Entertaining Tips
Now's the time for backyard cookouts and fun gatherings. Bring the folks close to you together this summer with these entertaining tips.
Top 3 Biltmore Burgers
Summer Cookout Menu
Surprise your cookout guests with these knockout burgers, served up with some delicious sides, homemade ice cream, and two perfect wine sangrias.
First our Stable Café chefs share their favorite burger concoctions. From the ultra-savory (caramelized onions, blue cheese, and bacon) to the downright juicy (barbeque sauce, cheddar cheese, and spicy thin onion rings), to a new twist on the tried and true Swiss Mushroom (think porcini and shitake), you'll find the right style for your guests.
Next comes two sangria recipes that have been tested and served at our estate restaurants: the Inn on Biltmore Estate's Red Wine Sangria and the Biltmore Winery's White Wine Sangria.
Round it all out with delicious sides, including warm potato salad and tomato and buffalo mozzarella platter. Then, send your guests home happy after several servings of homemade orange-infused vanilla ice cream.
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Biltmore Wines Provide Great Summer Sipping
During warmer months, winemaker Bernard Delille recommends focusing on lighter, dryer, acidic wines. These wines refresh your palette in the same way lemonade does when you are hot and thirsty.
"Sweeter wines tend to leave you thirsty, while wines with higher acidity such as Sauvignon Blanc can actually quench your thirst on a hot summer day," he said.
Bernard's top summer picks include his favorite varietal, Sauvignon Blanc, a dry, crisp, food-friendly wine that pairs beautifully with salads, chicken, and white fish. He also recommends Biltmore Pinot Grigio; its spicy citrus finish is perfect all by itself—especially nice for sipping outdoors on summer evenings. Prefer popular Chardonnay? Try a lighter style like Biltmore Chardonnay Sur Lies that is lightly oak aged.
Rosé drinkers will appreciate Century Rosé, an off-dry rosé blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. This is a great option that pairs well with a wide range of foods.
For diehard red wine lovers, Bernard recommends a mellow, versatile red for the summer; one of the best is Cardinal's Crest—a soft and easy-to-drink blend.
Like something bubbly? Sparkling wines like our Pas de Deux crafted with aromatic Muscat Canelli grapes are perfect for warm weather.
Whatever wine you prefer, make sure you chill it first (yes, even red wine). Cool reds for 20–30 minutes before you serve them. For white wines, remove from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes prior to serving so their aromas and flavors can be released.
And remember the most important rule of wine: drink what you like, regardless of the time of year!
Sparkling Wine Tips
Take tips from our winemakers on using sparkling wines to make every occasion special.
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Host Your Own Wine Tasting
Turn your next get together into a wine tasting—it's easier than you think and lots of fun. Click here for full details.