Discovery of Edith Vanderbilt’s Christmas Gifts Ledger Posted on December 3, 2024 at 9:00 am.Written by Heather Angel “New Discoveries” is a standing agenda item during our Museum Services team’s monthly meeting. Rarely does a month go by without someone bringing something new to the meeting. And when it’s something that provides the answer to a long lingering assumption, “it’s like Christmas morning,” says Lauren Henry, Biltmore’s Curator of Interpretation. Christmas morning came in the spring of 2024 when Jill Hawkins and Caragh Koon, archivists on the team, presented a new finding at the April meeting. The find? Edith Vanderbilt’s century-old Christmas Gifts Ledger. Edith Vanderbilt’s legendary generosity during the holidays was exemplified by her thoughtful gift-giving to employees and their families. A Legacy of Generosity: Edith’s Holiday Spirit The stories about Edith’s generosity are legendary, especially during the holidays. She gave back to the community and showed her appreciation for her employees by selecting gifts for them and each of their children and giving out the gifts at the annual grand employee Christmas party, which is a tradition we continue to this day. We’ve known that Edith kept notes on the gifts she gave to each person from year to year to avoid duplications, but it wasn’t until this discovery of this gifts ledger that we have tangible proof that she indeed kept meticulous track. This historical treasure also reveals in charming detail more information about the gifts and their recipients. “It’s exciting to see the specificity of the gifts, and that every member of the household (for those living on-property) received a gift, not just the employees and their children, but also what appears to be employees’ parents and maybe even in some cases their servants,” Lauren says. More than 600 names are listed in Edith’s gifts ledger, which covers roughly the years 1909 to 1930. Many of the names are familiar to Lauren and the team since their work puts them in consistent contact with the estate’s vast collection of archival material. Despite its unassuming appearance, the well-worn Christmas gifts ledger, discovered among other accounting books, serves as a vital historical record showcasing Edith’s meticulous administrative skills. Exploring Edith’s Historical Record The Christmas ledger is typical-looking for its time and rather unassuming, yet between its covers exists an important historical record. The 12”x18” volume is covered in oxblood-colored leather binding, is slightly tattered, and missing a spine. Given its well-worn condition, it was surely a go-to source for Edith and her staff. Jill and Caragh happened to find it during an inventory project, blending in with other ledgers that served as cash books, accounts receivable records, and other accounting notes. Edith’s administrative skills are demonstrated throughout. Interior pages look like precursors to Excel spreadsheets, each distinguished by bookkeeping columns filled with beautiful, swirly cursive handwriting. Lauren has confirmed that there are two sets of handwriting in the ledger – neither of which are Edith’s, but that of her secretaries. At the top of the first page, in the right-hand corner, “ESV” is written in pencil, Edith’s initials – in Edith’s handwriting. The gifts ledger reveals a detailed account of recipients, tracking their ages and presents over the years, illustrating Edith’s deep understanding of the families she supported. Growing Up in the Gifts Ledger Down the left-hand column of each page is a list of names. To the right a column notates the person’s age, the year, and what gift they were given. As you move across the page to the right, you can track what that person received for several years in a row. Often, names are organized by family, with the parents’ names and ages first, then all the children and their ages listed below them. “It’s great to see in the ledger who those items went to… How those things changed as they grew up,” Lauren says. “You see a baby getting something like soap or diapers, or a toy or ball, and as they get older, they might get a hand mirror, perfume, makeup, a money safe. Here’s one for a boy named Neil. He was 7 months old, and he got socks, and then sandals, then a toy car, and then a ball at 3 years old.” Edith often gave clothing or practical household items, like an umbrella or a bookcase, to the adults on her list. One year a family received a set of books by Charles Dickens. “This helped her get to know the families better, by knowing how old they were and the kinds of things they liked,” Lauren says. It’s also a priceless record of Edith’s fondness for her employees and her attention to detail. Edith’s gifts ledger documentation extends beyond presents to include employee addresses and occupations, offering a comprehensive view of life on the estate and humanizing the Vanderbilts and their staff. Employee Details in Edith’s Documentation Edith’s documentation also includes employee addresses, their occupations, and in some cases, the data is indexed based on the department in which employees worked, like Landscaping. “This is one of the most complete documents we have for employees in this time period,” Lauren says. “It also further humanizes the Vanderbilts and the people who worked and lived on the estate.” Details from Edith’s ledger provide the team with fresh and new insights into the era and support their ongoing research to understand what life was like during the time when the Vanderbilts lived in Biltmore House. “We have the pleasure to make discoveries like this because we have such a huge archive – over 100 years’ worth. It’s fun for us to realize what we have here right under our noses,” Lauren says. A towering Banquet Hall Christmas tree is one of the many traditions spanning generations that you can experience for yourself with a Christmas visit. Experience Biltmore’s Christmas Traditions for Yourself This recent discovery of Edith’s Christmas gifts ledger not only sheds light on her generosity and excellent bookkeeping but also helps connect us all to Biltmore’s thoughtful holiday traditions that span generations. From the grand Banquet Hall tree to estate-wide decor and celebrations, we invite you to experience our beloved traditions when you visit this Christmas at Biltmore.
Apple Tarte Tatin Recipe Posted on November 14, 2024 at 2:00 pm.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!
Celebrate the Season with Biltmore Christmas Wines Posted on November 12, 2024 at 11:58 am.Written by Jean Sexton For the 2024 holiday season, Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines are available at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, in our online store, and in many local retail and grocery stores in the Southeast. Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines For 2024, our Christmas at Biltmore wine labels feature an exterior view of Biltmore House and the facade of the Conservatory in the Walled Garden. “The release of our annual Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines marks the start of the holiday season, and we welcome you to taste them at the Winery during our Christmas at Biltmore celebration,” said Sharon Fenchak, Executive Winemaker. Local artist creates our Christmas labels Asheville artist Olga Dorenko created original artwork for our Christmas at Biltmore wines. In one of our favorite time-honored traditions, we selected a local artist to create original designs for the label of each Christmas at Biltmore wine. Olga Dorenko of Asheville, NC, was asked to capture two different aspects of Biltmore’s beauty during the Christmas season. For the Christmas at Biltmore Red Wine, she showcased the iconic exterior of Biltmore House with decorated Christmas trees on the Front Lawn and a swirl of bright leaves framing the scene. Olga’s vivid artwork work showcases her emphasis on color and nature. The Conservatory graces the label of this year’s Christmas at Biltmore White Wine. Olga caught it just at sunset when the last of the light casts a rosy glow over the grand, glass-topped structure in the Walled Garden. “My paintings, inspired by local, national, and international landscapes, highlight color and light,” said Olga. “I have always had a deep appreciation for color.” Olga at work in her studio. During her time as a classical art student, Olga noted that she spent a considerable amount of time mixing and blending colors. This longstanding and intense relationship with color in her artistic training is displayed in her current work, including the two Christmas at Biltmore wine labels “Through my use of color, I can lend a contemporary interpretation to my otherwise realistic landscapes,” said Olga. Pour on the cheer with Biltmore wines! Savor this year’s Christmas at Biltmore Red and White wines with your favorite holiday flavors! Whether you’re in the mood for a fragrant, semi-sweet blended white wine or a soft, fruit-forward red blend, 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 anyone on your gift list. Savor our Christmas at Biltmore wines with a complimentary tasting at the Winery and purchase them in estate shops. You’ll also find our Christmas wines—and all your other handcrafted favorites—online at shop.biltmore.com or in select local retailers.
Visit Itinerary: The Magic of Christmas at Biltmore Posted on October 25, 2024 at 10:00 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. Be sure to customize your visit itinerary based on Biltmore’s activities and events that will make your Christmas visit even more memorable! Thanks to the incredible work of so many generous people, recovery is happening all around us. Biltmore reopened on November 2 to celebrate the joy of the holiday season with you during Christmas at Biltmore. Find helpful visit planning info, like FAQs, travel access to Asheville, and more on our Know Before You Go page. @madelynonthemove experiencing the magic of Christmas at Biltmore Option 1: Daytime Celebration Visit Itinerary 🌺 Early 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. 🎄 Afternoon 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 late afternoon or early evening, you may choose to explore the Gardens or Antler Hill Village first! 🥗 Grab a Snack at an Estate Restaurant (1.5 hours): Indulge in a delightful meal or grab-and-go snack from one of Biltmore’s distinctive restaurants, including Stable Café, Cedric’s Tavern, Bistro, and Village Social. Tip: Reservations for dining are highly recommended during this popular season. Be sure to check online for current hours of operation. 🎟️ Late Afternoon Chihuly at Biltmore Exhibition Visit(1.5 to 2 hours): Don’t miss your chance to see Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works before the exhibition ends on February 2, 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. 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 🎟️ Afternoon Chihuly at Biltmore Exhibition Visit (1.5 to 2 hours): Don’t miss your chance to see Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works before the exhibition ends on February 2, 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. 🌺 Late 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 free 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. 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! 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. Before arriving, be sure to review helpful visit information and check current hours for estate offerings. 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. Explore Today AND Tomorrow: Select 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! 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 to 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.
This Year’s Christmas Décor by the Numbers Posted on October 22, 2024 at 5:49 pm.Written by Heather Angel Christmas at Biltmore in Asheville, NC, has provided generations of guests, their families, and friends with an awe-inspiring getaway filled with heartwarming traditions, comfort, and joy, the memories of which last a lifetime. Let’s take a look at just how much Christmas décor it takes to bedeck George Vanderbilt’s 8,000-acre estate for this beloved season. Thanks to the incredible work of so many generous people, recovery is happening all around us. Biltmore reopened on November 2 to celebrate the joy of the holiday season with you during Christmas at Biltmore. Find helpful visit planning info, like FAQs, travel access to Asheville, and more on our Know Before You Go page. This year’s 35-foot tall Fraser Fir from Newland, NC, stands tall in the Banquet Hall of Biltmore House and ready to welcome guests back to Biltmore. In the past, the Floral team has based their designs around a central theme that carries through Biltmore House and across the estate. For 2024, our designers have allowed each room to speak to them, drawing inspiration from its colors, furnishings, and collection of fine art and objects. “We always take the elements of each space into consideration and this year, we’re giving a fresh voice to what makes individual areas of Biltmore House so distinctive,” said Lizzie Whitcher, Floral Manager. Boughs of holly await their placement throughout the Library of Biltmore House for this year’s display. Christmas Trees There will be 58 decorated Christmas trees inside Biltmore House. The largest tree inside Biltmore House is, of course, the Vanderbilt traditional fresh 35-foot-tall Fraser fir in the Banquet Hall. It requires about 50 staff members to carry in, raise, and secure it. The smallest ones are a grouping of three tabletop trees in Servant’s Bedrooms. A lit 55-foot-tall Norway spruce encircled by 36 illuminated evergreens decorates the Front Lawn of Biltmore House for Candlelight Christmas Evenings. A total of 45 additional decorated Christmas trees are at other estate locations, including our Winery, Antler Hill Village, and The Inn on Biltmore Estate®. The Conservatory features decorated “trees” made of potted plants and other natural materials. A behind-the-scenes look as floral designer decorate this year’s Second Floor Living Hall trees. Christmas Lights & Candles There are around 45,000 lights and 282 candles inside Biltmore House. Another 850,000 lights illuminate the rest of the estate. More than 55,000 lights illuminate the Front Lawn tree with an additional 32,000 lights on the surrounding trees and shrubs. Uplighting illuminates the poplar trees lining the lawn. Hand-lit at dusk, 400 luminaries line the Esplanade in front of Biltmore House every night for Candlelight Christmas Evenings. The illumination of Antler Hill Village features thousands upon thousands of lights, including a pole tree near the entrance that plays a continuous show of synchronized lights and music and large Moravian-style stars that lend a magical touch to the Christmas décor. A close-up look at some of the elegant ornaments that will adorn the Billiard Room this year, which draw inspiration from the prints displayed throughout the room. Christmas Ornaments The Banquet Hall tree boasts 500 ornaments and 500 LED Edison bulb-style electric lights along with an abundance of gift boxes and other décor. There are 13,870 ornaments used on the other trees inside Biltmore House, and many again around the estate to add sparkle and seasonal interest. Festive garland and lights placed upon Biltmore’s historic Lodge Gate will welcome guests to Christmas at Biltmore once again. Garlands & Swags Our Floral team cuts fresh evergreens on the property every week to create handmade swags to decorate the Grand Staircase in Biltmore House. Around 1,600 feet of fresh and faux garlands decorate Biltmore House, and around 1,200 feet are used in other areas. One of our floral designers drapes velvet ribbon on one of the 58 trees to be displayed this year inside Biltmore House. Ribbons & Bows There are 9,510 yards of ribbon in the Christmas décor in Biltmore House and throughout the estate—primarily in the form of hand-tied bows. Our team uses everything from narrow cording to 8-inch-wide ribbon and they decorate with velvets, metallics, satins, burlap, and printed cottons. It takes 5 yards of ribbon to create the festive bows worn by the marble lions at the front door of Biltmore House. It takes close to 15 yards of ribbon required to make a tree-topper bow for the 16-foot-tall Christmas trees in the Library. Any ribbon that is used year to year is starched and ironed so that it is wrinkle-free and perfect! It takes approximately 50 employees carry the tree into Biltmore House and hoist it into place. Staff Transforming Biltmore Estate into a holiday oasis bedecked with awe-inspiring Christmas decor requires meticulous research, creative inspiration, 12 months of preparation, and harmonious teamwork around the entire estate. It takes about 50 team members to raise and secure the Banquet Hall’s Fraser fir Christmas tree. Our Floral team consists of 10 full-time and 7 part-time floral designers. Multiple departments across the estate also help implement the grand plans for Christmas décor at Biltmore each year, including our Engineering, Housekeeping, Museum Services, Horticulture, Guest Services, Security, and Events teams. All of the wreaths on display in Biltmore House and throughout the estate–like this one adorning the Conservatory last year–are handmade by our Floral team. Wreaths There are 238 fresh wreaths and sprays along with 90 faux pieces around the estate during the season. Wreaths are made of fresh white pine and Fraser fir, ornamented with golden arborvitae, holly, or other natural materials such as twigs and cones. Artificial bases are decorated with ornaments, berries, faux flowers, and ribbons. Be sure to look for festive Christmas decor in Biltmore’s historic Conservatory during Christmas! Poinsettias & Other Botanical Décor More than 1,960 traditional poinsettias are found amid the Christmas décor throughout the estate, 271 of which are in Biltmore House. Additional seasonal plants include 4,265 amaryllises, Christmas cacti, bromeliads, orchids, peace lilies, cyclamen, begonias, and kalanchoes. Keeping with our tradition, our Banquet Hall tree is trimmed with 500 gift boxes, 500 ornaments, and 500 LED Edison bulb-style electric lights. Bonus notable “numbers” for our 2024 celebrations This year marks a special milestone in Biltmore’s history with the 40th anniversary of our beloved Candlelight Christmas Evenings celebrations. This year also marks 129 years since George Vanderbilt first opened his home to friends and family in 1895. Earlier this year, our Museum Services team made 1 new Christmas discovery in our archives, a historic ledger of gifts for employees and their families from Edith Vanderbilt. Biltmore’s winery crafted 3 special Christmas at Biltmore wines, a red, wine, and a sparkling. We extend a warm welcome to you and your loved ones to experience the beauty, grandeur, and traditions this Christmas at Biltmore. From Biltmore House and the Conservatory to the Winery, our overnight accommodations, estate shops, dining, and festive lights throughout Antler Hill Village, there is something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season!
Halloween How-to: Pairing Biltmore Wine with Candy Posted on October 10, 2024 at 10:34 am.Written by Jean Sexton There’s nothing scary about enjoying Biltmore wines with your favorite sweets! Take spooky-season fun to the next level with our special Halloween how-to on pairing Biltmore wine with classic candy at home. The same principles that apply to successful food-and-wine pairings also work with candy. For desserts, you’d normally choose a wine that’s sweeter than the dish you’re serving, but this Halloween how-to focuses on pairings that add a little sophistication and a lot of fun to the mix. Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Dry Riesling pairs perfectly with tri-colored candy corn Complement candy corn For those who love the seasonal stripes and sugary sweetness of old-fashioned candy corn, it’s twice as nice with a glass of Biltmore Estate® Riesling. Our Riesling features sweet apricot aromas, light honey flavors, and a crisp finish that provides a pleasant balance for the pure sweetness and soft, waxy texture of candy corn. For a special Halloween treat, savor smooth, creamy peanut butter cups with our approachable Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay Peanut butter perfection If your Halloween traditions include snagging all the chocolate-covered peanut butter cups out of the treat bags to savor later, we suggest you consider complementing the dynamic duo with our approachable Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay. This is a pairing that surprises people, because you don’t normally pair peanut butter with wine. But if you think about it, what’s more perfect with peanut butter than grape jelly, which gives you a point of reference. Our Chardonnay also works well because it’s a delightfully smooth wine with fruit flavors and hints of oak that enhance most food flavors. It’s also crisp and offers good acidity to balance the higher fat content and rich mouthfeel of peanut butter. Savor the dark side by pairing Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Mourvédre with peppermint patties Savor the dark side While chocolate is frequently served with red wine, the combination of dark chocolate and a strong mint filling makes pairing classic peppermint patties a bit of a challenge, but we say it’s okay to savor the dark side with our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Mourvédre. This wine offers wonderful aromas of black cherry, vanilla, and soft oak that carry through to the palate with flavors of chocolate, blueberry, vanilla, subtle hints of cedar, and soft tannins. It has a kind of rustic elegance that complements the sophisticated notes of dark chocolate and peppermint. Create a sweet-and-sour surprise by pairing Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc with sour gummy candy! Sweet-and-sour surprise This is another surprising pairing, mostly because nobody thinks about trying sweet-and-sour Halloween candy with wine—especially an elegant white varietal like Sauvignon Blanc! The pairing works on two levels, beginning with the bright citrus aromas of Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc that complement the playful scent of the candy. Smell them separately and you’ll start to understand how they can work together. The Sauvignon Blanc is crisp, with refreshing flavors of peach and a touch of minerality that keeps the candy from being overly sweet, making them perfect partners for each other. Cheer to pairing Halloween candy with your favorite Biltmore wines! Halloween how-to with Biltmore wine Ready to try our Halloween how-to and savor Biltmore wines at home with your favorite trick-or-treat candy? Find our award-winning wines at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, online, or close to home with our Retail Locator.
Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC: $2 Million Committed to Our Community Posted on October 7, 2024 at 4:00 pm.Written by Jean Sexton For more than 125 years, Biltmore has been committed to our community. This legacy began with George and Edith Vanderbilt, and continues today with the leadership of their great- and great-great grandchildren. Commitment to community is a strong and constant thread woven through our story, connecting past and present. It guides our priorities in good times, and in the most difficult circumstances, like those we faced from Tropical Storm Helene. An Unprecedented Storm Flooding in historic Biltmore Village surpassed prior records, leaving behind heavy damage and debris. The water line on Biltmore’s Lodge Gate is visible here. In late September 2024, Tropical Storm Helene swept across the region, bringing heavy rainfall and gusting winds. While the area was prepared for flash flooding and power outages, no one could have predicted how quickly conditions would change and how widespread the destruction would be—surpassing even the historic level of the 1916 flood. As with the storm of 1916, community effort is at the core of how our region will recover today. An archival letter from Chauncey Beadle, Biltmore Estate Superintendent, to a concerned acquaintance, captures this sentiment well across generations: “Thank you cordially for your letter of August 2, and for all the good wishes therein contained. We are recovering rapidly from the destruction caused by the recent high-water in the rivers in our vicinity; and while the material losses have been great and the loss of life irreparable, yet the devastation will not be in evidence much longer. More and more I realize the solidarity of the community, and its quick resuscitation from the flood will always be a memory wherein one takes pride in his community.” Launching Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC On October 7, 2024, Biltmore announced a newly created fund to help provide immediate relief to employees in crisis and local organizations aiding in recovery efforts. On October 7, we announced a financial commitment of $2 million through the newly established Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC to aid in Helene relief efforts. “Western North Carolina has been our family’s home for more than 125 years, and we are devastated to see Helene’s impact here and in the surrounding counties. We remain committed to supporting our employees and neighbors in the aftermath of this unprecedented storm and the long-term recovery efforts. Now more than ever, we must work together to stabilize and rebuild this community,” said Bill Cecil, Jr., President and CEO of Biltmore. Biltmore strives to support community well-being through investments in local non-profits that assist people in need, increase cultural experiences, conserve the natural environment, and sustain the economic vitality of Western North Carolina. “The focus for the Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC is to provide critical and immediate financial relief for people in need, including supporting employees in crisis, providing support to area non-profits aiding our region, and investing in the recovery of our community,” Bill said. Our leadership was able to quickly identify and commit the relief funds to a group of non-profit organizations aiding in our community’s recovery efforts: Always Asheville Fund Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity Asheville Dream Center Concert for Carolina Meals on Wheels of Asheville and Buncombe County Mountain Strong Fund for Business Recovery The Community Foundation of WNC – Emergency and Disaster Response Fund World Central Kitchen (If you are a local organization seeking a grant, please consider applying to The Community Foundation of WNC.) Biltmore’s team in action While recovery efforts occurred on the estate, Biltmore’s team members were also actively helping our community. In addition to launching the Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC, we have been honored to assist the community in other ways: Assisting with historic collection removal and temporary storage for The Cathedral of All Souls—the parish church that George Vanderbilt originally had designed and constructed in Biltmore Village. Providing donations of food to Meals on Wheels, potable water to World Central Kitchen, cold-weather supplies to ABCCM, and temporary canopies for FEMA sites. Thank you for supporting our community Our local economy relies on tourism and your visit helps support the recovery of our employees, neighbors, and friends. Thanks to the incredible work of so many generous people, recovery is happening all around us. Many major roadways and local businesses have reopened to once again welcome visitors, while others are still recovering.With tourism being the main economic engine in Asheville and Western North Carolina, especially during the busy fall and holiday seasons, you are providing critical support for our region by visiting Biltmore and other local businesses. If you are interested in supporting further recovery efforts, please consider a financial donation to these local organizations: MANNA FoodBank Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity The Community Foundation of WNC You can also support area businesses by shopping or donating at Love Asheville from Afar. As a company and a community, we appreciate your patience as we navigate this crisis together and continue to focus on recovery efforts.
Shaping History: Biltmore’s Glass Art Legacy Posted on September 26, 2024 at 8:00 am.Written by Karina Hux Our story is one of art, innovation, and visionaries. From the awe-inspiring Crystal Palace to Dale Chihuly’s grand installations, glass has woven a mesmerizing tale of human creativity for over a century. Discover how Biltmore has become a living testament to the enduring power and beauty of the glass art movement. The Crystal Palace on Sydenham Hill, London, circa 1880. Crystal Palace Exhibition Held in London in 1851, the World’s Fair marked the first time artists, manufacturers, and inventors from around the world were welcomed to showcase their innovations. The Crystal Palace, constructed specifically for this event, was a marvel built entirely of cast iron and plate glass—its walls and ceiling included—symbolizing the era’s spirit of innovation. Beyond housing more than 900,000 square feet of exhibitor space, it set a standard for combining architecture and art on a grand scale. Hospitalitas/Prosperitas [Hospitality/Prosperity], 1881, by John La Farge. Patrons of the arts George Vanderbilt was born 11 years after that first World’s Fair, inheriting from his parents an appreciation for the arts and a vast fortune. Influenced by his upbringing, he traveled extensively and collected art throughout his life, forming friendships with renowned artists, architects, and writers alike. George’s formative years coincided with the Industrial Revolution’s peak. By 1880, artist John La Farge patented techniques for opalescent and iridescent glass, revolutionizing colored-glass windows. The following year, George’s father commissioned La Farge to create windows for his New York City home—a residence later inherited by George. During this same period, Louis Comfort Tiffany was pioneering methods for assembling colored-glass windows, further reshaping artistic possibilities. The Waltz, circa 1890, by Anders Zorn. Building artistic architecture In 1888, George began planning the construction of Biltmore Estate with architect Richard Morris Hunt and landscape designer Frederick Law Olmsted. By the time construction of the estate was underway, Hunt and Olmsted were simultaneously designing buildings and grounds for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Inspired by the Gothic cathedrals and French châteaux he had admired during his travels, George envisioned Biltmore House as a monumental work of art itself, sparing no expense in adorning it with the work of renowned artists such as Louis Comfort Tiffany and Anders Zorn. By 1905, George had added the La Farge windows from his father’s residence into his personal collection. Today, a set of these exquisite windows can be seen at Biltmore’s Winery in Antler Hill Village. Among the cherished artworks in Biltmore House is Anders Zorn’s evocative painting The Waltz, recently conserved and back on display for all to enjoy. Installation from Chihuly at Biltmore, March 25, 2024 – February 2, 2025 at Amherst Dale Chihuly, Torchlight Chandelier, 2011, 11‐1/2 x 9 x 8‐1/2′, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024, @ 2011 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. Glass art in the modern era While glass art manufacturing thrived, the era of grand stained-glass commissions had faded. However, the 1960s saw a revival with the Studio Glass Movement, where artists embraced experimentation aided by new tools and techniques. Chihuly entered the scene during this resurgence, delving into glassblowing under Harvey Littleton at the University of Wisconsin in 1966. His journey was soon accelerated after receiving a grant from the Louis Comfort Tiffany Foundation, marking the beginning of his artistic evolution. Fast forward to 2012, in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Seattle World’s Fair, Chihuly Garden and Glass opened to the public. Located at the base of the Space Needle, the museum offers visitors a permanent display of Chihuly’s indoor and outdoor art. Dale Chihuly, Mille Fiori (detail), 2023, 8‐1/2 x 34‐1/2 x 15′, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024 © 2023 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. Visit Chihuly at Biltmore Whether you’re exploring the grandeur of George’s art collection or marveling at Chihuly’s permanent Iris Gold and Garnet Chandelier installation at the Winery, each encounter urges you to appreciate the allure and rich history of glass—a testament to human creativity and ingenuity—that continues to inspire today. We invite you to experience this mesmerizing medium for yourself during Chihuly at Biltmore in the galleries of Amherst at Deerpark®. This once-in-a-lifetime exhibition ends on February 2, 2025. Reserve your tickets or special overnight package now to secure your preferred dates and times.
Top 8 Spots for Fall Color at Biltmore Posted on September 11, 2024 at 8:37 pm.Written by Chris Biltmore’s 8,000-acres of Blue Ridge Mountain beauty is hands down one of the best places to view dramatic fall color. An autumnal palette begins just inside the Lodge Gate and continues around every turn. But where exactly are the best places on the estate to find views of spectacular fall color? The view from the top of the Esplanade is certainly worth the hike. 1. Top of the Esplanade Found at the top of the Esplanade near the statue of Diana is a “signature shot” of Biltmore House, framed by enormous hemlocks, pines, and rhododendron, with a majestic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background. The South Terrace offers sprawling views of Biltmore’s Deer Park area and beyond. 2. South Terrace The wide open terrace on the south end of Biltmore House offers long-range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains with dramatic ever-changing fall color. Enjoy Biltmore House from a new perspective with our breathtaking Rooftop Tour. 3. Rooftop The Rooftop Tour of Biltmore House provides you with a bird’s-eye view after a climb up the Observatory’s spiral staircase and onto the balconies and rooftop of America’s Largest Home®. The dramatic mum display is different each year, but never disappoints. 4. Walled Garden The fall color continues as this formal garden is transformed with hundreds of vibrant mums in autumnal shades. Our landscaping crew does an incredible job with this display every year. The reflection off of the Bass Pond boasts fall’s glorious palette. 5. Bass Pond Follow the Azalea Garden path to the Bass Pond path and discover vivid leaves reflecting upon the water. The geese and other birds and wildlife around the water also add excitement to the season. The Lagoon is a guest favorite year-round, but the views during autumn are epic. 📷 by @bbansen. 6. Lagoon Any spot near the Lagoon offers dramatic fall color from the wide variety of hardwoods that surround it, but the Boat Ramp towards the middle provides particularly vibrant hues with a view of the west façade of Biltmore House in the distance. The Grand Terrace at The Inn offers a relaxing setting for leaf peeping. 7. The Inn on Biltmore Estate Set upon a hilltop near Antler Hill Village, grand panoramic views at The Inn on Biltmore Estate® are not to be missed. Relax on the Grand Terrace and enjoy a glass of Biltmore Wine as you take it all in. From easy walking paths to more intense hikes, each of our estate trails is a unique fall experience. 📷 by @mattvanswol. 8. Estate Trails Biltmore’s more than 22 miles of trails offer spectacular views throughout each season, but fall provides full immersion of color as you stroll through the beautiful woodlands of the estate. Antler Hill Village comes alive with the blazing colors of fall. BONUS: Antler Hill Village After a full day of exploration, unwind in Antler Hill Village with a complimentary wine tasting at the Winery. Our team has worked diligently to create the perfect fall landscape for your enjoyment! Plan your autumn escape today by checking out our Fall Report. The beauty of autumn is fleeting! Feature image by @selery_is_good
Visit Itinerary: Food & Wine Lover’s Guide to Biltmore Posted on August 21, 2024 at 8:00 am.Written by Heather Angel Beyond the grandeur of the Gilded Age chateau, you might be surprised to learn that Biltmore Estate is a culinary haven for food and wine lovers! At Biltmore, gracious hospitality has always included an emphasis on fine dining. The Vanderbilts’ table featured the freshest offerings from their market garden, farm, and dairy. If you’re a self-proclaimed foodie, you are cordially invited to savor Vanderbilt-inspired field-to-table freshness with our estate-grown ingredients, gourmet dining, regional comfort foods, and award-winning wines. This food and wine lover’s guide to Biltmore features a selection of our options and is designed to be easily tailored based on your restaurant preferences, dietary needs, and other estate activities you have planned during your visit to Biltmore. Bon appétit! Jump start your day with a hearty breakfast at Village Social. 🥞 Morning Whether you’re waking up on the estate or arriving early, get fueled up for a day filled with exploration, learning, restoration, and adventure with a hearty breakfast at Village Social (inside Village Hotel) or Sunday Brunch at Bistro. Coffee drinkers, be sure to order a cup (or two!) of our exclusive Biltmore coffee blend that you can’t get anywhere else. If a light breakfast is more your speed, stop by The Kitchen Café (inside Village Hotel) or The Bake Shop (by Biltmore House) for a delectable pastry and cup of Joe on the go. For a more casual food and wine experience, dine at Cedric’s Tavern in Antler Hill Village. 🥗 Mid-Day By the time lunch comes around, you’ve no doubt worked up an appetite! If you’re in the Biltmore House and Gardens area, Stable Café features Appalachian comfort food in a truly unique setting (the historic horse stables) while Courtyard Market and The Conservatory Café are excellent options for more casual, quick bites. Meanwhile, in the Antler Hill Village area, you’ll find mouth-watering pub fare at Cedric’s Tavern, European-inspired menus at Bistro, and grab-and-go Carolina barbeque at The Smokehouse Food Truck… all within walking distance! Discover our award winning wines with a complimentary wine tasting at the Winery! 🥂 Afternoon We know that 5 o’clock comes early when you’re on vacation, so be sure to visit our estate Winery (in Antler Hill Village) where you can enjoy a complimentary wine tasting and shop for your new favorite varietals at the Wine Shop, both housed inside our historic Biltmore Dairy Barn. Just across the “Scholar’s Walk,” you’ll find our Wine Bar, which is perfect for enjoying our award-winning wines by the glass or bottle paired with light fare, like charcuterie. Craving a little afternoon treat? Discover a match made in heaven with our Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting at the Winery, featuring locally made French Broad Chocolate, or swing by The Creamery (also in Antler Hill Village) for an Instagrammable confection. If you’re in the mood to channel your inner Vanderbilt, consider booking an elegant Afternoon Tea experience at our four-star Inn on Biltmore Estate. Indulge in a four-star food and wine experience at The Dining Room. 🍽️ Evening Cap off your day with an elegant, four-star meal at The Dining Room (inside The Inn on Biltmore Estate), where world-class service inspired by the Vanderbilt legacy and estate-raised ingredients shine. For more award-winning dining, nearby Cedric’s Tavern offers a more casual atmosphere and classic English pub favorites while Bistro’s menu highlights the charms of Europe and seasonal ingredients. No matter where you choose to dine on the estate, be sure to raise a glass and toast to a day well spent. Bistro’s menu highlights the charms of Europe and seasonal food and wine pairings. Additional Food and Wine Visit Planning Tips: Below are a few additional tips for planning your visit to Biltmore Estate. Plan Ahead: In addition to daily reservations required for entry to Biltmore House, reservations for sit-down meals are strongly recommended and can be made online. To dine on the estate, guests must have a daytime ticket, a Biltmore Annual Pass, or a stay at one of the estate’s splendid overnight properties. Check Current Hours: Restaurant opening and closing times vary throughout the year, so be sure to check our current Hours of Operations to know what will be available during your visit. Getting Around the Estate: Many guests underestimate the vast size of Biltmore Estate. With miles between points of interest, 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. Make it a Getaway: With so many great food and wine experiences to savor, treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable getaway with an overnight stay on Biltmore Estate or join our Passholder family. Field-to-Table Fun: We have multiple ways to learn about our field-to-table philosophy at Biltmore! For in-depth discovery, be sure to visit our Winery and Farmyard in Antler Hill Village or consider booking a guided activity like our Farm to Table Tour & Taste experience (available exclusively to overnight guests and Passholders; availability is subject to change). Don’t Forget Your Mementos: Visit our shops to find unique gourmet treats, like award-winning Biltmore Wines or honey from our estate beehives, to bring the Biltmore legacy home with you.