Take Note: Pairing Biltmore Wines with Christmas Carols Posted on October 27, 2021 at 1:19 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Happy memories are sparked when you hear the opening notes of traditional holiday music, and pairing Biltmore wines with Christmas carols can certainly season the moment with even more cheer! Catch up with Biltmore’s team of talented floral designers and discover some light-hearted pairings of the season’s merriest melodies with our award-winning Biltmore wines. Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay North Carolina + Deck the Halls There’s nothing finer than a glass of our smooth Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay handcrafted of estate-grown grapes “I am inspired by the warmth and good cheer of the carol Deck the Halls and its reference to “boughs of holly” because that’s exactly what Mr. Vanderbilt brought in to use for décor during the first Christmas celebration at Biltmore,” said Lesley, a member of Biltmore’s floral team. To capture that feeling of Biltmore’s halls decked for the season, nothing could be finer than a pairing with Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay North Carolina, especially since this smooth, classic wine is handcrafted from estate-grown grapes. Biltmore Tree Raising Wine Trio + 12 Days of Christmas Savor the delights of our 2021 Tree Raising Wine Trio “To complement the baronial splendor of the Banquet Hall, I’m inspired by the traditional Christmas colors of red, green, and shades of gold,” said Lucinda, Floral Designer, “and added touches of blue and orange to reflect some of the more whimsical details included in the song 12 Days of Christmas.” With that carol in mind, we suggest pairing the majesty of the Banquet Hall and its 35-foot-tall Fraser fir Christmas tree with our Biltmore Tree Raising Wine Trio that includes Christmas at Biltmore Red Wine, Christmas at Biltmore White Wine, and Biltmore® Reserve Rosé North Carolina. That way, you can sip and savor throughout the 12 days of Christmas! Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Gewürztraminer + Here We Come A’Wassailing Perfect pairings: Biltmore wines go a-wassailing! As a floral designer, Christy shared her experience of selecting ornaments for the holiday season. She loves choosing a lot of copper, cream, and gold-colored ornaments to follow the theme of the traditional English carol, Here We Come A’Wassailing. The ornaments had vanilla and spice hues that echoed the ingredients present in a seasonal wassail drink. Our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Gewürztraminer makes a lightly sweet and aromatic pairing. For a richer, deeper flavor to spice up a winter’s evening, go “a’wassailing” with our award-winning Biltmore Estate® Cabernet Sauvignon. Biltmore® Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon North Carolina + Jolly Old St. Nicholas Handcrafted from estate-grown grapes, Biltmore® Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is aged 18 months in oak Designer Don draws inspiration from Jolly Old St. Nicholas, a lively carol that’s sure to set a cheerful mood. “I choose classic reds, greens, and golds, but I also allowed the playfulness of the song to shine through.” It’s easy to imagine Mr. Vanderbilt by the crackling fire, his beloved St. Bernard named Cedric napping by his side, waiting for jolly old St. Nicholas to arrive. A worthy pairing with Biltmore® Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon North Carolina—an outstanding wine handcrafted from estate-grown grapes. Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs + Joy to the World Celebrate the season with Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine Inspired by Joy to the World, the most-published Christmas carol in America, designer Joslyn, recommends a monochromatic magenta color scheme for a unique seasonal complement to this popular melody. Allow the sweet strains of the joyful carol that Joslyn chose to bubble up into a perfect pairing with Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine and let’s raise a glass to the Vanderbilts, who definitely added joy to the world with their gracious hospitality for the holidays. Vanderbilt Reserve Pinot Noir pairs perfectly with Christmas carols! Vanderbilt Reserve Russian River Valley Pinot Noir + O Holy Night Inspired by the beautiful words of O Holy Night, Kyla, Floral Supervisor, selects translucent, jewel-toned decorations. “The carol has a worshipful tone,” said Kyla, “and that led me to think about All Souls Cathedral and the Vanderbilt family’s ties there, so I have selected ornaments reminiscent of stained glass.” As a perfect partner for pairing with this carol is our Vanderbilt Reserve Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. It’s an exceptional wine that’s still very approachable. It starts out soft and lovely, then soars, and then it lingers with you, much like the notes of O Holy Night. Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Malbec + Canta, Rie, Bebe Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Malbec Floral team member Lesley pulls in shades of red, pink, blue, and pewter to portray the energetic beat of Canta, Rie, Bebe (Sing, Laugh, Drink), a traditional Spanish Christmas carol. This is the perfect Christmas carol to pair with the bold flavors of Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Malbec, This spicy, award-winning wine has Spanish origins. Celebrate the season with Biltmore wines We hope you’ve enjoyed our perfect pairings with Biltmore wines and Christmas carols. You can find our award-winning wines—and everything else you need to celebrate the season—on Biltmore Shop.
Top 10 Staff Favorites for Christmas at Biltmore Posted on October 25, 2021 at 3:19 pm.Written by Jean Sexton What are the top 10 staff favorites for Christmas at Biltmore? Among the multitude of joys experienced during the holiday season at America’s Largest Home®, we’ve collected a special list to inspire your imagination and assist with gift giving. Surprise someone special with a gift basket filled with Biltmore sparkling wine, gourmet food, and other goodies “Many of our staff members have been part of the Biltmore family for decades, but their joy and wonder during the holiday season never fades,” said Terri Koestler, Senior Director of Employee Experience. “From festive food and drink to mementos and special moments, these top 10 staff favorites offer a special glimpse into our employees’ perspectives.” Our holiday legacy continues On an unforgettable Christmas Eve in 1895, more than 20 members of George Vanderbilt’s family gathered at Biltmore House for the first time. Their awestruck delight has been repeated throughout the decades as today’s guests experience Biltmore during the holidays. Here’s how even our long-time Biltmore staff members catch the spirit of the season every year: 1. Laura’s favorite: the sounds of music A harpist plays Christmas carols in the Third Floor Living Hall Laura Cope, Collections Manager, ensures the proper care of Biltmore’s priceless furniture, art, and objects. An avid music lover, she enjoys the talented musicians who play at Biltmore–especially at Christmastime. “I always get sentimental at Christmas when I hear a harp play inside Biltmore House,” she raid. “To hear What Child is This? or The Nutcracker Suite within these beautifully decorated rooms really gives you a sense of what guests of Mr. and Mrs. Vanderbilt would have experienced. It’s something that I look forward to every year!” 2. Jeff’s favorite: going a-wassailing Perfect pairings: Biltmore wines go a-wassailing! “Love and joy come to you” are among the New Year wishes sung in this traditional Christmas carol, and Jeff Jones, Carriage House Supervisor, enjoys the song’s warm sentiment while sipping a cup of spicy wassail. “Nothing tastes as much like Christmas as a cup of wassail,” said Jeff. “It’s not just one of our staff favorites—our guests love it as soon as they sample it in our estate shops!” According to Jeff, all three varieties of Biltmore’s Wassail Spice Blend can season your favorite wine, cider, or other hot beverage with cheer during the holidays and all year round. 3. Staff favorites: party starters Make entertaining easy with Biltmore’s delicious cheeseball and dip mixes Another staff favorite? The ability to bring a bit of Biltmore elegance to any holiday gathering with our best-selling gourmet cheeseball and dip mixes. With festive options such as Christmas at Biltmore Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball Mix, along with traditional crowd favorites like Biltmore® Spinach Dip Mix, no more than two additional staple ingredients are needed for a quick and easy way to let the fun begin! 4. Staff favorites: dazzling “decorations” Drawn from elements in Biltmore House, jewelry by Southern Gates® is a charming remembrance of the time you spent at Biltmore. Biltmore staff members carry the legacy of the estate close to their hearts at Christmastime and beyond by wearing a piece of Biltmore-inspired jewelry or choosing it as a gift for someone special. Staff favorites include collections by CRISLU and Southern Gates® that feature tiny tokens of timeless luxury found at the estate and highlight some of Biltmore’s most memorable features using precious gemstones and custom-designed charms. 5. Hannah’s favorite: wrapping up gift giving Handcrafted from estate-grown grapes, Biltmore® Reserve Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon make wonderful gifts for the holidays. As Visual Assets Coordinator, Hannah Parks sees the beauty of Biltmore through photographs and videos, including places that guests rarely visit, like the vineyards on the west side of the estate.“I’m excited that the 2019 vintages of Biltmore® Reserve Cabernet Franc North Carolina and Biltmore Reserve® Cabernet Sauvignon North Carolina have been released just in time for the holidays,” said Hannah. “Not only are they two of my all-time favorite Biltmore wines, but the fact that they are handcrafted from estate-grown grapes makes them really wonderful local gifts. I’ve already bought several bottles to share with friends and family, and I may go back for more!” 6. Kyle’s favorite: the nicest spices! Enhance all your Biltmore Grown® Beef selections with Spicewalla® Rubs Many Biltmore staff members are fans of Spicewalla, a home-grown Asheville business that has gained worldwide attention for its unique small-batch spice blends. “To complement your holiday meals, I suggest the robust rubs that Spicewalla has created especially for the estate’s Biltmore Grown® Beef selections, including Biltmore Grown Brisket Rub, Biltmore Grown Steak Rub, and Biltmore Grown Burger Rub,” said Kyle Mayberry, Director of Agriculture for the estate. 7. Courtney’s favorite: sipping and savoring all year-round Give someone special the gift of membership in our Vanderbilt Wine Club® According to Courtney Miller, Wine Club Manager, membership in the Vanderbilt Wine Club® is a fabulous gift for a loved one, or a decadent one for yourself! “Surprise someone special with a gift membership that lasts for 12 whole months,” Courtney said. “You’ll definitely be on their ‘nice list’ every time a seasonal shipment arrives!” Wine Club members receive their preference of red wines, white wines, a mix of red and white wines, or sweet wines each season along with tasting notes and chef-inspired recipes, plus exclusive access to special discounts, promotions, and invitations to members-only special events. 8. Staff favorites: seasonal spreads Delight your guests with gifts of good taste, including Biltmore’s jams, jellies, spreads, and syrups Just as the Vanderbilts loved to host and entertain family during the holidays, our staff knows how to show hospitality to their own Christmas guests with more than two dozen gourmet flavors of Biltmore jams, jellies, preserves, honey, and syrups that delight at the breakfast table, enhance a charcuterie board, and make perfectly delicious gifts throughout the season—especially when paired with Biltmore wines! 9. Staff favorites: crowdsourcing our Christmas wine labels Shop our special edition 2023 Christmas Wines online! Since 2018, Facebook followers of Biltmore have weighed in on the one-of-a-kind labels found on our bottles of Christmas at Biltmore’s Red and White Wines. Our Biltmore staff members love giving these special bottles as thoughtful hosting or Christmas gifts, and many buy an extra bottle for themselves as a collectible keepsake! 10. Brent’s favorite: raising the Banquet Hall Christmas tree Raising the Banquet Hall Christmas tree is a guest and staff favorite tradition at Biltmore The rooms of Biltmore House will be filled with more than 60 hand-decorated Christmas trees each year, but the one that stirs the hearts and imaginations of our guests and staff members the most is the 35-foot-tall fresh-cut Fraser fir in the tapestry-lined Banquet Hall. Brent Merrell, Director of Engineering Services, oversees the installation of the towering tree. “Every year, we experience excitement mixed with some nerves on the day we bring in the massive tree, which weighs 2,500 to 3,000 pounds,” explained Brent. “The tree-raising is virtual again this year, but this tradition is always a staff favorite because it truly marks the beginning of the Christmas season at Biltmore.” What are your top 10 favorites for Christmas at Biltmore? Our employees, both new and seasoned, enjoy sharing their enthusiasm for this special time of year with our guests. We hope you will join them and create your own top 10 list of favorites during Christmas at Biltmore! Be sure to share your favorites with us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok with #ChristmasatBiltmore. Find everything you need to season your celebrations with cheer at Biltmore, or from the comfort of home with the convenience of online shopping at shop.biltmore.com.
Pick Perfect Pairings For Seasonal Celebrations Posted on October 21, 2021 at 11:49 pm.Written by Jean Sexton It’s that time of year when you want to pick perfect pairings for your seasonal celebrations, and Biltmore’s holiday hospitality experts are ready to help you! “For more than 125 years, Biltmore has been sharing our expertise in gracious entertaining,” said Sharon Fenchak, Biltmore Winemaker. “Whether you’re planning a holiday happening in your home, traveling to Biltmore for a family getaway, or hosting a virtual visit with faraway friends, we’ll help you pick perfect Biltmore wine pairings for all your gatherings.” Friendsgiving (Saturday before Thanksgiving) Enhance all your Biltmore Grown® Beef selections with Spicewalla® Rubs Traditionally celebrated on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving is often a less formal gathering of friends and loved ones, with dishes ranging from traditional to potluck to leftovers. “If you’re not sure what your host is serving, or if you expect a lot of different dishes, it’s a good idea to have both red and white wines on hand,” Sharon said.Friendsgiving food-and-wine pairing suggestions: Charcuterie From cheese to meat to nuts, Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Tempranillo is a perfect pairing. Biltmore Grown® BeefMeatballs This recipe from Estate Executive Chef Mark Demarco is a crowd pleaser that pairs well with our award-winning Biltmore Estate® Cabernet Sauvignon. Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Dried Cranberries and Toasted Pumpkin Seeds Serve up this savory side dish with our smooth Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay North Carolina. Desserts If guests are bringing a variety of desserts, be prepared to toast their thoughtfulness with Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine. Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday in November) Our Thanksgiving Wine Trio offers perfect pairing partners for your favorite holiday flavors! “Thanksgiving is probably the most food-oriented holiday of the year,” said Sharon “and that’s why we created our Thanksgiving Wine Trio featuring three outstanding Biltmore wines to pair with a wide variety of your favorite dishes.” For a traditional Thanksgiving menu, Sharon suggests these perfect pairings with wines from our Thanksgiving Trio: Smoked Salmon Bruschetta Keep your guests happy before dinner with this delightful appetizer and a glass of Biltmore Estate® Dry Rosé. Green Beans with Pancetta and Hazelnut Brown Butter Pair this sophisticated take on green beans with our smooth Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay. Roast Turkey The showpiece of your Thanksgiving dinner pairs perfectly with our approachable Vanderbilt Reserve® Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2019. Hanukkah (December 7–15, 2023) Perfect pairings: The Hunt Red Blend Sonoma County and Biltmore Grown® Beef Brisket Known as the Festival of Lights, this Jewish tradition encompasses eight nights of celebration including stories, music, gifts and a variety of special dishes. “While Biltmore wines are not certified Kosher, we would like to offer pairings that complement the delicious foods that are such an important part of the Hanukkah festivities,” Sharon noted. Biltmore Grown® Beef Brisket However you prefer to prepare it (like our Brisket with Texas-Style BBQ Sauce), brisket pairs perfectly with a bold, robust wine such as The Hunt Red Blend Sonoma County. Latkes It may come as a bit of a surprise, but crispy fried potato latkes are especially good when paired with a sparkling wine like our Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs! Gelt Though usually given to children, these cheerful gold-wrapped chocolate coins offer adults a perfect pairing with the rich flavor of Ventágeo® Red Dessert Wine. Winter Solstice (December 21, 2023) Perfect pairings: Biltmore wines go a-wassailing! The winter solstice marks the start of winter in the northern hemisphere. Many cultures celebrate it in some fashion, although there are no well-established traditions for foods or activities. “If you’re planning a winter solstice gathering, or just enjoying some star gazing on the longest night of the year, it’s a good time to sip something hearty like our award-winning Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Malbec,” said Sharon. Mulled wine Chase away the chill in air with a steaming cup of mulled wine featuring any of our Biltmore® Wassail Spice Blend mixed with our soft Biltmore Estate® Merlot or lightly sweet Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Gewürztraminer. Port-style wine Ventágeo® Red Dessert Wine is a port-style wine that warms up winter evenings with rich tastes of sun-dried stone fruit drizzled with hints of caramel. Christmas (December 25) Celebrate Christmas with perfect pairings of Biltmore wines and your favorite holiday dishes “There are as many ways to celebrate Christmas as there are people who celebrate it,” said Sharon. “Instead of individual of wine-and-food pairings, we suggest choosing one of our convenient Biltmore wine bundles to have on hand for the holidays. That way, you’ll be able to pick perfect pairings for all your seasonal occasions.” Biltmore Tree Raising Wine Trio Deck your halls while enjoying our soft, fruit-forward Christmas at Biltmore® Red Wine, our fragrant, semi-sweet Christmas at Biltmore® White Wine, and our refreshing Christmas at Biltmore® Sparkling handcrafted from grapes grown in our estate vineyard. Biltmore Holiday Cheer Wine Trio This outstanding trio features options for every palate, from our crisp, spicy Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Dry Riesling and our approachable Vanderbilt Reserve® Pinot Noir Russian River Valley to The Hunt Red Blend Sonoma County, a distinctive Bordeaux-style favorite. Savor as a set or give as thoughtful gifts of the season. Winemaker’s Wonderland Set This outstanding four-bottle set contains our refreshing Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc, velvety smooth Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest, richly layered Vanderbilt Reserve® Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley, and the brilliant bubbles of Biltmore Estate® Brut. Kwanzaa (December 26, 2023–January 1, 2024) Pair the rich flavors of Praline Pumpkin Pie with the light sweetness of Biltmore Century Sweet White Wine. This week-long celebration of African cultures and principles is usually individualized by families or communities, but often includes singing, dancing storytelling, and a bountiful meal on the final night. “A Kwanzaa menu can incorporate many different foods, with as much emphasis on the sides and desserts as the main offerings,” said Sharon. “For that reason, we’ve suggested Biltmore wine pairings with a selection of some of the more traditional dishes.” Jerk chicken For spicier dishes like this, a crisp, refreshing wine like Biltmore Estate® Dry Rosé is a great complement to intense flavors and peppery heat. Savory Butternut SquashTart Savor this irresistible combination of warm spices and buttery crust with our crisp, unoaked Antler Hill® Chardonnay Carneros, recently awarded 92 points by Wine & Spirits magazine! Praline Pumpkin Pie A wine should always be slightly sweeter than the dessert with which it’s paired, like the unbeatable combination of this pie with our aromatic Biltmore® Century Sweet White Wine. New Year’s Day (January 1) Vanderbilt Reserve Pinot Noir pairs perfectly with Christmas carols! While New Year’s Eve is all about sparkling wine, the traditional menu for New Year’s Day calls for a bit more than bubbles to bring good luck in the coming months: Pork tenderloin, Hoppin’ John, and collard greens Some bold red wines are too much, while some white wines are too little, so we recommend pairing your New Year’s Day meal with our soft, approachable Vanderbilt Reserve® Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2019–it’s just right for the occasion! Valentine’s Day (February 14) Set a romantic mood with Ventágeo® Red Dessert Wine “On this most romantic holiday, there are numerous ways to celebrate, so we’ve listed some wine-and-food suggestions that allow you to pick perfect pairings for your special occasion,” Sharon said. Breakfast and brunch Start the day off right with an Orange Muscat Mimosa featuring our delightful Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Orange Muscat. Red wine and chocolates Pair your favorite chocolates with Ventágeo® Red Dessert Wine. Romantic dinner Pair Biltmore Grown® London Broil with Au Poivre Sauce and Bleu Cheese Butter with an elegant red wine such as The Hunt Red Blend Sonoma County. Pick perfect pairings for all your seasonal celebrations! Find these Biltmore wines for perfect pairings–plus all your other handcrafted favorites–in estate shops, online, and close to home with our Retail Locator. For more holiday inspiration, visit our Gift Guide for Holiday Gatherings.
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.
5 Reasons to “Fall” in Love with Rosé Wine Posted on October 11, 2021 at 6:24 pm.Written by Jean Sexton With 5 great reasons to “fall” in love with rosé wines, they’re not just for spring and summer sipping any more! 1. Rosé wines are very versatile Nothing could be finer than sipping our Biltmore Reserve North Carolina Rosé with all your favorite flavors! “Rosé wines are more versatile than you think,” said Sharon Fenchak, Executive Winemaker. “They pair well with cooler weather and the heartier dishes that accompany the season. A perfect example is our Biltmore® Reserve Rosé North Carolina–an exceptional wine handcrafted from outstanding grapes grown in our estate vineyard. This lovely wine features a delicate sweetness, hints of spice and white pepper, plus roundness and good mouthfeel. Approachable and easy to drink, the style is reminiscent of classic old-world rosés. Enjoy it year-round with charcuterie, mustard-glazed salmon, pesto pizza, smoked gouda cheese, and serve it with holiday favorites like glazed ham. 2. A dynamic hybrid wine Rosé wines are a dynamic hybrid between red and white wines. Rosé wine is a dynamic hybrid of tannic reds and fruity white wines, which enhances its versatility. “Rosés offer the best of both worlds,” Sharon said. “To create a rosé, you begin by crushing red grapes, but you don’t leave the juice in contact with the skins as long as you would for a red wine. This process imparts the classic rosy color and also allows the juice to keep some of the natural tannins in red grapes, but it also keeps the wine crisp and fruity–more like a white wine.” 3. Rosé wine is an affordable option Rosés are not only crisp and refreshing, they can also be more affordable than some other options. As we head into the holiday season, we often focus on heartier red wines for cool weather and finer wines for gift-giving occasions and special celebrations. Since distinguished reds and gift-worthy wines tend to be pricier than others, rosés can be a more affordable option. “Even though rosés are becoming more and more popular year-round, there are some very affordable wines to consider, like our Biltmore Estate® Sweet Rosé,” said Sharon. Off-dry with hints of red fruit and apricots, it is light, balanced, and offers floral notes that pair well with casual fare including spicy cuisine. 4. Rosé wines transition into fall Add festive bubbles to any occasion with our Biltmore Estate Blanc de Noir, a sparkling rosé wine. According to Sharon, rosé makes an excellent transitional wine between seasons. “If you’re used to sipping rosés in spring and summer, keep enjoying them during the warmer days of fall,” said Sharon. “They’re just as crisp and refreshing on a sunny afternoon in October as they are in April. I personally recommend our Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Noir, handcrafted in the traditional méthode champenoise to create fine, tiny bubbles!” With delicious fruit-forward flavors of cherries and strawberries, this pretty-in-pink Biltmore bubbly pairs well with turkey (hello, Thanksgiving!), mahi-mahi, pound cake, brie cheese, and fresh fruit. 5. Fall flavor profile Refreshing and crisp, rosé wines mirror the essence of the fall season, making them perfect for autumnal sipping. Be sure to pack some Biltmore wines to enjoy with your favorite fall activities! “Fall brings tailgating at football games, hiking to take in scenic views, and cool evenings when you gather around the fire pit,” said Sharon, “so you’ll want to have plenty of Biltmore rosé wines on hand to complement all the casual activities that characterize the season. Our Biltmore Estate® Dry Rosé as the perfect pick for all your favorite fall functions. Bright, fruity layers of berry flavor make this wine an outstanding partner for chicken, pork, salmon, and sausage–especially when your fire up the grill and gather your friends together to enjoy it with you! Fall for all your favorite Biltmore wines today! Stock up on all your favorite Biltmore wines–including our outstanding rosés–for fall. Stock up on our outstanding rosés and other award-winning Biltmore wines now in estate shops, online, and with our Retail Locator.
New Exhibition Series: Legends of Art & Innovation at Biltmore Posted on August 20, 2021 at 10:34 am.Written by Jean Sexton Please enjoy this archived exhibition article. Immerse yourself in our new exhibition series, Legends of Art & Innovation at Biltmore—featuring three different large-scale, multi-sensory experiences—hosted at Biltmore’s event center on the grounds of the estate. Created and produced by Grande Experiences, each individual component of this must-see series uses the very latest in immersive technology to illuminate the remarkable lives of Van Gogh, Monet, and Da Vinci and their timeless masterpieces of art and design. In addition, each of the three events offers fascinating ties to George Vanderbilt’s collection of treasures on display in Biltmore House, his magnificent family home in Asheville, North Carolina. Van Gogh AliveNovember 5, 2021–March 5, 2022 A guest explores Van Gogh Alive, created and produced by Grande Experiences The masterworks of Vincent van Gogh have been displayed in exhibitions around the world for over a century, but never like this. Described as “an unforgettable multi-sensory experience,” Van Gogh Alive is a powerful and vibrant symphony of light, color, sound, and scent that compels you to leave the world behind and immerse yourself the masterful paintings of Vincent Van Gogh. Simultaneously enchanting, entertaining, and educational, Van Gogh Alive stimulates all the senses and opens the mind. Van Gogh and Biltmore founder George Vanderbilt share a Dutch heritage that will be highlighted at the estate during this period. Monet & Friends — Life, Light & ColorMarch 9–July 10, 2022 Explore Monet’s masterpieces throughout the Monet & Friends experience An homage to Claude Monet and the Impressionist painters of the mid-19th century through the early 20th century, this multi-sensory experience explores not only the paintings themselves but the history of the Impressionist movement amid the social and political turbulence of the era. It transports you back to a time when European art was poised to change forever, and immerses you in the Impressionists’ masterworks as they come to life in a rich display of light, color, and sound. Breathtaking paintings are projected on an enormous scale, illuminating the bold brushstrokes of Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, and more. While Monet & Friends – Life, Light & Color is on display at Biltmore’s event center on the grounds of the estate, two original Monet paintings from George Vanderbilt’s personal collection will be displayed inside America’s Largest Home®. Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of GeniusJuly 14, 2022–January 8, 2023 Discover marvels of art and invention with Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius Inventor, artist, scientist, engineer, sculptor, anatomist, musician, architect, philosopher—Leonardo da Vinci was all of these things. His brilliance and many extraordinary achievements are brought to vivid life in Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius, the world’s most comprehensive and thrilling Leonardo da Vinci experience. Biltmore will be showcasing links to estate architecture and artwork in our collection that are influenced by da Vinci’s designs. Don’t miss our Legends of Art & Innovation at Biltmore exhibition series! Explore our Van Gogh Alive exhibition now–March 5, 2022 Each of the three Legends of Art & Innovation at Biltmore multi-sensory experiences will be hosted at Amherst at Deerpark®, our event center on the grounds of the estate. Plan your visit to Van Gogh Alive, Monet & Friends and Leonardo da Vinci now, and enhance your experience with special overnight offers at our distinctive hotels and historic cottages.
Cornelia Vanderbilt’s Birthday Parties: The Grandest Affairs Posted on August 13, 2021 at 11:22 am.Written by Amy Dangelico From the day she was born, Cornelia Vanderbilt’s birthday was recognized and celebrated on an extraordinary scale, one befitting of royalty. Birth Announcements Named in honor of prominent members of both her mother and father’s family, Cornelia Stuyvesant Vanderbilt was born on August 22, 1900 in the grand Louis XV Bedroom in Biltmore House. George Vanderbilt with newborn daughter Cornelia on the Loggia of Biltmore House, September 30, 1900 Cornelia’s birth was mentioned in the society pages of newspapers across the country, including the Asheville Citizen, which reported: Stork comes to Biltmore To Mr. and Mrs. Vanderbilt a Child is Born “The advent of a daughter to Mr. and Mrs. George W. Vanderbilt was announced last evening from Biltmore House. The little stranger is a Buncombe baby—pretty as babies go—but with the Buncombe birthright of the mountain health its days of babyhood will dot in dimpled sweetness and the fairy lines of beauty blend in a vision fitting to its home on the grand estate.“ Edith Vanderbilt with young daughter Cornelia around the time of her christening, October 1900 And from the Spartanburg Journal of upstate South Carolina: Biltmore’s New Star “A new star has appeared at famous Biltmore, and the charming mistress of this most gorgeous home is smiling upon her first born, a tiny girl called Cornelia Stuyvesant Vanderbilt…” Early Birthday Celebrations Although we have no specific descriptions of birthday parties during Cornelia’s childhood, we do know that she had many playmates among her cousins and the children of families who lived on the estate. Cornelia Vanderbilt with one of her family’s Saint Bernards on the Front Lawn of Biltmore House, 1905 Cornelia Vanderbilt’s 21st Birthday Party: An Elegant Masquerade As Cornelia Vanderbilt grew older, her birthday parties became grand events. Her twenty-first birthday on August 22, 1921 began with a surprise gathering of 250 estate workers and tenants at 7 a.m. at Biltmore House. The staff clearly had a deep affection for Cornelia, and many of their children had been her playmates since her birth. As part of their surprise for Cornelia, whom they had watched mature into a sophisticated young woman, the employees improvised a band that played old-time dance tunes. The group then presented Cornelia with a game-bag as a gift. Later that same evening, more than 200 guests attended a masquerade party at Biltmore House in Cornelia’s honor. Employees gathered to celebrate Cornelia Vanderbilt’s 21st birthday, August 1921 The Asheville Citizen-Times published the following account of the occasion: “Miss Vanderbilt is accorded honors on reaching majority; masquerade party given on Monday at mansion. Miss Cornelia Stuyvesant Vanderbilt reached her 21st birthday Monday and was accorded honors becoming the lady of Biltmore mansion. Monday night a large masquerade was given and guests were present in large numbers. The social calendar for the week started with one of the most brilliant of the season’s entertainments, the fancy dress ball, given the Monday evening at Biltmore House by Mrs. George Vanderbilt in honor of the birthday of her daughter, Miss Cornelia Vanderbilt. Dancing was enjoyed in the sunken garden where masses of ferns and palms made a pleasing and charming background for the two hundred or more fascinating and gorgeous costumes of the guests. The Garber-Davis orchestra from Atlanta provided the dance music. Late in the evening supper was served in the banquet hall. A special feature of the entertainment was that the assemblage of the guests, at the commencement of the evening, a closed sedan chair was brought in by four attendants, and as the curtains were drawn, Miss Vanderbilt stepped forward in a most attractive costume of a page of the period of the French Renaissance.“ Cornelia Vanderbilt’s 25th Birthday Party: An Open-Air Ball Cornelia’s birthdays continued to be stunning occasions, even after she married the Honorable John Francis Amherst Cecil in 1924. Cornelia Vanderbilt’s wedding portrait upon her marriage to John Francis Amherst Cecil, April 1924 The Asheville Gazette reported on celebrations for Cornelia’s 25th birthday: “On Friday, August 22, 300 employees attended a garden party and tea at 4 pm with dancing to Guthrie’s Orchestra. Biltmore Dairy employees gave Cornelia a surprise birthday gift of a giant ice cream cake—4’ high and 2’ square at the base—made of 26 gallons of Biltmore Dairy ice cream. It “consisted of alternate layers of chocolate parfait, Lady Ashe ice cream, and a covering of vanilla mousse. The cake was studded with roses and lilies and also bore the inscription ‘May your joys be as many as the sands of the sea.’” Cornelia celebrated the following evening with an open-air ball for 300 people at 9:30 p.m. Guests danced in a pavilion to the Charles Freicher Orchestra. The lawn was lit with Japanese lanterns placed in trees and shrubbery. Cornelia Vanderbilt Cecil around age 25, 1925 The Gazette further noted that, “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 a buffet supper was served at midnight. Although we have no further descriptions of Cornelia’s birthday parties, we are sure they were often celebrated in style. From her earliest days as the “Biltmore Baby” to her life as a celebrated socialite of wealth and style, Cornelia Vanderbilt Cecil exemplified the Roaring 20s and the Jazz Age that still fascinate us today.
Champion Trees: The Estate’s Finest Fall Foliage Posted on August 4, 2021 at 1:18 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico Today, Biltmore is home to a variety of Champion Trees—but when George Vanderbilt purchased the acreage that would become his estate, much of the land was overworked and actually vacant of trees due to activity from the previous settlers. Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted made the following recommendation: “Make a small park into which to look from your house; make a small pleasure ground and garden, farm your river bottom chiefly to keep and fatten live stock with a view to manure; and make the rest a forest, improving the existing woods and planting the old fields.” Landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmsted (seated, center) and George Vanderbilt (standing, center-right) with other key Biltmore figures, 1892. NC Champion Tree Program Several of the trees handpicked by Olmsted are now recognized as North Carolina State Champion Trees. According to the NC Forest Service, the Champion Tree Program highlights native or naturalized species that have garnered attention because of their size, age, or historical significance. Naturally, these trees are some of the superstars of our historic gardens. Let’s take a look at a few and discover why there is no better time to seek out these estate beauties than leaf season. The golden-rain tree (right) can be found in Biltmore’s Shrub Garden. Golden-Rain Tree Perhaps one of the more unusual Champion Trees, the golden-rain tree in the Shrub Garden lends grace and charm to the landscape. Its showy fall color generally includes various shades of yellow and chartreuse. If you look closely, amid the autumn foliage you’ll find inflated seed pods, reminiscent of Chinese lanterns, hanging elegantly. The Katsura tree – which has a scent like cotton candy – lives in the heart of Biltmore’s Azalea Garden. The Katsura was one of the trees hand-picked by Biltmore landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. This Katsura is on the NC Forest Service Registry of Champion Trees. Photo credit The Biltmore Company. Katsura Tree Among the larger Champion Trees is the Katsura tree, found in the Azalea Garden. This tree has magnificent fall color with hues ranging from gold to apricot, accompanied by an unusual, sweet fragrance that permeates the area around the tree. Some describe the smell as cinnamon-like, while others think it is more similar to cotton candy—either way, it’s sure to satisfy the senses! The dawn redwood is located in Biltmore’s Azalea Garden. Additional Champion Trees Other Champion Trees of note on the estate are the dawn redwood in the Azalea Garden with its lush bronze fall color and the Persian ironwood boasting brilliant warm autumnal hues between the Conservatory and the Gardener’s Cottage. The Persian ironwood has a showy fall leaf color, and can be found next to Biltmore’s Conservatory. Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted hand-picked tree species including the Persian ironwood as part of a plan to reforest overworked farmland purchased by George Vanderbilt for the construction of Biltmore House. Photo credit The Biltmore Company. Fall is a favorite season for strolling the gardens and grounds of the estate. During your next visit, we invite you to explore our Shrub Garden, Azalea Garden, and beyond to catch a glimpse of these Champion Trees at their finest: bursting with rich fall color. Feature image: Persian ironwood with peak fall color
Books by the Thousands: A Bibliophile’s Collection Posted on August 4, 2021 at 12:03 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico At the age of 12, George Vanderbilt began keeping meticulous records in a series of journals called “Books I Have Read,” a habit he continued throughout his life. By his death in 1914, he had logged 3,159 books, which means that between 1875 and 1914, he read an average of 81 books a year. Three volumes of George Vanderbilt’s “Books I Have Read” journal series It was well known that George was a bibliophile. A turn-of-the-century New York journalist wrote of him: “He was a bookworm, a student… And his love of books came all from his own inner consciousness, for he was not graduated from any college, and his education, while not neglected, had not been carried beyond the ordinary limits of high schools, though now, I doubt not, he is one of the best read men in the country.” A testament to his passions for books and collecting, the walls of the Library in Biltmore House are lined with walnut shelves housing about half of George’s personal collection of 20,000 volumes. The collection ranges in subject from American and English fiction to world history, religion, philosophy, art, and architecture. About one-third of the volumes were antiquarian purchases, the oldest of which is an Italian work published in 1561. Cedric, George Vanderbilt’s beloved Saint Bernard, lounging in the Library, 1898 The collection also includes many French titles—4,326 to be exact—and George’s “Books I Have Read” journals show that he read many of them. Both fiction and non-fiction, the volumes speak to George’s interest in France and its culture as well as his fluency in the French language. Just as the journals help us to understand how well-read he was, they give us insight into which authors George favored, though it’s difficult to say who his favorite actually was. An excerpt from one of the “Books I Have Read” journals with a note on the birth of George Vanderbilt’s daughter We know he was fond of French author Honoré de Balzac’s work. George noted having read more than 80 Balzac titles and there are a total of 218 books by the author in his collection. We also know that of the 30 works by Charles Dickens listed in his journals, George read many of them more than once. For instance, there are two mentions of The Pickwick Papers, which George read at age 13 and again when he was 25. The elegant binding on the books in George Vanderbilt’s collection are each a work of art George also favored Sir Walter Scott. He read many of his 273 books by Scott two or three times. He read Waverly, a groundbreaking historical novel, in 1875, 1897, and again in 1910. Most of the books George collected were sent to one of the great bookbinders of the period, such as Riviere, Stikeman, Lortic, or David. A few months later, they would return, beautifully bound in Moroccan leather with gilt lettering and decoration, to be placed on the shelves of the Library in Biltmore House.
Providing Gracious Hospitality, One Bite at a Time Posted on August 3, 2021 at 12:07 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Cloreitha Fenton, Biltmore House Food & Beverage Outlets General Manager, has 23 years of providing gracious hospitality, one bite at a time. Cloreitha Fenton provides gracious hospitality with a smile “I’ve been working here half my life,” said Clo, as she’s know by her friends and coworkers. “I like to tell people I’m ‘Biltmore-grown’.” As General Manager, Clo oversees a department of all the employees who operate the food and beverage outlets for Biltmore House & Gardens, including The Bake Shop, Biltmore Dairy Bar®, and Courtyard Market in the Stable Courtyard, Conservatory Café located behind the Conservatory, and all the satellite food carts that pop up for special dates and events. Located in the Stable Courtyard adjacent to Biltmore House, Biltmore Dairy Bar® serves a wide range of sweet treats In the past two decades, Clo has served in a variety of different roles at Biltmore. She joined the estate as a cook at Stable Café, then moved to Deerpark Restaurant. In 2000 she switched her focus to work in purchasing for Food & Beverage, but eventually returned to the Stable Complex as a supervisor for the outlets there. In 2003 she became assistant manager of all estate food outlets, eventually helping open both The Creamery and Smokehouse for the launch of Antler Hill Village in 2010. Guests enjoy ice cream and other delicious treats and snacks at The Creamery in Antler Hill Village Clo became a general manager in 2014 and is responsible for overseeing a team of supervisors, daily operations for the outlets, financials, and ensuring that her dedicated team of employees have everything they need to provide excellent service to guests. Clo offers a training moment to a member of her team “We’re in the mix every day, and we’re very hands-on. Sometimes we have to make decisions on the fly and make things happen,” she said. “In addition to the day-to-day work, my focus is to grow my team, make sure we’re profitable, and make sure my employees are taken care of.” Clo embraces all the values Biltmore represents, but there is one that resonates with her in particular. Biltmore Dairy Bar® offers something special for everyone, including vanilla ice cream inspired by an original Biltmore recipe “I was raised to be gracious, to say ‘ma’am’ and ‘thank you’ and to be kind, and I make sure I maintain that sense of gracious hospitality. I try my best to help all my employees succeed and focus on those who want to grow,” she said. “I want to come in every day and give 100 percent, to give all I can.” Join our gracious hospitality team today! Apply now to become a member of the Biltmore team Biltmore is interested in people who strive for excellence; who are committed to working together, supporting each other, and sharing a sense of stewardship to protect this special place. Our employees shape and enrich extraordinary experiences for guests, using judgment and skills based on our Vanderbilt-inspired legacy of hospitality. In addition, Biltmore has been recognized as one of the Best and Brightest Companies To Work For® in 2021. We invite you to consider joining our dedicated team by viewing careers and applying online. Featured image: Clo Fenton showcases a Winky Bar Sundae in a waffle bowl––a delightful creation inspired by a treat served at the original Biltmore Dairy Bar®.