More than a Hostess: Honoring Edith Vanderbilt Posted on February 21, 2020 at 4:02 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico At the age of 25, Edith Vanderbilt married the nation’s most eligible bachelor and assumed her role as lady of America’s Largest Home®, responsible for ensuring the comfort and entertainment of Biltmore’s many guests. And yet, she was so much more than a hostess. Let’s take a look at some of Edith Vanderbilt’s most incredible efforts and achievements. Students of the Biltmore School of Domestic Science, ca. 1901 Biltmore School of Domestic Science In 1901, Edith Vanderbilt established the Biltmore School of Domestic Science, which trained young Black women in professional housekeeping. The intention behind this initiative was two-fold: to help satisfy the increasing demand for efficient domestic service in the area at the time, and—more importantly to Edith—to help women with socio-economic challenges to become gainfully employed. Coursework covered the duties of a maid, waitress, laundress, cook, and housekeeper; if a student showed a preference for a special line of work, she was given the necessary training to develop that skillset. Additionally, the school created a network to increase its graduates’ prospects of finding work: “The graduating classes form a society for houseworkers. The purpose of this society is mutual help, by raising the respect of the general public for such work and workers…Any positions that are vacant if in good families will be reported, and an effort be made to fill them from among the members of the society.” – The Home Science Magazine, Volume XX, October 1903–March 1904 Archival list of 1906 Biltmore Estate Exhibition prize winners and first and second prize ribbons Biltmore Estate Exhibition In order to nurture a sense of community among estate employees and their families, Edith organized the Biltmore Estate Exhibition, also referred to as the annual fair, in 1905. She distributed seeds as needed to all of the employees to ensure everyone could participate in the competitions. Some of the initial categories included vegetables and herbs, field crops, domestic products such as breads and preserves, needlework, and baskets. Categories later expanded to include flowers, hogs, and poultry as well as a miscellaneous category to include eggs, honey, and various other items. Prizes included ribbons and a variety of garden books. Though Edith was in London during the 1907 event, estate superintendent Chauncey Beadle wrote to her: “Not another day shall pass without a full report to you of the Exhibition, which was celebrated in the grove above the Farm Cottages yesterday afternoon with the most auspicious weather that it was possible to have. The attendance and exhibits were very satisfactory, and, I believe all who participated enjoyed the day, the social intercourse and objects which were displayed.” Thanks to oral histories, we know that the fairs continued into the 1940s. Students of the Biltmore Dairy Moonlight School, ca. 1920s (Photo courtesy of the McCarson Family) Biltmore Dairy Moonlight School In 1914, Edith founded the Biltmore Dairy Moonlight School to teach illiterate estate workers how to read and write. Her larger intention was to attack the underlying causes of economic inequality and disenfranchisement. Classes were taught by Columbia University interns and graduates, who were receiving arguably the best teacher training in the nation at the time. Edith Vanderbilt personally selected the textbook used at the school and even taught a class from time to time: “It is an interesting picture: one of the world’s richest women… teaching dairy workers how to read and write in a horse barn in the mountains of North Carolina.” – “Aristocracy and Appalachia: Edith Vanderbilt and Her Moonlight School” (2011) by Wilkie L. Whitney While Biltmore’s was certainly not the first moonlight school, the model Edith pioneered was so effective, it inspired the foundation of many similar programs across North Carolina—all with the support of Edith as their most vocal advocate. Edith Vanderbilt (second from right) and her fellow Red Cross volunteers, ca. 1917–1919 (Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress: American National Red Cross Collection) Red Cross Efforts during the Great War When the United States became involved in the first World War, Edith Vanderbilt was splitting her time between Biltmore and Washington, DC—but no matter where she was, she always found ways to support the Red Cross during this turbulent time. While in Asheville, she sponsored a golf tournament to raise funds for the Red Cross. “The trophy was the gift of Mrs. Edith Vanderbilt, the rules providing that all entrance fees went to the Red Cross, and that no trophies should be given unless donated.“ – “Carolina Mountains Having Great Season,” The Times Dispatch, 19 August 1917 While in Washington, DC, she volunteered with the Red Cross as part of a Canteen Unit, which provided hot coffee, light refreshments, and mail services to troops at railroad junctions. True to form, Edith was recognized for going above and beyond at her Canteen’s encampment: “Mrs. George Vanderbilt is quite wonderful, so cool and collected and executive. She took her motor and went off shopping, bought some extra equipment, a table for the tent to hold the telephone, some camp chairs, a rake to rake up the trash, a pump to pump the water into the cauldron, a mail bag, stamps, wire baskets; besides, she organized the post-office.” – Presidents and Pies: Life in Washington 1897–1919 (1920) by Isabel Anderson Edith Vanderbilt arriving at the first State Fair during her tenure as president, ca. 1921 First Female President of the North Carolina Agricultural Society In 1920, Edith Vanderbilt was elected the first female president of the North Carolina Agricultural Society as well as the 60th State Fair. Her first address in the role was one for the books. “Anti-suffragists who have feared woman’s entrance into politics found themselves happy today when Mrs. Edith Vanderbilt made about the smartest 15-minute speech to a joint session of the general assembly heard within the historic walls of the state house in a long time…explaining in the outset that it would be like the modern skirt, to the extent that its length would cover the subject and its brevity attract attention. She was right.” – “Woman Makes First Address to Legislature,” The Charlotte Observer, 3 February 1921 Under her leadership, the State Fair focused more on agriculture as opposed to sideshows. Edith traveled and wrote widely to promote the event and help attract exhibitors. She also led initiatives to improve the fairgrounds. She would ultimately be re-elected to lead the 1922, 1923, and 1924 fairs, and then continued to serve on the executive committee following her tenure as president. Edith Vanderbilt (center) and her daughter Cornelia (left of center) greet guests arriving in Biltmore Village, ca. 1924 More than a Hostess Beyond her duties as wife, mother, and lady of the house, Edith Vanderbilt felt a great responsibility towards her community. She was passionate about education, agriculture, and literacy. She was active in civic affairs at the local, state, and national level. Perhaps most impressive, she used her privilege to support those in need and the causes in which she so strongly believed. Cheers to this extraordinary woman! Feature image: Edith Vanderbilt gathering letters from soldiers while volunteering for the Red Cross, ca. 1918 (Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress: American National Red Cross Collection)
Tulips in Biltmore’s Walled Garden: A Brief History Posted on February 6, 2020 at 12:00 am.Written by Amy Dangelico Each spring, thousands upon thousands of beautiful and brightly colored tulips fill the formal flowerbeds of Biltmore’s Walled Garden. Their vivid hues are a favorite part of the season for many guests. But preparation for the show actually begins long before warmer weather arrives. According to Parker Andes, director of Horticulture: “Planting for spring in the Walled Garden begins months before you see the results. One reason we get continuous color is because we plant several varieties of up to six bulbs per hole!“ In honor of this seasonal celebration, let’s take a look at the history of tulips in Biltmore’s Walled Garden. The Vegetable and Flower Garden (now the Walled Garden), cica 1895 The Vegetable and Flower Garden Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted originally envisioned the Walled Garden as a multipurpose space, providing fine fruits and vegetables as well as fresh flowers for Biltmore House. The design was inspired by English kitchen gardens, which were often walled to protect them from wind and wild animals. George Vanderbilt, however, did not share this vision. Instead, he thought the Walled Garden should be one of “ornament, not utility.” While fruits and vegetables were grown there intermittently, most of them were gradually phased out over time. Tulips in the Walled Garden, circa 1930 The Earliest Hint of Tulips It is difficult to say exactly when tulips made their debut in the Walled Garden. However, one letter in our archives tells us the blooming bulbs have been planted there for almost a century. On April 14, 1922, Estate Superintendent Chauncey Beadle wrote to Cornelia Vanderbilt: “The tulips in the walled garden are so glorious that we are trying out an experiment of sending you a box today by express for Easter. We shall hope they will bring you something of their original beauty and charm to make Easter even more wonderful. Spring is very much advanced here, even the yellow rambler roses are opening.“ The showy flower was perhaps chosen for the dramatic beds of the Walled Garden as an homage to the Dutch heritage of the Vanderbilts—and the term “Biltmore.” The name selected for the family’s country retreat derives from “Bildt,” the town in Holland where George Vanderbilt’s ancestors originated, and “more,” an Old English word for open, rolling land. Tulips have served as a status symbol for the Dutch since the height of “Tulipmania” in the mid-1600s when speculation on rare bulbs created an investment bubble and the price of one bulb was equal to ten years of income. Tulips in the Walled Garden delight guests year after year. The Tradition Continues Tulips in Biltmore’s Walled Garden have long been a favorite element of the season. Even before Biltmore House opened to the public in 1930, the Vanderbilts allowed some public access to the area a few days a week during spring so that locals and out-of-state visitors alike could enjoy estate gardens in bloom. This tradition continues today with Spring at Biltmore, our seasonal celebration of the estate’s ever-changing progression of springtime blooms. Plan your visit today and join us as we delight in the more than 80,000 tulip bulbs that lend their dramatic color to the Walled Garden.
Happy Birthday, Frederick Law Olmsted Posted on January 10, 2020 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton Happy birthday to Frederick Law Olmsted, born April 26, 1822. Olmsted is often referred to as the “father of landscape architecture in America,” and is best known for New York’s Central Park, which he co-designed with architect and landscape designer Calvert Vaux. Frederick Law Olmsted and daughter Marion Olmsted near the French Broad River at Biltmore, ca. 1895. (Photo courtesy of the United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site.) Each April, we honor Olmsted’s work as the designer of the artful landscape surrounding Biltmore House. Envisioning Biltmore Olmsted knew William Henry Vanderbilt, George Vanderbilt’s father, when they both lived on Staten Island, and the designer had already worked on several Vanderbilt family projects when George Vanderbilt approached him in 1888 to advise on the first 2,000 acres of North Carolina property he’d already purchased. Mountain views from Biltmore House “Now I have brought you here to examine it and tell me if I have been doing anything very foolish,” Vanderbilt reportedly told Olmsted. After visiting Vanderbilt’s acreage in Asheville, North Carolina, Olmsted gave his young client a frank assessment of the property: “The soil seems to be generally poor. The woods are miserable, all the good trees having again and again been culled out and only the runts left. The topography is most unsuitable for anything that can properly be called park scenery. My advice would be to make a small park in which you look from your house, make a small pleasure ground and gardens; farm your river bottoms chiefly and…keep and fatten livestock with a view to manure and…make the rest a forest.” Olmsted’s Collaboration with Richard Morris Hunt Plans for both Biltmore House and its surrounding landscape changed in 1889 when Vanderbilt and architect Richard Morris Hunt toured France together and the scale of Vanderbilt’s new estate expanded. Photo caption: The Biltmore Company. Olmsted wrote that he was nervous, not sure how to “merge stately architectural work with natural or naturalistic landscape work.” But the architect and landscape designer worked together “without a note of discord,” and Olmsted biographer Witold Rybczynki says that the landscape architect achieved something completely original at Biltmore: the first combination of French and English landscape designs. Designing a living masterpiece Transitions between formal and natural gardens were important, as was the use of native plants, small trees and large shrubs, and color and texture year-round. The Approach Road, which Olmsted designed to achieve a “sensation passing through the remote depths of a deep forest,” only to have “the view of the Residence, with its orderly dependencies, to break suddenly, fully upon one.” Photo credit: The Biltmore Company. Biltmore would prove to be Olmsted’s last design. As he approached the end of his work on the estate, he said “It is a great work of peace we are engaged in and one of these days we will all be proud of our parts in it.” He said Biltmore was “the most permanently important public work” of his career. More than 125 years later, we continue to benefit from his vision. Experience Biltmore Blooms Spring is a wonderful season to experience the mature landscape that Frederick Law Olmsted envisioned. Plan a visit now during Biltmore Blooms, our annual celebration of spring. Featured image: Portrait of Frederick Law Olmsted by John Singer Sargent
Perfect Pairings: Red Wine and Chocolate at Biltmore Posted on January 7, 2020 at 3:58 pm.Written by Jean Sexton If you’re looking for a match made in heaven, look no farther than the Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting offered daily at Biltmore’s Winery. How it works “Pairing red wines with chocolates is an exciting way to discover nuances in both flavors,” said Les Norman, one of several knowledgeable Winery hosts who guide guests through the tasting. Biltmore Winery host Les Norman guides guests through the Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting “Biltmore has partnered with French Broad Chocolates to provide several different delectable chocolates to pair with some of our premium Biltmore wines,” Les said. “In some cases, this local artisan chocolate company that specializes in bean-to-bar products has created a new flavor to match specific characteristics in a certain wine.” Pouring Biltmore red wines for the Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting Getting started Les likes to begin the tasting with a bit of background about Biltmore Winery and the award-winning wines handcrafted there. He offers guests a fascinating glimpse into the estate’s vineyards, production methods, and winemaking philosophy under the direction of Winemaker Sharon Fenchak. Enjoy our Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting featuring premium Biltmore wines and artisan chocolate truffles from French Broad Chocolates. Once he sets the scene, Les describes the process of tasting wines, and has participants take a fun jellybean “test” to better understand how smell and taste affect sensory perceptions. Pairing red wines and chocolates “Now we’re ready to pair our red Biltmore wines with chocolates!” Les declares. Les makes sure guests take time to savor the bouquet of each wine and understand its flavor profile as they taste the possibilities. He offers interesting details about viscosity and alcohol content, effortlessly blending his extensive knowledge of wines with the delightful pairings. A fresh raspberry truffle pairs perfectly with our Antler Hill Zinfandel Rockpile 2017 The tasting continues with amazing pairings of some of our premium red wines with exceptional chocolate truffles crafted by locally owned French Broad Chocolates. Some truffles work well with several of the wines, so be sure to save a sip or two in each glass! Discover the delights of red wine and chocolate Biltmore Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting at the Winery Our Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting is offered daily at the Winery at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. The cost is $55 per person, and capacity is limited to 10 guests for each one-hour event. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for these popular daily tastings. To reserve, you must have a daytime ticket, a Biltmore Annual Pass, or an overnight stay booked at one of our properties. Guests must be 21 years of age and older with a valid ID to attend this or any other specialty wine experience. To reserve your spot, call 1800-543-2961 or visit any Guest Services location on the estate.
Highlights From Our 2019 Vineyard Harvest Posted on January 3, 2020 at 10:19 am.Written by Jean Sexton In 2019, Biltmore’s vineyard produced 177.5 tons of grapes on approximately 45 acres of mature vitis vinifera vines—that’s almost double last year’s output. Biltmore vineyard supervisor Philip Oglesby “Harvest began on August 22, and that’s the earliest start I remember in more than 20 years,” said Philip Oglesby, Vineyard Supervisor. “We picked until October 11, and the weather cooperated with long, hot, dry days that allowed the grapes to mature to their full potential.” With an average yield of more than four tons per acre, our 2019 harvest can be considered one of the best in recent memory. Grapes being picked by hand in Biltmore’s vineyard Quantity and quality In addition to the quantity, the quality of fruit produced in 2019 was outstanding. Weather played an important role in the process as relatively mild spring temperatures gave way to the kind of hot, dry summer conditions that create earlier-than-normal ripening times. Grapes for our Biltmore Reserve wines are grown at the estate or selected from local partners “As always, we look forward to the fine wines that will be handcrafted following the harvest—especially our Biltmore® Reserve wines that are created from estate-grown grapes,” Philip said. “This special designation represents our finest local vintages and our continued commitment to our agricultural heritage.” Highlights from Biltmore’s vineyards: Cabernet Franc 37 tons on 8.2 acres Cabernet Sauvignon 32 tons on 10.2 acres Chardonnay 103 tons on 25 acres Merlot 5.5 tons on 1.2 acres Total: 177.5 tons on 44.6 acres Highlights from our partner vineyards Grapes ripening in Biltmore’s vineyard Washington: Biltmore winemaker Sharon Fenchak selected approximately 160 tons of grapes from the state of Washington (America’s second largest producer of wine grapes), with average brix (measurement for the number of grams of sugar present per 100 grams of liquid) around 25, which is comparable to last year. September was very rainy and a hard freeze in early October preventing the grapes from ripening further. Varietals: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Mourvedre, Petite Verdot, and Tempranillo. Increased selection by 12% compared to 2018. As the grapes ripen in our vineyards, the fruit must be protected from uninvited guests such as robins, geese, and turkeys. California: Sharon selected approximately 25 different varietals from multiple growing regions throughout the state with an average brix of 23, which was slightly higher than 2018. Arroyo Seco, CA Approximately 18,000 acres located along the central coast in Monterey County. Cold winter, mild-but-wet spring, and a few summertime heat spikes left grapes with a little more hang-time and a later harvest by about 2–3 weeks. Varietals: Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat, Chenin Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. Mendocino County, CA North coast; 14, 512 acres includes 10 different American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) with very diverse climates. Wet spring and late bud break gave way to moderate weather for most of the growing season; yields were light-to-average, with good fruit quality for the vintage. Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. Russian River Valleyin Sonoma County, CA About 15,000 acres of vineyards; known for cool-climate grapes. Heavy rain in late winter and a wet spring led to a moderate yield with a good and healthy crop. Varietals: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel. We selected about 120 tons of fruit from the region, with the majority being Pinot Noir, of which about half will be handcrafted to become Vanderbilt Reserve wines. Tempranillo is a great way to spice up your wine selections Savor Biltmore Wines Whether you’re visiting the estate and enjoying complimentary tastings at our Winery or stocking up on your favorite varietals in your neighborhood or online, we invite you to savor our award-winning wines today!
From Gardener’s Cottage to Gallery Posted on December 17, 2019 at 4:02 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico One of the first residences completed on the estate, the Gardener’s Cottage served as the home of Biltmore’s first head gardener. This historic house was designed by the firm of Richard Morris Hunt, who served as architect of Biltmore House. The Gardener’s Cottage is located within Biltmore’s Walled Garden, adjacent to the Conservatory. Today, the Gardener’s Cottage is transformed into our For Your Home Gallery. Honoring the Vanderbilt’s legacy of timeless style and gracious living, our gallery offers a curated selection of our licensed products—exclusively designed for Biltmore and inspired by various elements of the property. From the prints on the walls to the fine details in the furniture, all gallery items are inspired by the estate. The Inspiration & Design Process It all starts with a visit to the estate. Our industry-leading manufacturing partners send their distinguished designers to seek inspiration from Biltmore—from the architecture and archives to the historic gardens and grounds. Our Imperial Dragon Lamp was inspired by a dragon-fish fountainhead along the Pergola. The designers then process their insights to create a rendering that captures their vision for the product. This rendering may go through many versions to ensure the piece is functional, appealing, and suited for today’s homes and lifestyles. Renderings receive Biltmore’s stamp of approval prior to production. Take your time as you stroll through this historic home, soaking in each stunningly unique feature. The final result is a beautiful furnishing that has a unique connection to Biltmore and meets the highest craftsmanship and quality standards. We invite you to visit the estate and discover these exclusive items amid their source of inspiration: America’s Largest Home® and its 8,000-acres of Blue Ridge Mountain beauty. Luxurious outdoor furniture with the magnificent façade of Biltmore House. Can’t visit right now? Select items are also available for purchase at biltmoreshop.com/gallery. Feature image: An archival image of the historic Gardener’s Cottage from the Biltmore House collection.
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition by the Numbers Posted on December 11, 2019 at 3:22 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico Downton Abbey: The Exhibition ended September 7, 2020. Please enjoy this archived content. In honor of Downton Abbey: The Exhibition—on display at Biltmore now through September 7, 2020—let’s take a closer look and add up some of the elements of this immersive estate experience has to offer. Showcased at The Biltmore Legacy in Antler Hill Village 58 costumes on display This tally includes 53 costumes from the television series—plus 5 costumes from the recent feature film. Notable pieces: both of Lady Mary’s wedding gowns and both of Lady Edith’s wedding gowns. 44 ½ minutes of video from 16 segments Video segments and compilations are played throughout the exhibition itself, including a 5-minute introduction film as well as a 6-minute farewell film. Take a deeper dive into Downton Abbey 35 display drawers and glass cases The interactive display drawers and showcases feature a variety of props from the series—from books, letters, and postcards to gloves, necklaces, and tiaras. Marvel at the Crawleys’ Dining Room 6 of the series’ most recognizable sets Get a remarkably up-close look at Mrs. Patmore’s Kitchen, the Crawleys’ Dining Room, Lady Mary’s Bedroom, the Servants’ Stairs & Hallway, the Servant’s Dining Room, and Mr. Carson’s Pantry. Rediscover your favorite characters 21 characters highlighted These profiles are largely featured in the exhibition’s “Great Hall of Character Stories”—an interactive hallway where you can get better acquainted with those associated with Downton Abbey. 22 days of installation While plans to bring this exhibition to Biltmore began long before, it took the better part of a month to prepare the infrastructure and physically install the exhibition in its entirety. Exterior of Amherst at Deerpark 10,860 square feet spanning 2 estate locations Multimedia presentations in the ballroom of Amherst at Deerpark (8,260 square feet) combined with costume displays at The Biltmore Legacy (2,600 square feet) make for one not-to-be-missed experience. Plan your visit today and join us for Downton Abbey: The Exhibition. Discover the magic of America’s Largest Home®
Who Runs the House: Downton Abbey vs. Biltmore Posted on December 11, 2019 at 3:15 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico Downton Abbey: The Exhibition ended September 7, 2020. Please enjoy this archived content. In honor of Biltmore playing host to Downton Abbey: The Exhibition, we’ve recognized some of the similarities—and differences—between these two great houses. Now, let’s take a deeper dive into one of the primary differences of domestic service in American and English households of the era were managed. It all boils down to one simple question: Who runs the house? Archival sketch of Biltmore House façade, drafted prior to construction, does not include the glass-roofed Winter Garden that was added as plans were finalized George Vanderbilt’s vision for Biltmore was heavily influenced by the model of similar English estates, much like Downton Abbey; however, the American interpretation of this system had its differences to the British one. Though they often hired British staff to manage Biltmore House, in the United States it was the standard for the head housekeeper to be in charge over the staff, rather than the butler. Bell Board from below stairs in Downton Abbey, as seen in our newest exhibition At Downton Abbey, it’d be hard to imagine Mr. Carson, the butler, serving beneath Mrs. Hughes, the head housekeeper—though she certainly illustrated that she was more than capable of influencing him. At Biltmore, head housekeeper Emily Rand King, affectionately known as Mrs. King although she was unmarried, ran almost everything downstairs at Biltmore just as Mr. Carson does at Downton Abbey. Detail of Call Box in the Butler’s Pantry in Biltmore House “Mrs. King was the boss,” said Winnie Titchener-Coyle, associate archivist. “That’s one of the differences—in the U.S., women could have that high-level managerial role.” While Mrs. King didn’t oversee the butler’s work per se, she certainly had more responsibilities than that of a head housekeeper in a British household—Downton Abbey’s Mrs. Hughes, for instance. “Mrs. King administered salaries and had to have her own budget,” Winnie said. “She supervised staff, and she managed household supplies and linens, cleaning supplies and tools.” The Butler’s Pantry, as seen on The Biltmore House Backstairs Tour Plan your visit for now through September 7, 2020, to discover Downton Abbey: The Exhibition—on display at both Amherst at Deerpark and The Biltmore Legacy in Antler Hill Village. We invite you to learn more about the staff of Biltmore House—as well as the staff of Downton Abbey—with our new Through the Servants’ Eyes Tour during your next visit to Biltmore. Feature image: Servants’ Hall in Biltmore House, where staff could relax and socialize when not on duty
Creating A Glorious Gingerbread Cottage Posted on December 9, 2019 at 2:50 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Thank you for enjoying this archived content from 2019! Each year, the pastry team at The Inn on Biltmore Estate® welcomes Christmas at Biltmore with a special tradition: the construction of a gingerbread cottage inspired by the beautiful details of George Vanderbilt’s private estate. The Cottage on Biltmore Estate Choosing the perfect gingerbread cottage For 2019, the team has chosen to reproduce the charming Market Gardener’s Cottage that greets guests as they travel to and from The Inn on Biltmore Estate. Designed by Richard Howland Hunt, son of Biltmore House architect Richard Morris Hunt, the Market Gardener’s Cottage dates back to 1896. It was the site of the estate’s Market Garden, also known as the Truck Farm. Fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the fertile fields surrounding the cottage were served in Biltmore House, and the surplus was sold to area hotels, grocers, and community members. Now known as Cottage on Biltmore Estate, this historic structure is offered as a premier overnight property that allows guests to enjoy an extraordinary lodging experience. A challenging creation Members of The Inn’s pastry team contributed more than 295 hours of labor to construct this gingerbread replica of Biltmore’s historic Market Gardener’s Cottage. “Creating the cottage was extra challenging for us this year because we had to halt production for two days since Thanksgiving was so late,” said Pastry Chef Dana McFarland who oversees the project each year. A family of bears on the steps of the gingerbread cottage Special gingerbread cottage ingredients Her team used the following ingredients for their massive gingerbread construction project: 124 pounds of powdered sugar 17 pounds of gingerbread 15 pounds of modeling chocolate 14 pounds of Jolly Rancher® hard candies 8 pounds of fondant 5 pounds of old-fashioned candy sticks 5 pounds of caramel chocolate balls 4 pounds of Jelly Belly® jelly beans 9 ounces of M&M’s® 2 ounces of Sixlets® In researching the Market Gardener’s Cottage to make sure they had the details correct, the pastry team learned that there were originally several greenhouses behind it. They created an array of fruits and vegetables that might be grown in a greenhouse at this time of year to display in the cottage’s courtyard, including apples, butternut squash, carrots, pears, and pumpkins. Confection perfection! “All the shingles on the cottage were hand-cut out of modeling paste,” Chef McFarland said. “And though most guests have guessed that the courtyard bricks are made out of Tootsie Rolls®, we actually used Jolly Rancher candies to get that look.” The decorated Christmas tree in the courtyard of the cottage One special highlight of the gingerbread cottage is the Christmas tree in the courtyard–it has tiny garlands of popped sorghum on it–and it spins! “The wreaths and garlands on the cottage all have individually-cut cut green flowers on them to give the appearance of evergreens,” said Chef McFarland, “while the bushes in the front and the trees in the back are made with Rice Krispy® treats.” A perfectly detailed gingerbread wreath Last but certainly not least, Chef McFarland notes that there are 60 feet of mini lights on the outside of the gingerbread cottage, and an infuser placed inside the structure makes it look as if there’s real smoke rising from the chimney. Special thanks to The Inn’s talented pastry team of Chef Dana McFarland, Megan Shreve, Ron Levitan, Lucas Conti, Leilani Padilla, Rachel Tipping, Ashley Buchleitner, Laura Hinzman, Danyelle Sander, Sarah Vess, and Anthony Mushinski for all their hard work! Visit now Create your own charming confection at one of our Gingerbread House Tea events! This charming confectionery delight was displayed in the Lobby of The Inn during our 2019 Christmas at Biltmore celebration.
Romance Sparkles at Biltmore Posted on December 2, 2019 at 9:30 am.Written by Jean Sexton In addition to being America’s Largest Home®, Biltmore also features a state-of-the-art working winery. There are other distinctions that set Biltmore’s Winery apart, such as the fact that our winemaker crafts both still and sparkling wines here. It’s unusual to offer both—most wineries specialize in one or the other—but Biltmore has a long history of doing the unexpected. Our sparkling legacy One reason for our sparkling wine program is to honor the legacy of Edith Stuyvesant Vanderbilt’s family. Edith Stuyvesant Dresser’s formal engagement photo, 1898 On May 31, 1898, the Asheville Citizen reported the following story in connection with the upcoming marriage of George Vanderbilt and his fiancée Edith Stuyvesant Dresser: The wine with which the health of the bride is to be drunk at the wedding breakfast of Miss Edith Stuyvesant Dresser and George Vanderbilt Thursday has a history, according to the Washington Post. Many years ago the wine cellar of Daniel Le Roy, one of the pioneer summer residents of Newport, was famous, and large sums were offered for what remained of it when Mr. Le Roy died. None of this famous wine was ever sold, but as the stock decreased Mrs. Le Roy directed that it should not be used except at the wedding of her grandchildren and their descendants, a certain number of bottles being apportioned to each. “Once we discovered this story,” said Jill Whitfield, senior marketing manager for Biltmore Wines. “We wanted to share the details so that everyone could enjoy it. It continues to inspire us as we create different styles of sparkling wines perfect for all celebrations,” Jill said. Isn’t it romantic? Romance features a stunning floral label Our Biltmore Estate® Romance Brut honors that charming gesture. Romance is handcrafted from grapes selected from our California vineyard partners, including a hint of Pinot Noir that shows up in its delicate rosy straw color. The soft bouquet offers hints of citrus, apple, and brioche, while fine, tiny bubbles give way to flavors of white peach and a surprisingly creamy mouthfeel. Pair it with your favorite party fare including prosciutto-wrapped melon, chicken salad croissants, brie, and—of course—wedding cake! In addition to being an exceptional sparkling wine, Romance features a lovely floral label that enhances any special occasion, from bridal showers and receptions to engagements and anniversaries. Handcrafted in traditional style Our sparkling wines are handcrafted in the traditional style “All our sparkling wines are handcrafted in the traditional méthode champenoise,” said Jill. “This process requires a secondary fermentation in the bottle, and is vital for developing the delicate bubbles that characterize outstanding sparkling wines.” Let the party bubble up! Sip Pas de Deux Sec with food or create sparkling cocktails If you’re looking for a versatile sparkling wine that pairs well with a surprising variety of foods, opt for our Pas de Deux® Moscato Sparkling Wine. “This semi-sweet sparkler has a slight orange aroma that complements its flavor profiles, plus flavors of wild strawberry and lemon,” said Jill. “Our Pas de Deux is a delightful addition to sweet treats such as fresh fruit, pound cake, and crème brûlée, and it’s a perfect partner for spicy cuisines,” Jill noted. “And it was recently awarded 90 points by Beverage Testing Institute!” More great ratings Put Biltmore Estate Brut on your “bucket list!” Our Biltmore Estate® Brut recently earned 90 Points + Editor’s Choice from Wine Enthusiast, making it another excellent choice for celebrations or any occasion that calls for bubbly. “It’s a refreshing blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir ,” Jill said, “and it offers a good balance of citrus and strawberries with hints of honey and apricot.” Our finest sparkling Biltmore sparkling wines are characterized by fine, tiny bubbles For a truly elegant gesture, Jill suggests serving our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Blanc de Blancs. “This is our finest sparkling wine,” Jill said. “It is crafted from North Carolina Chardonnay grapes and features tiny, elegant bubbles that burst to release tropical and citrus flavors. If you want to make an impression on someone special, this is the wine to choose.” Celebrate any occasion with Biltmore sparkling wines No matter what you’re serving or celebrating, pair your good times with Biltmore wines!