore and capture is the Bass Pond, situated at the end of Biltmore’s formal gardens. Although it may be a bit of a walk, the charm of its scenery makes it well worth it. A rustic boathouse stands on the shore, and a bridge spans the waterfall at the far end. It’s the perfect spot for photographing instaworthy seasonal color changes and birdwatching all year long. Get lost in the natural wonder of Biltmore’s 8,000 acres. If you’re up for a challenge, we highly recommend exploring the Westover Trails for a deeper look at the Birthplace of American Forestry. The black route totals 3.5 miles round-trip, taking you deep into the beautiful woodlands of Biltmore Estate. Great for technical bike riding and an advanced hiking experience, it’s also a wonderful area to get that instaworthy photo of local flora and fauna. Just remember to put your comfy shoes on; this one’s a doozy! #SipandSavor Stop by The Library Lounge at The Inn on Biltmore Estate for a #buzzworthy view! Photo courtesy of Heather Angel. Are you a foodie that moonlights as a shutterbug? You’ll find delicious treats all across the estate! Stop by our Wine Bar in Antler Hill Village for a glass of our award-winning red, white, and rosé Biltmore Wines and expertly paired charcuterie or locally-crafted chocolates! For mouthwatering menus to share with your followers, be sure to visit one (or more!) of our seven restaurants; each featuring a selection of our estate-raised specialties bursting with flavor and vivid colors of the season’s fresh-grown herbs and vegetables. Photo courtesy of Camryn Glackin of Coral & Charm #SecretSpot! Just steps away from The Dining Room (our four-star dining experience) at The Inn on Biltmore Estate, you’ll find this serene lookout spot. George Vanderbilt was enamored with the rolling hills and Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop, and so are we. One of the most peaceful moments on the estate can be seen in the wee hours of the morning when the fog gently settles within the crevices of the hills. #BiltmoreBlooms Spring and summer are our most brightly colored seasons, but Biltmore’s gardens and grounds boast year-round beauty. Grab your cameras and stop to smell the tulips – and the azaleas, roses, orchids, daffodils; the list goes on and on! Tiptoe through the tulips with your loved ones. The Walled Garden is a guest favorite during Spring at Biltmore. This festival of flowers marks the blooming of our 100,000 bulbs planted estate-wide. You’ll find 50,000 tulips, 14,000 daffodils, 1,000 hyacinths, and a variety of other flowers and shrubs. During the summer months, the beds transform with towering tropical plants, Make your way down the paths to our soaring glass-ceilinged Conservatory for a one-of-a-kind display of lush, exotic, and tropical plants. Macro photographers will be in heaven with eye-level plants around every corner. Wisteria thrives with robust support, much like the sturdy crafted latticework it is holding onto. Situated near Biltmore House are two distinctive pergolas covered in eye-catching wisteria that blooms each spring; one on the Library Terrace and one just below the South Terrace. The scent of wisteria in full bloom is intoxicating and the light purple blooms flutter in the breeze! Take a seat on one of the benches and point your camera skyward. The Wisteria reaches out to greet your lens, beckoning for that #pictureperfect moment. Our night-blooming lilies reach their peak bloom in the early morning and close completely by noon. Right beside the Library Terrace of Biltmore House is the Italian Garden. Each spring and summer, numerous varieties of exotic water lilies, tropical bananas, papyrus, and other plants and flowers bloom in the water garden. The different colors and varieties create a mosaic effect for the koi fish to swim among. Although it’s one of the most visited areas of the estate, many guests don’t realize that it remains astoundingly faithful to the original design from 1895. #Instagood One of the most iconic views of America’s Largest Home® can be captured from the lower and high lawn atop the Rampe Douce. You’re going to want to get out your wide-angle lens for this view! Biltmore House stands in all its glory with the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains just behind. It’s also a picture-perfect location to sprawl out on a warm day with a picnic basket and a bottle of Biltmore Wines! #TravelGoals… Plan Your Visit Today! You only live once, right? Are you ready to experience all the special instaworthy moments Biltmore has to offer? Reserve your visit and be sure to tag @biltmoreestate #biltmore when you share your memories on social! Tip: Be sure to review Biltmore’s photography policies before your visit.
8 Great Reasons for a Fall Visit to Biltmore Posted on August 15, 2023 at 6:11 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico Biltmore Estate’s ever-changing autumnal color, plus its many seasonal activities and offerings, make it the perfect home base for a fall visit. While there are certainly more than 8 great reasons to plan a fall visit to Biltmore, like the fact that the season is prime vacation time for those who love “leaf-peeping” in the Blue Ridge Mountains, we’ve compiled a few of our favorite reasons to add Biltmore to your travel list this fall. Biltmore House surrounded by gorgeous fall color 1. A prime location in Asheville, NC Nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina, Biltmore is located minutes from downtown Asheville—a vibrant city known for great dining, quaint shops, and its strong arts community—and just a few miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway. In addition to soaking in all that your fall visit to Biltmore has to offer, we recommend enjoying the natural beauty and history of the surrounding area, including Pisgah National Forest. In addition to enjoying our Building Biltmore House exhibition, enhance your visit with a Rooftop Tour that includes spectacular views and stories. 2. Long-range views from the rooftop of America’s Largest Home® Discover spectacular views boasting every shade of fall color as far as the eye can see from Biltmore’s rooftops! This guest-favorite guided tour offers wildly impressive photo ops—during autumn, especially—and provides a closer look at the design and construction of Biltmore House in areas that many guests never visit. Each year, the Walled Garden boasts a new, vibrant display of mums! 3. A festive display of fall colors In addition to the ever-changing hues of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, Biltmore’s gardens and grounds come alive with vibrant mums, colorful floral displays, and fall foliage that you will not want to miss! Even though we don’t officially kick off our Christmas season until early November, you’ll also have the chance to catch a sneak peek of what our team has in store for the upcoming festivities during your fall visit to Biltmore! Learn about Biltmore’s farming history at The Farmyard! 5. Afternoons in Antler Hill Village All aboard for family fun around our charming, European-inspired Antler Hill Village! What better time of year to learn about Biltmore’s farming legacy at Antler Hill Barn and The Farmyard than during harvest season? Savor the bounty of our fields at our estate restaurants and award-winning Winery. Discover stories of the Vanderbilt family and their travels as you experience your own getaway with your loved ones. Explore our 8,000-acre estate by carriage, horseback, and more. 6. Outdoor adventures for all A fall visit to Biltmore beckons you to enjoy the crisp air and glorious fall colors of our great outdoors! Go hiking or biking along our nearly 22 miles of paved and unpaved trails on our private, 8,000-acre estate. Admire the scenery along the French Broad River, through lush green forests, or in the open meadows of the estate. Stop by the Bike Barn or Outdoor Adventure Center in Antler Hill Village for a detailed trail map and orientation. Whether you prefer a relaxing journey in an elegant Carriage Ride or Horseback Trail Ride, few things are as majestic as traveling our woodland trails enveloped in fall color. Grapes are picked by hand in Biltmore’s vineyard on the west side of the estate. 7. Vineyard harvest season Biltmore’s bounty takes center stage at the Winery in Antler Hill Village as we celebrate the harvest season. Savor complimentary tastings of handcrafted wines and learn how science and nature intersect as you learn about the estate’s vineyards, discover the unique factors that affect grapes grown in North Carolina, and take an in-depth look at our winemaking process. Autumn’s beauty is right outside your door with an overnight stay on Biltmore Estate! 8. The ultimate fall getaway An overnight stay on Biltmore Estate offers the unique experience of waking up with sprawling autumnal beauty just outside your door. Enjoy warm hospitality in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere at the charming Village Hotel, experience world-class service with a luxurious four-star stay at The Inn, or truly get away this fall with a stay in one of our private, historic Cottages. Plan your getaway and discover for yourself why Biltmore is the perfect home base for your fall visit and year-round with an Annual Pass membership.
Biltmore’s Blacksmith: Striking While the Iron is Hot Posted on May 26, 2022 at 1:10 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico Did you know America’s Largest Home® has a resident blacksmith? A typical day for Biltmore blacksmith Steve Schroeder is spent demonstrating traditional techniques, telling stories to our guests, and answering their questions in the estate’s original smithy shop at Antler Hill Barn. Blacksmith to Blacksmith During one of his demonstrations, Steve met a guest who was a fellow blacksmith from New Jersey. The guest showed Steve a piece of his own: a metal key ring featuring a golf ball-sized rose with about 40 tiny petals. Blacksmithing is the art of forging metal to create hardware, ornamental objects, and more. Steve was impressed by the rose design and asked the guest about his process. To his surprise, the guest offered to stay at the smithy shop for what ended up being more than an hour to explain the method to Steve as he tried it out. “That’s one of the great things about blacksmiths,” Steve explains. “We’re very open about sharing projects and we’re happy to teach each other different techniques. There are no secrets in blacksmithing.” Blacksmiths use a variety of tools such as a hammer, an anvil, and a hot cut, which helps create indentations in the metal. The Rose Hook Process The upper portion of the rod is heated—as it is throughout the process—and then hammered (above) until it is incredibly thin.The rod is twisted in the middle to define the stem.The flat, upper portion of the rod is placed over a hot cut and struck with a hammer to create indentions along one side, defining the individual petals.The upper portion is bent into a P-shape.The P-shape is tightly coiled, revealing the rose design.The lower portion of the rod bent to create the hook element. Our blacksmith’s early rose hooks are on display near the second floor fireplace in Village Hotel. Perfecting the Petals Steve worked diligently to improve his rose hook technique over the next few months. During that time, news of the fascinating project caught wind around the estate. As result, eight rose hooks were soon installed in the comfortable seating area next to Village Social, located within Village Hotel. Steve peels back the petals of the roses using pliers while the metal is still red-hot to create the blooming effect. However, Steve is quick to point out that the hooks installed in Village Hotel don’t reflect one of his biggest revelations in perfecting his technique, one that actually came from his wife Kylie. “I explained to her that I was having a hard time keeping the petals open in the coiling process,” he says. “She suggested I use pliers to pull the petals back for that nice blooming effect.” Striking While the Iron is Hot Steve knew early on there was potential for his products to be sold on the estate—and Village Hotel guests were asking if the rose hooks were available for purchase on a daily basis. While Steve didn’t want to sell the product until he thought it was in its best possible form, he knew that he had to “strike while the iron is hot.” (Yes, that is a blacksmith pun, and yes, Steve is full of them.) We invite you to watch our blacksmith work and learn more about the craft in Antler Hill Barn. Hours vary seasonally. Finally, after a few months and a few hundred roses, Steve felt confident enough in the design—more specifically, in his ability to replicate the design over and over—and the product hit the shelves of The Barn Door. And the rose hooks are selling just as fast as Steve can make them. He brings a handful of rose hooks to The Barn Door every morning and they’re gone by the afternoon. In the first two weeks, the shop sold more than 50 hooks, making it their best-selling item. Our blacksmith’s rose hooks sell out incredibly quickly and because of the nature of the craft, they’re only available on the estate. As a result of this estate collaboration, the product’s footprint is almost non-existent. When a batch of rose hooks is ready, Steve simply walks them next door to be sold—no additional carbon emissions, packaging, or waste involved. The rose hooks don’t even have price tags. On your next visit to the estate, be sure to make time to visit our blacksmith Steve Schroeder at Antler Hill Barn, then pop in The Barn Door to take home a truly unique piece of Biltmore.
Facebook Fans Help Create Our Christmas Wine Labels Posted on October 12, 2021 at 6:19 pm.Written by Jean Sexton For 2021, our Facebook fans helped create the labels for our Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines. Facebook fans voting online chose the elements for both of our 2021 Christmas at Biltmore wine labels “This is the fourth year that we’ve used this crowdsourcing process,” said Jill Whitfield, Senior Wine Marketing Manager. “By voting for their favorite holiday styles and themes, our Facebook fans really help us capture the spirit of our annual Christmas at Biltmore celebration on our Christmas wine labels.” Local artist chosen to create our Christmas wine labels Local artist and Biltmore employee Craig Sponsellor The Biltmore wine marketing team selected artist Craig Sponseller of Asheville, North Carolina, to create two original paintings that would incorporate the holiday images and elements selected by Biltmore’s Facebook followers for our 2021 Christmas wine labels. According to Craig, this project was especially meaningful because in addition to being an artist, he has also been a Biltmore employee for the past 10 years. “I work in Mail Services,” said Craig, “and my days are filled with routines related to ensuring that mail is picked up and delivered. This opportunity to develop the artwork for the 2021 Christmas at Biltmore wine labels allowed me to tap into my creative side while focusing on all the beauty of the season here at the estate.” Facebook fans select two distinct themes The 2021 Christmas at Biltmore wines makes a perfect gift for someone special After two rounds of online voting, some distinct themes emerged: our fans wanted both a wintry outdoor scene featuring the iconic architecture of Biltmore House, and a warm and wonderful tribute to the towering Banquet Hall Christmas tree inside America’s Largest Home®. Capturing the exterior of Biltmore House Part of Craig’s creative process is the creation of sketches like this that help him refine the details he’ll include in a painting Craig began the process of creating the Christmas at Biltmore White Wine label by sketching the exterior elements of Biltmore House. He started with a pencil sketch, then refined the details with pen and ink. “I’m a watercolor artist,” Craig explained, “and it is a very unforgiving medium. If you make a mistake or need to move something around, it’s impossible. That’s why I do the preliminary sketches and refinements so I can be sure I’m on the right track.” Craig chose to showcase the familiar view from the wall at the end of the Front Lawn. To further the holiday mood, he added a touch of snow to give the painting a frosty feel. Craig refined his initial sketches before adding layers of color washes to the final painting As for the cheerful red cardinal on the rail, that’s the state bird of North Carolina, and a familiar sight around the estate during this time of year. “The cardinal was a very specific element that Biltmore’s Facebook fans voted to include on both labels,” Craig said. “It was a challenge to portray a small bird in front of such a large house, but I placed it on the Rampe Douce railing so the cardinal would appear larger in the foreground.” Creating the Banquet Hall view Our Facebook fans also voted to see the beauty of the season inside Biltmore House, and Craig was happy to oblige. Inspiration for Facebook fans included this Banquet Hall scene with iconic orange tree centerpieces i For the Christmas at Biltmore Red Wine label, Craig was able to include many of the wonders in the Banquet Hall, from the grand Fraser fir that dominates the scene during the holidays to a grouping of festive orange tree centerpieces atop the massive dining table. One of Craig’s early pencil sketches for the Christmas at Biltmore Red Wine label includes the cardinal ornament on the tree in the foreground “The real challenge here was how to include a cardinal in an indoor scene,” said Craig, “but I was able to work it in as an ornament!” Stock up for the season on our Christmas wines and more! Make sure your holiday is seasoned with cheer when you choose Biltmore wines! Whether you’re in the mood for a fragrant, semi-sweet white wine or a soft, fruit-forward red, our Christmas at Biltmore Wines offer a classic complement to your favorite flavors at the holiday buffet or dessert table. As an added bonus, the lovely labels make both wines a charming gift of the season for someone special. Find our Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines and all your other handcrafted favorites in estate shops, online, or with our Retail Locator.
A Guide to Biltmore Trails: 22 Miles to Explore Posted on April 6, 2021 at 12:00 am.Written by Amy Dangelico Whether you’re visiting for the day or you’re a Biltmore Annual Passholder, exploring Biltmore Estate’s 22 miles of trails is an excellent way to get some outdoor exercise. From leisurely strolls to intense workouts or trailside picnics, our estate trails offer a variety of routes that can be tailored to your skill level with spectacular views in every season. Thanks to the incredible work of so many generous people, recovery from Helene is happening all around us. Biltmore reopened on November 2 to celebrate the joy of the holiday season with you during Christmas at Biltmore. Find helpful visit planning info, like FAQs, current hours of operation and activities offered, travel access to Asheville, and more on our Know Before You Go page. Enjoy the manicured landscape along paved paths in our historic gardens. Easy Biltmore Trails Historic Gardens (walking) Our historic garden paths incorporate the Italian Garden (gravel), Shrub Garden (paved), Walled Garden (paved), and Spring Garden (mulch). Routes stretch approximately 1-2 miles depending on which paths you choose. Enjoy seasonal blooms with benches nearby to take a break and soak it all in. Azalea Garden (walking) This mostly paved walking path can be accessed from either the Spring Garden or Walled Garden. It is a great opportunity to go even deeper into Biltmore’s historic gardens, offering benches along the way, and leads to Bass Pond Waterfall and Boat House. Take in spectacular views across the Bass Pond at approximately 1 mile. The Lagoon offers a striking reflection of the west side of Biltmore House. Moderate Biltmore Trails Lagoon Trail (walking, running, biking) This mostly flat, paved trail leads to the Lagoon, which offers a striking view of the west side of Biltmore House (a popular picnic spot). Start and end at Antler Hill Village for a pleasant 3-mile trip. The French Broad River and estate farmland provide pleasant scenery as you explore the path. Farm Trail (walking, running, biking) This flat gravel and dirt road runs along the perimeter of Biltmore’s grounds and the French Broad River. Totaling 6 miles, this trail leads to the Arbor Trace Trail at one end and the Lagoon Trail at the other. Westover Trails (hiking, trail running, biking) Access this set of Biltmore trails from the Bike Barn or The Inn on Biltmore Estate® to see Biltmore’s beautiful woodlands. The green (1.7 miles) and blue routes (2.8 miles) immerse you in nature while offering wide trails for a comfortable experience with a few challenging hills. The Westover Trails provide access to some of the estate’s more secluded woodlands. Challenging Biltmore Trails Westover Trails (hiking, trail running, biking) The black route totals 3.5 miles round-trip inside Biltmore’s beautiful woodland. The narrow trail offers steep hills and is great for a technical single-track bike ride or an authentic hiking experience. Arbor Trace Trail (hiking, trail running, biking) This trail can only be accessed by first following the Farm Trail. The 3.5-mile round-trip route travels in and out of the woods providing scenic views of the estate’s agriculture and the historic Market Gardener’s Cottage on Biltmore Estate™. The last stretch of the trail (black) is quite narrow and an optional loop. Deer Park Trail (walking, running, biking) This challenging uphill trek is quite popular due to the stunning view of Biltmore House it offers. To extend the challenge, start at Antler Hill Village and take the Farm Trail to the Lagoon Trail which leads to the Deer Park Trail. Quick Overview of Biltmore’s 22 miles of trails Get Ready to Hit the Trails Be sure to check out, download, or print our trail map before you embark. Orientation and detailed maps are available at the Bike Barn and Outdoor Adventure Center in Antler Hill Village. All Biltmore trails are pet-friendly, well-maintained, and accessible only to Passholders, lodging guests, and ticketed guests. If you’re looking for a more curated experience, consider one of our guided hiking or biking offerings. See you on the trails! Please note: We may temporarily close our trails and wooded areas without advance notice during inclement weather. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation with trail closure signage. Access to Biltmore’s private trail system requires an admission ticket, Biltmore Annual Pass membership, or an overnight stay.
And the winner of the 2019 Biltmore Rose Trials is… Posted on October 3, 2019 at 11:35 am.Written by LeeAnn Donnelly The Coral Knock Out Rose has captured the top prize at the recent finals of the 2019 Biltmore International Rose Trials. Bred by William Radler and distributed by Star Roses & Plants, Coral Knock Out Rose (RADral) took home the George and Edith Vanderbilt Award for Most Outstanding Rose of the trials. Coral Knock Out Rose by Star Roses & Plants The winning rose was among a collection of roses planted for trials in 2017 in Biltmore’s award-winning and historic Rose Garden. Since 2011, Biltmore’s Rose Garden has been home to the trials in which more than 200 varieties from growers and breeders worldwide have been planted and cared for by Biltmore’s expert horticulturalists. A permanent jury of rose experts judged the plantings four times a year during the trial’s two years. In addition to winning the Best in Show Award, Coral Knock Out won the Chauncey Beadle Award for Most Outstanding Shrub Rose. Additional winners this year were: Sweet Hips (KAPswehp) – Winner of the William Cecil Award for Best General Impression, and the Lord Burleigh Award for Most Disease Resistant Rose, Sweet Hips is available from Weeks Roses. Sweet Hips, available from Weeks Roses Cupid’s Kisses (WEKtriscala) – Winner of the Gilded Age Award for Best Climbing Rose. Bred by Christian Bedard, it is available from Weeks Roses. Cupid’s Kisses Bliss Parfuma (KORmarzau) – Bred by Kordes Roses in Germany, Bliss Parfuma won the Edith Wharton Award for Best Floribunda. It is available from Star Roses & Plants. Bliss Parfuma Moonlight Romantica (MEILkaquinz) – Winner of the Pauline Merrill Award for best Hybrid Tea went to Moonlight Romantica, bred by Meilland in France. It is available from Star Roses & Plants. Moonlight Romantica Trials of this type are open to rose breeders around the world – from professional to beginner. Competing roses are evaluated for overall health and rigor; fragrance; disease resistance; and ability to repeat bloom. Congratulations to all of the winners!
Biltmore: The Birthplace of American Forestry Posted on September 27, 2019 at 2:57 pm.Written by Heather Angel When George Vanderbilt began planning his grand estate in Asheville, North Carolina, more than a century ago, he envisioned a self-sustaining home and stewardship of the land and its resources for years to come. Though it is hard to imagine now, portions of the lush forest surrounding Biltmore House was once overworked farmland and overcut woodland. This archival image of Biltmore Estate circa 1892 showcases how poor the woodland conditions were when George Vanderbilt began purchasing estate property. © The Biltmore Company Implementing Scientific Forestry Management Following the recommendation of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Vanderbilt hired trained forester Gifford Pinchot—who later served as the first chief of the United States Forest Service and founder of the Society of American Foresters—to develop a forest management plan for his land holdings, which eventually totaled approximately 125,000 acres. Pinchot’s scientific forestry plan (the management and conservation of forest lands) was the first of its kind in the United States and served as a national model. In turn, George Vanderbilt was the first American landowner to implement scientific forestry on a large scale. Archival photographs from Biltmore’s collection show Gifford Pinchot (left) and Dr. Carl Schenck (right). © The Biltmore Company Founding of Biltmore Forest School In 1895, the same year as the opening of Biltmore House, German forester Dr. Carl A. Schenck succeeded Pinchot and expanded the forest management plan over the next 14 years, including the development of a comprehensive management plan for Vanderbilt’s vast Pisgah Forest holdings. During his tenure at Biltmore, Dr. Schenck also founded the Biltmore Forest School—the first school of forestry in the United States—graduating more than 300 of the nation’s first professionally trained foresters. White pine plantings in estate forests are labeled for scientific research, circa 1929. © The Biltmore Company The Birthplace of American Forestry The contributions of Frederick Law Olmsted, Gifford Pinchot, and Dr. Carl Schenck transformed what was once a landscape of overused terrain into America’s first managed forest on a large scale, improving the health of the land while producing sustainable wood and other resources, and establishing the birthplace of American Forestry. Edith Vanderbilt (far left) and Cornelia Vanderbilt (second from right) attending Pisgah National Forest dedication to the memory of George Vanderbilt, circa 1920. © The Biltmore Company Creating Pisgah National Forest In May 1914, Edith Vanderbilt, completed her late husband’s wishes of selling an 86,000-acre tract of Biltmore to be managed by the U.S. government as public lands, creating one of the first national forests east of the Mississippi River: Pisgah National Forest. In an excerpt from a letter declaring her family’s interest in preserving the property, Edith stated: “Mr. Vanderbilt was the first of the large forest owners in America to adopt the practice of forestry. He has conserved Pisgah Forest from the time he bought it up to his death, a period of nearly twenty five years, under the firm conviction that every forest owner owes it to those who follow him, to hand down his forest property to them unimpaired by wasteful use.” “I make this contribution towards the public ownership of Pisgah Forest with the earnest hope that in this way I may help to perpetuate my husband’s pioneer work in forest conservation, and to ensure the protection and use and enjoyment of Pisgah Forest as a National Forest, by the American people for all time….” The lush, forested views from Biltmore House today highlight the lasting impact of scientific forestry on the estate. © The Biltmore Company Biltmore’s Forestry Legacy Continues Today, Biltmore Estate and its resources continue to be managed by those original guiding principles to ensure future vitality, honoring George Vanderbilt’s legacy of conservation and environmental stewardship. Nearby, the Cradle of Forestry is a 6,500-acre Historic Site within Pisgah National Forest, set aside to commemorate the beginning of forest conservation in America and the lasting contributions of George Vanderbilt, Frederick Law Olmsted, Gifford Pinchot, and Dr. Carl Schenck.