Biltmore’s History of Giving Back During the Holidays Posted on December 1, 2023 at 3:01 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Christmas has always been a special time at Biltmore, from George Vanderbilt’s opening of Biltmore House on Christmas Eve 1895 to the Christmas at Biltmore celebrations of today. The holidays at Biltmore have also been a time of intentionally giving back to the community. Although George and Edith Vanderbilt made philanthropic contributions year-round, Christmas provided an opportunity to connect with the residents of Asheville and Western North Carolina to share in the spirit of the season. George Vanderbilt (standing, right) traveling in Spain with his cousin Clarence Barker (seated, left), niece Maria Louisa Schieffelin (seated, right), and her husband William Jay Schieffelin (standing, left), 1891. The Vanderbilts created Clarence Barker Memorial Hospital in Asheville, NC, in honor of Barker who passed away at Biltmore in 1896. Giving back through healthcare A particular priority for the Vanderbilts was making high-quality medical care more accessible to the community. George, Edith, and Cornelia Vanderbilt financially supported area hospitals including the Clarence Barker Memorial Hospital (later the Biltmore Hospital), which they founded in Biltmore Village to provide care to residents of the estate and the area. During the holidays, however, the Vanderbilts contributed a little extra to extend cheer to the staff and patients. Beginning as early as 1903, Edith Vanderbilt ensured patients in the wards of the Clarence Barker Memorial Hospital, Mission Hospital, and General Hospital No. 19 at Oteen had a festive supply of estate-grown holly, mistletoe, wreaths, and Christmas trees. One House Mother at General Hospital No. 19 assured Edith that her annual donations “provide Christmas Cheer for the patients in this hospital.”[1] Archival photograph of All Souls Church in Biltmore Village, ca. 1906. Faith and philanthropy Christmas also provided an opportunity for the Vanderbilts to grow closer to their faith community at All Souls’ Church in Biltmore Village. From the earliest days of All Souls’, George Vanderbilt not only attended services but found ways to include members of the church in his Christmas celebrations. In 1896, for example, George Vanderbilt hosted members of the choir and administration of All Souls’ at a Christmas Day tea held at Biltmore House. The Asheville Citizen-Times remarked George “entertained his guests in a manner that made the evening a memorable one. After tea, the guests were shown over Biltmore House and made to feel thoroughly at home.”[2] George and Edith hosted the choir each year they were at Biltmore for Christmas until 1913. Invitation to the 1909 Biltmore employee Christmas party. Giving back through employee Christmas parties A new tradition began in 1897 when All Souls’ Church was selected as the location for Biltmore’s employee Christmas party. Festive décor included a large star made of holly and pine hanging from the center of the chancel arch along with live pine trees growing in boxes in each corner of the building. A 25-foot spruce replaced the choir stalls, “beautifully dressed with gleaming ornaments and lights and gifts, and from its topmost branch was suspended a large figure of an angel which seemed to waft a benediction upon the assembly and the ceremonies of the night.”[3] While the décor was not quite so elaborate in subsequent years, the 1902 decorations included a star made up of 200 incandescent lightbulbs in what must have been a dazzling display accompanying Christmas services.[4] Archival photograph of Christmas decorations at the Biltmore Parish Day School, ca. 1899. Making Christmas bright for children Also bringing cheer to the children of Biltmore Village was the Biltmore Parish Day School, run by All Souls’ Church in the Parish School building beginning in 1898. With their focus on creating memorable Christmases for their employees, it is no surprise that George and Edith also supported the Parish Day School’s holiday celebrations. The All Souls’ Yearbook for 1899 reveals separate parties were held for older and younger children, both involving Christmas trees, gifts, and refreshments. An 1899 All Souls’ Yearbook notes the importance of this party: “As it was the only Christmas some had, we endeavored to make it as bright as possible… some of them had never seen a lighted tree before, it was a genuine delight to them.”[5] George and Edith established the operating fund with which the school funded its yearly Christmas celebrations, as well as provided scholarships to students who could not cover the $10 annual tuition. The Vanderbilt (now Cecil) family’s efforts focus not only on supporting their neighbors and children within the community but also on promoting environmental stewardship. A Vanderbilt tradition of giving back As the holiday season brings evergreen trees to the forefront of our minds, there’s never been a better time to continue our philanthropic efforts that began over a century ago with the Biltmore Forest School. By collaborating with Southern Highlands Reserve to restore the high elevation spruce-fir forests of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, the construction of a new greenhouse dedicated to red spruce propagation and regional reforestation projects is now underway. Chase Pickering, Vice President of Biltmore Guest Experience, emphasizes the significance of this work. Our partnership “will help forests thrive and support the wildlife that rely on them,” Chase explained. “Our shared commitment to environmental stewardship and its impact will be felt for years to come, ensuring future generations can enjoy our region’s natural beauty and unique ecosystem.” [1] Letter held in the Biltmore House Archives, 1919. [2] Asheville Citizen-Times, December 26, 1896; p. 1. [3] Asheville Citizen-Times, December 27, 1897; p. 2. [4] Asheville Citizen-Times, December 26, 1902; p. 5. [5] All Souls’ Church Yearbook, 1899.
Peanut Butter Yule Log or “Bûche de Noël” Recipe Posted on December 1, 2023 at 11:00 am.Written by Heather Angel Delight family and friends with a dessert as delicious as it is beautiful. Inspired by the traditional French Bûche de Noël or yule log seasonal cake, Biltmore Pastry Chef Aaron Morgan developed a fresh twist on the classic confection with the addition of a rich peanut butter-cream cheese filling and elegant Italian buttercream icing that resembles freshly fallen snow. Once the cake is assembled, branch out with decorative elements such as marzipan mushrooms, sugared berries, and fresh herbs that help make your yule log the highlight of any holiday or winter-themed gathering. Wine Pairing Suggestion: Slice and serve with our Biltmore Estate Riesling or Limited Release Dry Riesling. Peanut Butter Yule Log or “Buche de Noel” is a decadent dessert for the season–especially when paired with Biltmore Estate Riesling! Peanut Butter Yule Log or “Bûche de Noël” Total time: 5 hours Serving Size: 6 people Ingredients: For the biscuit roulade 3 whole large eggs 6 large egg yolks 1 cup granulated sugar ½ cup all-purpose flour 3 large egg whites Powdered sugar, for dusting and shaping For the peanut butter filling 4 ounces cream cheese, softened ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 cup creamy peanut butter 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract ½ cup heavy cream For the Italian buttercream 2 cups granulated sugar ½ cup water 1 tablespoon light corn syrup 5 large egg whites 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened and cut into ½-inch pieces For decoration (optional) Marzipan mushrooms, cocoa powder, chocolate Florentine lace cookies, fresh rosemary, fresh or sugared cranberries, etc., as desired Instructions: First, make the biscuit roulade: Heat the oven to 350°F. Spray the bottom and sides of a half-sheet pan (approximately 18x13x1 inches) with cooking spray; line the bottom with parchment paper, then spray the parchment with cooking spray. Set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer using the whisk attachment, beat whole eggs, egg yolks and 1 cup granulated sugar on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture reaches the “ribbon stage,” or turns thick, pale, foamy and forms ribbons in the batter when the whisk is lifted. Fold in flour until just combined. In a separate large bowl using an electric hand mixer, beat 3 egg whites on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Fold the egg whites into the egg-flour mixture until just combined. Pour and spread the batter into the prepared sheet pan. Bake on the center rack of the oven for 14 to 16 minutes or until the cake is just baked through and lightly golden. Sprinkle the top of the hot cake generously with powdered sugar (this will help to keep the cake from sticking). Run a paring knife along the edge of the cake to loosen it from the edges of the sheet pan. Top the cake with a light, clean kitchen towel and a large cutting board; carefully but quickly, invert the cake onto the towel/cutting board. Remove the sheet pan and parchment paper from the cake. Sprinkle the top of the cake generously with powdered sugar. Starting from one short end, tightly roll up the warm cake in the towel; transfer to a cutting board, small sheet pan or large plate, seam side-down. Set aside to cool completely, about 2 hours (you can refrigerate the cake to speed up the cooling process, if desired). Meanwhile, make the peanut butter filling: In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat cream cheese and ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar on medium speed for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Beat in the peanut butter, melted butter and vanilla extract on medium speed for 1 minute or until well-combined and smooth, scraping the sides often. In a separate large bowl using an electric hand mixer, beat heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Fold the heavy cream into the cream cheese-peanut butter mixture until just combined. Ready to assemble! Assemble the cake: On a clean work surface, carefully unroll the fully cooled cake. Spread peanut butter filling evenly over the top of the cake all the way to the edges. Reroll the cake and return to the cutting board/sheet pan; cover with plastic wrap and freeze for 1 hour to set the cake. Meanwhile, make the Italian buttercream: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stir 2 cups granulated sugar, water and corn syrup to combine. Cook, stirring occasionally, until an instant-read thermometer reads 245°F to 250°F when inserted into the mixture. While the sugar mixture cooks, in the bowl of a stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat 5 egg whites on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. With the stand mixer still running on medium-high speed, carefully and slowly pour hot sugar mixture into the egg whites. Continue to whip the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until it is fully cooled and turns to a light, fluffy, glossy meringue. With the stand mixer still running on medium-high speed, add softened butter, one piece at a time, beating until the butter is fully incorporated and a light, fluffy, smooth frosting forms. If the frosting is too thin, cover and refrigerate until more firm. Finally, assemble the cake: Use a sharp knife to cut one end of the chilled cake on an angle a few inches from the end; arrange the cut piece on one side of the cake to form a “branch.” Slice off the very end of the branch for a clean edge, if desired. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the buttercream (you may not use all of the buttercream); use an offset spatula to texture the sides, as desired. Decorate and garnish the cake with marzipan mushrooms, Florentine lace cookies, cocoa powder, etc. as desired. Store cake loosely covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Tip: Don’t worry if your Peanut Butter Yule Log isn’t as smooth as you’d like—the snowy Italian buttercream frosting and decorations help cover any imperfections!
Biltmore® Grown Meatballs Recipe Posted on November 22, 2023 at 8:00 am.Written by Karina Hux Straight out of grandma’s recipe book, these classic meatballs are styled after a meal that Biltmore’s Estate Executive Chef Mark DeMarco’s grandmother and aunts made countless times during his childhood. For a tour de taste down memory lane, serve them with tomato sauce over your favorite pasta, or with fresh bread and creamy burrata cheese. Wine Pairing Suggestion: The boldness of our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Mourvédre pairs perfectly with the richness of this dish. This versatile recipe can be incorporated into many different dishes, including spaghetti, subs, and stroganoff. Biltmore® Grown Meatballs Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes Serving Size: 4-6 people Ingredients: 1½ pounds Biltmore® Grown Ground Beef 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 white onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons kosher salt 2 large eggs 1 cup parmesan cheese 2/3 cup panko bread crumbs ¼ cup chopped parsley 2 tablespoons dried oregano ½ teaspoon ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper Instructions: Preheat oven to 300°F. In a medium pan, sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft but not browned; season with salt. Remove from heat and let cool. Once cooled, mix onions and garlic with remaining ingredients and let sit for 10 minutes. Add ground beef and mix until well combined. Scoop meat mixture into ½-cup portions and roll between your hands to form smooth meatballs then place meatballs in a baking dish. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 155°F and serve immediately with your favorite pasta and sauce. For a meatball sub, place meatballs on toasted baguettes, top with pasta sauce and fresh mozzarella or fontina cheese.
Beef Brisket with Texas-Style BBQ Sauce Recipe Posted on November 8, 2023 at 8:00 am.Written by Karina Hux This is the ultimate cut for all of you pit masters out there! Start with our BBQ Dry Rub, then smoke the brisket and finish it “low and slow” in the oven. Top your delicious brisket sandwich or plate with our simple Texas-Style BBQ Sauce and enjoy with your favorite sides. Wine Pairing Suggestion: Beef brisket pairs beautifully with rich red wines like our Biltmore Estate® The Hunt Red Blend or Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Tempranillo. Peanut Butter Yule Log or “Buche de Noel” is a decadent dessert for the season–especially when paired with Biltmore Estate Riesling! Beef Brisket with Texas-Style BBQ Sauce Total time: 11 hours 30 minutes Serving Size: 4-6 people Ingredients: BBQ Dry Rub 3 pounds Biltmore® Grown Beef Brisket ½ cup paprika ¼ cup brown sugar ¼ cup chili powder ¼ cup kosher salt ¼ cup black pepper 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper 2 tablespoons ground cumin Texas-Style BBQ Sauce 4 tablespoons blended oil (such as olive or canola oil) 1 yellow onion, roughly chopped 8 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 16 ounces light brown sugar, packed 16 ounces apple cider vinegar 1 bottle (32 ounces) prepared ketchup 2 teaspoons smoked paprika 2 teaspoons mustard powder 2 teaspoons kosher salt 2 teaspoons ground black pepper Instructions: Texas-Style BBQ Sauce: sauté onions and garlic in blended oil over medium heat until soft. Add sugar and vinegar; cook until slightly reduced. Stir in ketchup and spices and simmer for 15 minutes. Blend until smooth and use immediately or refrigerate for up to 7 days. Smoked Brisket: Rub dry ingredients into brisket and smoke at 275°F for 2 hours. Roast uncovered at 300°F for 6 to 7 hours or until fork-tender. Rest for 30 minutes before slicing then top with BBQ sauce.
Visit Itinerary: The Magic of Christmas at Biltmore Posted on November 6, 2023 at 10:28 am.Written by Heather Angel With so many must-see and do activities during Christmas at Biltmore, you may be wondering how to make the most of your festive visit to the grand estate. This flexible Biltmore visit itinerary is designed to be easily tailored based on your reservation times and preferences, allowing you to choose between a dazzling Daytime visit or an elegant evening aglow with candlelit wonder with a Candlelight visit. Tip: Be sure to customize your visit itinerary based on Biltmore’s activities and events that will make your Christmas visit even more memorable! @madelynonthemove experiencing the magic of Christmas at Biltmore Option 1: Daytime Celebration Visit Itinerary 🎄 Morning Biltmore House Visit (1.5 to 2 hours): Step into the grandeur of Biltmore House, beautifully adorned with twinkling lights and festive decor. Explore the opulent rooms and immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas during a daytime visit with a complimentary audio guide. Tip: Advanced reservations are required for all Biltmore House visits. If your reservation is in the afternoon or early evening, you may choose to explore the Gardens or Antler Hill Village first! 🥗 Lunch at an Estate Restaurant (1.5 hours): Indulge in a delightful meal at one of Biltmore’s distinctive restaurants, including Stable Café, Cedric’s Tavern, Bistro, and Village Social. Tip: Reservations are highly recommended during this popular season. 🌺 Afternoon Gardens and Conservatory Visit (1 to 2 hours): Take a leisurely stroll through Biltmore’s historic gardens and Conservatory. Admire the meticulously maintained greenhouses filled with tropical plants and holiday displays. Tip: Select ticket types include free next-day access to explore the estate’s gardens and grounds. 🎟️ Chihuly at Biltmore exhibition (1.5 to 2 hours): Don’t miss your chance to see Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works before the exhibition ends on January 5, 2025. Experience the artist’s iconic creations, presented in an intimate gallery setting at Amherst at Deerpark®. Chihuly at Biltmore includes pedestal works, Drawings, and large-scale installations of Chandeliers, Towers, Mille Fiori, and Neon. Tip: Access is included with select ticket types and guests may visit at their reserved entry time selected during the purchase process. If your reserved entry time is in the morning, you may choose to have your reserved Biltmore House visit in the afternoon. 🥂 Evening Antler Hill Village & Winery Visit (2 hours): Linger under the twinkling lights in Antler Hill Village where holiday splendor and our award-winning winery await. Shop for unique holiday gifts, such as handcrafted ornaments or gourmet treats, and find the perfect souvenirs and stocking stuffers, at The Barn Door or at A Christmas Past in the Stable Shops. A selection of holiday gifts, decor, and treats can also be found on our online shop (relaunching Fall 2024). Learn about the Vanderbilt family and their life at home and abroad at The Biltmore Legacy. Tip: If you’re traveling with small children, be sure to visit Pisgah Playground, the Farmyard, and Antler Hill Barn for educational fun for all ages. Guests enjoy the Candlelight Christmas Evenings audio tour as they marvel at awe-inspiring décor in the Banquet Hall. Option 2: Candlelight Christmas Evenings 🎟️ Chihuly at Biltmore exhibition (1.5 to 2 hours): Don’t miss your chance to see Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works before the exhibition ends on January 5, 2025. Experience the artist’s iconic creations, presented in an intimate gallery setting at Amherst at Deerpark®. Chihuly at Biltmore includes pedestal works, Drawings, and large-scale installations of Chandeliers, Towers, Mille Fiori, and Mille Fiori, and Neon. Tip: Access is included with select ticket types and guests may visit at their reserved entry time selected during the purchase process. 🌺 Afternoon Gardens and Conservatory Visit (1 to 2 hours): Take a leisurely stroll through Biltmore’s historic gardens and Conservatory. Admire the meticulously maintained greenhouses filled with tropical plants and holiday displays. Tip: Candlelight Christmas Evenings admission includes same-day or next-day access to explore the gardens, grounds, and Winery. See our FAQs for more info. 🕯️ Candlelight Christmas Evenings Biltmore House Visit (1.5 to 2 hours): Experience the epitome of yuletide magic with Candlelight Christmas Evenings in Biltmore House. Wander through historic rooms aglow with the soft light of lit fireplaces, marvel at the beautiful decor, and enjoy live holiday music echoing through the halls. Tip: Advanced reservations are required for all Biltmore House visits. If your reservation is in the late evening, you may choose to explore the Gardens or Antler Hill Village first! 🥂 Evening Antler Hill Village & Winery Visit (2 hours): Linger under the twinkling lights in Antler Hill Village where holiday splendor and our award-winning winery await. Shop for unique holiday gifts, such as handcrafted ornaments or gourmet treats, and find the perfect souvenirs and stocking stuffers, at The Barn Door or at A Christmas Past in the Stable Shops. A selection of holiday gifts, decor, and treats can also be found on our online shop (relaunching Fall 2024). Learn about the Vanderbilt family and their life at home and abroad at The Biltmore Legacy. Tip: If you’re traveling with small children, be sure to visit Pisgah Playground, the Farmyard, and Antler Hill Barn for educational fun for all ages. Guests enjoy visits with Santa at the Bandstand in Antler Hill Village on select dates during Christmas at Biltmore! Option 3: FREE Next-Day Grounds Access Christmas at Biltmore is magical, and the fun doesn’t have to end after your first day. Take advantage of FREE next-day grounds access to revisit Antler Hill Village and explore our 22 miles of private nature trails and historic gardens. Enrich your visit with guided activities, such as horse-drawn carriage rides, falconry, bird-watching, or a rejuvenating guided yoga and meditation class—perfect for recharging after a wonder-filled getaway. Tip: New this winter season, all Biltmore House admission tickets include FREE next-day grounds access, which means you have even more time to explore all that the estate has to offer! Additional Visit-Planning Tips: Below are a few additional tips for your Christmas at Biltmore visit itinerary. For even more helpful information, we recommend exploring our Visitor Information site section. Plan Ahead: Don’t wait to purchase your Christmas at Biltmore tickets or special overnight packages to secure your preferred dates and times for this beloved season. Make the Most of Your Experience: All Biltmore admission types include access to explore Antler Hill Village & Winery and our historic gardens and grounds. Explore ticket types that include access to Biltmore House, an exclusive 90-minute guided tour, our immersive art exhibition, free next-day grounds access, and more! Additional add-on experiences, such as guided outdoor activities, are available as well. Make it a Getaway: With so much to experience during the holiday season, treat yourself and your loved ones to a festive and memorable getaway with an overnight stay on Biltmore Estate. Getting Around the Estate: Many guests underestimate the vast size of Biltmore Estate. We recommend allowing your party at least 30 minutes for travel and parking between estate locations. For helpful guidance on estate accessibility, please explore our Help Center. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers appropriate for the season and the types of activities you plan to do during your visit, especially if you opt to participate in any outdoor adventure activities. Watch the Weather: The weather in our region can change quickly, which may result in unexpected temporary closures of our trails or outdoor activities during severe weather. We appreciate your understanding! Capture Holiday Memories: Biltmore’s beautifully decorated spaces, elegant evergreens, and visits with Santa in Antler Hill Village provide the perfect backdrop for memorable holiday photos and magical moments with your family. Reminder: Be sure to follow estate photo and video policies designed to ensure all guests have an enjoyable experience. Start Your Christmas Shopping: Find unique gifts and stocking stuffers, holiday decorations, and gourmet treats to bring the Biltmore Christmas spirit home during your visit at any of our estate shops. Find More Tips: For even more guidance on what activities you might want to consider during your Biltmore visit for family fun, outdoor adventure, or food and wine, be sure to check our Itineraries page. Ready to experience the magic of Christmas at Biltmore? Reserve your visit.
Apple Tarte Tatin Recipe Posted on November 4, 2023 at 8:00 am.Written by Karina Hux Simple and versatile—just the way we like it! Add a touch of elegance to your next gathering with this Tarte Tatin recipe from the minds of our creative chefs at The Dining Room at The Inn on Biltmore Estate®. Wine Pairing Suggestion: Pair with a glass of Biltmore Estate® Riesling, or for festive occasions, a Biltmore Estate® Brut Sparkling. Celebrate fall harvest season and holiday gatherings with this classic French-style apple tarte. Apple Tarte Tatin Recipe Total time: roughly 2 hours Serving Size: 6-8 people Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter 1 cup sugar 12-14 green apples, peeled 2 tablespoons additional butter, softened 1 sheet Puff Pastry (store-bought) 1 egg, beaten with a touch of water Optional Toppings: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving Thinly sliced ripe figs arranged in the center when serving Cranberry sauce or relish Jam Instructions: Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Blend the 4 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of sugar in a 9-inch oven-safe skillet andcook over medium heat until thick, syrupy, and golden brown. Slice the peeled apples in thin wedges and arrange them on top of the butter-sugarmixture in layers. Dot each layer with softened butter and sprinkle with a little bitof sugar. Build the apple slices up in the center to come above the rim of the pan. Roll out the puff pastry to 1/8 inch thick, and cover the pan with the pastry. Brush thepastry with the egg. Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375 degrees and continue bakinguntil the apples are soft and the pastry is golden brown. Let tarte cool slightly about 10 minutes and then carefully invert it onto a servingplate. The apples should have caramelized with the sugar-butter mixture, makinga delicate brown top for the tarte. Serve warm with optional toppings. A first-look for Biltmore Annual Passholders This recipe was originally shared with Biltmore’s Annual Passholders in the Fall/Holiday 2024 issue of Ambassador, our exclusive Passholder magazine. Join our Passholder family to get insider access and exclusive benefits—like unlimited daytime visits for a full year!
Before Biltmore Estate: Earliest Inhabitants Posted on November 3, 2023 at 11:22 am.Written by Heather Angel The 8,000 acres of present-day Biltmore Estate have a rich history of inhabitants dating back millennia. In this two-part blog series, we recognize and share a brief history of some of the many people who have called this land home throughout history. Modern-day viewshed of Biltmore Estate Early Native American Roots George W. Vanderbilt chose to build his home at this site because of the spectacular mountain views and mild climate. Before his time, there were other reasons why people found this location desirable. Due to the confluence of the French Broad and Swannanoa Rivers, groups have settled here for almost 10,000 years. There were also two major trade routes that passed through this region, making it a much-used area for people from near and far. Modern archaeological investigations on Biltmore Estate show evidence of significant Native American occupations. They span many years, dating from the Early Archaic period (ca. 8000 BCE) to the late Pisgah phase (ca. 1500 CE) of the Mississippian period. One of the most significant Native American sites on the estate is known as the “Biltmore Mound and Village Site.” This earthen mound dates to the Connestee phase of the Middle Woodland period (ca. 200–600 CE), or around 1,400–1,800 years ago. Archaeological evidence suggests that the mound, which has been reduced from several hundred years of plowing, served as the substructure for a series of wooden town or council houses. These buildings were used as the civic and ceremonial centers of the surrounding village and the wider Native American settlements in the area. 1884 Royce, C. C. Map of the former territorial limits of the Cherokee “Nation of” Indians from the collection of the Library of Congress, Geography and Map division. Forced Removal of the Cherokee By the time European settlers began arriving in this region in the late 18th century, this land was officially recognized as Cherokee territory. After the Revolutionary War, pressure on Native populations increased. The Cherokee Nation ceded much of the land that nearly 100 years later would make up Vanderbilt’s 125,000-acre estate to the United States government in the Treaty of Holston and the First Treaty of Tellico in the 1790s. These land cessions were made through coercion and encroachment and rarely represented the wishes of the Cherokee people as a whole. The Indian Removal Act of 1830 granted the government the power to relocate tribes to land west of the Mississippi. Five years later, some members of the Cherokee signed the Treaty of New Echota, which paid them $5 million to leave their ancestral lands in the Southeast. The forced migration to the new Indian Territory in what is now Oklahoma in 1838 and 1839 became known as the Trail of Tears. The few who persevered to remain here or return later are the ancestors of the present-day Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI). This tribe now mainly calls the Qualla Boundary their home, located about 40 miles west of Biltmore. In 1890, when Biltmore House was under construction, an Extra Census Bulletin from the U. S. Census Office totaled the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina at 1,520 members. Despite their proximity, there seems to have been little interaction between George Vanderbilt or the estate and the EBCI. One exception is the sale of timber by a group of Cherokees to Carl Schenck during his time as Biltmore’s forester. There are also a few known early employees documented as claiming Cherokee ancestry. This photo taken February 25, 1893, shows progress on Biltmore House and the Walled Garden. The new structures contrast with the residence of the Wright family in the foreground, which was purchased by Vanderbilt in June 1888. Remembering Biltmore’s Residents While many people are familiar with the lives of George and Edith Vanderbilt, it is vital to Biltmore’s cultural history to acknowledge the many individuals who came before the Vanderbilts and who lived and worked on this land since their arrival, including thousands of tenants and employees. While there are many oral histories in Biltmore’s archives that speak to the experience of growing up on these grounds in the 20th century, the stories of most of those who came before have unfortunately been lost to time. In lieu of more detailed or personal accounts of individuals and communities who once lived on this land, it is essential that we acknowledge their existence as a way to honor and remember their lives and legacies. Through environmental stewardship practices, land conservation efforts, and collaborative research projects, Biltmore remains dedicated to being good stewards of this storied land that has been home to so many, including Native Americans, the African American Shiloh community, and all descendants of the people who came before us. Further Reading: For information on the transition of land ownership leading up to George Vanderbilt, read part two of this blog series, “Before Biltmore Estate: Changing Ownership.” Additional resources on this topic: As Long as the Grass Shall Grow: A history of Cherokee land cessions and the formation of Buncombe County, by the Buncombe County Register of Deeds The Trail of Tears: A Story of Cherokee Removal by Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian National Park Service Trail of Tears map and guide.
Braised Short Ribs with Gingered Sweet Potato Mash & Cherry Barbeque Sauce Recipe Posted on November 1, 2023 at 1:00 pm.Written by Heather Angel Perfect for chasing the chill in the air, this hearty, multi-layered entrée comes from The Dining Room at The Inn on Biltmore Estate. Wine Pairing Suggestion: We suggest pairing it with The Hunt Sonoma County Red Blend 2020. Peanut Butter Yule Log or “Buche de Noel” is a decadent dessert for the season–especially when paired with Biltmore Estate Riesling! Braised Short Ribs with Gingered Sweet Potato Mash and Cherry Barbeque Sauce Total time: 4 hours Serving Size: 4 people Ingredients: 6 pounds (4 pieces) Biltmore® Grown beef short ribs 2 tablespoons vegetable oil ½ pound carrots, peeled and chopped ½ pound celery, chopped ½ pound white onions, peeled and chopped 2 quarts beef stock 2 ounces fresh thyme Cherry Barbecue Sauce 1 tablespoon molasses 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar ½ cup dried sweet cherries Salt and pepper to taste Sweet Potato Mash 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced ½ cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons butter ¼ cup honey Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: Preheat oven to 275 degrees. Season shortribs with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large heavy pan. Brown short ribs on all sides, remove. Add carrots, celery, and onion to a hot pan; cook until just brown. Return short ribs to the pan along with thyme and beef stock. Cover pan, and place in hot oven. Braise for 3 hours, or until meat is extremely tender and falls away from the bone. Remove meat to a covered platter, and keep warm. Strain and reserve cooking liquid. In a medium saucepan, bring the reserved cooking liquid to a simmer. Reduce until halved in volume. Stir in molasses, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, and dried cherries. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Bring heavy cream and butter to a simmer. Bring to boil a large pot of salted water. Add diced sweet potatoes. Cook until sweet potatoes are tender. Drain. Run cooked potatoes through a food mill or ricer. Stir in warmed cream and butter along with minced ginger and honey. Season to taste with salt and pepper. To serve: Divide sweet potatoes between 4 plates. Place one short rib atop each portion of sweet potatoes. Sauce the beef with the cherry barbeque.
Pumpkin Spice Sangria Recipe Posted on November 1, 2023 at 8:00 am.Written by Karina Hux Fall in love with this ‘not-so-basic’ Pumpkin Spice Sangria that’s just as cozy as your favorite sweater. This refreshing blend combines the crispness of autumn fruit with an unexpected punch of pumpkin spice. Whether you’re serving it in a wine glass or out of a punch bowl, it’s the ideal way to add some spice to your fall festivities. Purchase our award-winning wines in estate shops, online, or find a Biltmore wine retailer near you. Biltmore Estate Chardonnay is the star of this cozy fall sangria. Pumpkin Spice Sangria Total time: 5 minutes Serving Size: 1 gallon Ingredients: ¾ cup granulated sugar 11 ounces pineapple juice 11 ounces apple juice 4 ounces pumpkin syrup 3 bottles Biltmore Estate Chardonnay 10 ounces club soda 3 granny smith apples 5-6 cinnamon sticks Instructions: Pour the sugar and pineapple juice into a small saucepot. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves completely. Transfer the mixture to a punch bowl. Add the apple juice, pumpkin syrup, and Biltmore Estate Chardonnay to the bowl. Stir to combine. Slice or chop the apples (according to your preference) and add them to the sangria, along with several cinnamon sticks. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Just before serving, stir in the club soda. Serve and enjoy!
5 Biltmore-Inspired Tips for Eco-Friendly Christmas Décor Posted on October 25, 2023 at 12:36 pm.Written by Heather Angel Environmental stewardship is a critical part of Biltmore’s mission that dates back to George Vanderbilt’s original vision for his country retreat in the mountains of North Carolina. This extends to the actions that our teams take over a century later as they deck the halls of America’s Largest Home® with twinkling lights and festive decorations each year for Christmas at Biltmore. Let’s explore a few Biltmore-inspired, eco-friendly Christmas decor tips for decking your halls for the holidays. Each year, over 60 trees are decorated around Biltmore Estate, including a cut 14-foot tree displayed in the lobby of The Inn. Choose Natural and Low-Impact Christmas Trees According to experts like The Nature Conservancy, natural-cut Christmas trees are a responsible décor option when farmed sustainably. Biltmore has been sourcing our famous Banquet Hall Christmas tree, front lawn trees, and many other cut trees placed around the estate from a family-owned farm, Andrews Nursery in nearby Newland, North Carolina, for over 40 years. When your cut Christmas tree is ready to be taken down, don’t add it to the landfill! Instead, natural trees can be chipped into mulch for garden beds like we do on Biltmore Estate, composted, donated to local organizations, or even placed outside in wooded areas to serve as a natural habitat for small birds during winter months. Alternatively, you may also consider choosing a potted tree that can be replanted after the holidays or even explore the option of renting a living tree. For those who prefer artificial trees, opt for high-quality models that can be reused for many years. Christmas “pomanders” are a classic Christmas decoration made of clove-studded oranges. Embrace Nature’s Bounty Bring the beauty of nature indoors by incorporating natural elements into your eco-friendly Christmas decor. Clove-studded oranges, like shown here in the Servant’s Dining Hall of Biltmore House in years past, are a classic Christmas decoration that brings a sense of warmth and a lovely scent to your holiday décor. Gather fallen pinecones, twigs, dried flowers, and branches to create unique centerpieces, wreaths, or garlands. Not only will these decorations add a touch of rustic charm, but they will also offer a sustainable alternative to store-bought decorations. Biltmore’s Floral designers begin planning for Christmas almost a full year in advance! Repurpose and Upcycle Each year, Biltmore’s Floral team repurposes thousands of ornaments, ribbons, and other decorative items for adorning our historic estate for the holidays. Before heading out to buy new ornaments, take a look at what you already have. You might be surprised at how many old ornaments, ribbons, and decorations can be repurposed or upcycled into something new. Get creative by transforming old Christmas cards into gift tags, using scraps of fabric to make unique tree ornaments, or upcycling your Biltmore Wine corks into adorable DIY wine cork reindeer! Antler Hill Village illuminates after dusk with the festive glow of thousands of twinkling LED lights. Choose Energy-Efficient Lighting Instead of traditional incandescent lights, opt for energy-efficient LED lights like we use around Biltmore Estate, including inside Biltmore House, at the Winery, and around Antler Hill Village! LED bulbs consume significantly less electricity and have a longer lifespan, saving you money on your energy bill while reducing your carbon footprint. Remember to turn off the lights when not in use and consider investing in a timer to avoid unnecessary energy consumption at nighttime. Simple evergreen clippings and leftover ribbon pieces can help elevate your wine gift-giving this holiday season. Be Mindful of Packaging The holiday season often brings an abundance of packaging waste. When buying new decorations, gifts, and wrapping papers, opt for items with minimal packaging or items made from recycled and sustainably sourced materials. Additionally, try to reuse or recycle any packaging you receive, reducing your contribution to the waste stream. For additional guidance on gifting, check out our tips for creative ways to wrap wine bottles for gift-giving! By making small changes to embrace eco-friendly Christmas decor practices, we can all do our part to create a festive atmosphere that brings joy to our homes while being good stewards of our natural resources.