Wrap Up Holiday Gift Giving with Biltmore Wines!

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When you wrap up your holiday gift giving with Biltmore wines, everyone on your gift list will know how much they mean to you!

Floral designer Hope Wright recently retired from a 23-year career at Biltmore where she specialized in floral design at A Gardener’s Place gift shop below the Conservatory. We caught up with Hope for some expert guidance on gift wrapping wine to make it even more special.

Bottle of Biltmore wine in a gift bag
Dress up a plain wine gift bag with a bright bow and a tassel or other ornamentation

“I love Biltmore wines and I often give them as gifts, especially during the holiday season,” said Hope. “And while there’s nothing wrong with simply placing a bottle of wine in a gift bag, it’s also nice to wrap it in a creative way that says ‘you’re special’ to your recipient.”

Timeless natural elements

“Here are two easy ideas that look beautiful using a little bit of ribbon and the kind of greenery you can often cut from your own backyard or local park,” Hope said. “It doesn’t take much to make a big impact.”

Crown of ivy

Biltmore Estate Dry Rose wine with a crown of ivy
Create a simple “crown of ivy” to adorn the top of a wine bottle

To create this “crown of ivy” topper for our Biltmore Estate® Dry Rosé, Hope clipped an 18-inch strand of small leaf ivy and wrapped it several times around the neck of the bottle, tucking the end of the vine into itself to keep it in place.

She used about 18 inches of narrow, patterned ribbon to tie a simple shoestring-style bow and attached it to the ivy crown with wired twine. “I purposely attached the bow off-center,” said Hope, “so the wine label shows prominently,”

As a finishing touch, Hope clipped the ends of the bow to a length she liked and wound the ends of wired twine into a few whimsical tendrils that complemented the ivy.

Ribbon wrapping

Biltmore Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon wrapped with a ribbon and greenery
This gift-wrapping treatment couldn’t be more simple–or more beautiful!

Hope wrapped a length of burlap ribbon around the bottle just below its mid-section, making sure not to cover up the label. Our Biltmore Reserve wines on this outstanding Biltmore® Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon North Carolina. Handcrafted from estate-grown grapes, all of our Biltmore® Reserve wines offer an excellent way to give a local item as a gift.

She used a different type of ribbon to tie a simple bow around the bottle, centering it over the first ribbon for contrast.

“Once you have the ribbons and the bow in place, you can tuck in any type of greenery you like. I used two different colors of arborvitae to create more interest and texture, but sprigs of ivy would work, or a twig with berries–the possibilities are endless!” Hope noted.

Wrap up your holiday gift giving

To wrap these wine bottles for gift giving, Hope used the same wrapping technique on each of them, but varied the wrapping material and trimmings.

Global journey

Wine bottle wrapped in a map
Create serious travel vibes by wrapping a wine bottle in a vintage map

For the travelers on your gift list, wrap a bottle of wine in a vintage map, like this one that Hope found in a thrift store. For an eco-friendly option, you could also opt for recycled brown craft paper or upcycled paper shopping bags.

To fully cover a Biltmore Wine bottle with your paper of choice, you’ll need a 24″x 24″ section of the paper. After wrapping the wine, Hope knotted a length of raffia around the neck of the bottle, then added a simple bow of red ribbon and a bit of greenery for some holiday flare.

Wrap it royally

Biltmore wine bottle wrapped in elegant fabric
Look for rich fabric remnants that you can repurpose for wrapping a bottle of Biltmore wine

“In addition to vintage maps, I look for beautiful fabric remnants that will make gorgeous gift wrap for wines,” said Hope. “Simply wrap the bottle, then tie a coordinating ribbon around the neck–that’s all you need to make it special.”

As a bonus, Hope created an elegant pine tassel to set off the regal look of this wine gift, She clipped enough white pine needles to get a full-looking tassel, hot-glued the tops together, and bound the top with narrow wired twine to hide the glue. While binding the top, she also made a loop of the wired twine to go around the neck of the bottle.

Step-by-step: tea towel wine gift wrap

Collage showing steps for wrapping a wine bottle in a tea towel
To gift wrap a wine bottle in a tea towel, follow the easy steps shown here

Hope chose a Biltmore tea towel with a Christmas pattern to gift wrap this exceptional bottle of The Hunt Red Blend Sonoma County. After fluffing the ends of the tea towel, she tied an elegant bow of wired silk ribbon around the neck.

To make the gift twice as nice, Hope added a pretty Biltmore Christmas ornament to the bottle.

“Look at each of steps shown in this instructional collage,” Hope said, “and you’ll see how easy it really is to gift wrap a wine bottle in a tea towel!”

Gift giving: bundles and baskets

Biltmore cheeseboard, wine, and dip mixes bundled for gift giving
Bundle several items with a similar theme, like a stylish cheeseboard, a bottle of Biltmore wine, and a selection of our delicious gourmet mixes and dips

Wrap up a bountiful bundle

“Here’s an easy way to create a bundle of gifts that share a common theme,” said Hope. “Choose a sturdy cheeseboard and secure a bottle of Biltmore wine to it with a ribbon. Add a stack of Biltmore’s delicious gourmet food mixes and dips to the board and tie a wide ribbon around the whole bundle.”

For an extra surprise, Hope turned a set of cheese knives into a special topper for the bundle, then tucked a few sprigs of fresh rosemary around the tools.

“The rosemary is the crowning touch that pulls the culinary theme together,” Hope noted, “and it smells wonderful, too!”

Holiday hospitality in a basket

Staff favorites: Biltmore wine and gourmet food in a basket
Surprise someone special with a gift basket filled with Biltmore sparkling wine, gourmet food, and other goodies

Who wouldn’t want to receive a basket of holiday hospitality full of Biltmore wine and gourmet goodies, especially when it is embellished with fresh greenery and ribbons?

“For this gift giving example, I chose a medium-sized basket that would easily hold a bottle of Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine, a selection of Biltmore mixes and dips, Wassail Drink Spice, seasonings and sauces, and a holiday tea towel,” said Hope.

She lined the basket with a type of honeycomb packaging paper that’s recyclable, and tucked in a few cardboard risers to keep smaller items from falling to the bottom.

Once everything was arranged to Hope’s satisfaction, she filled in the background with magnolia leaves and pine cones, wired an elegant golden bow to the basket’s rim, and balanced the look with a Biltmore Christmas ornament on the other side.

Make holiday gift giving more merry!

Bottles of Biltmore wine wrapped for gift giving
Wrap up your gift giving with Biltmore wines, and consider including a bottle of our sparkling grape juice for those who prefer that option.

“All the ideas I’ve shown here easy to recreate,” Hope said, “and that was my goal. I hope you’ll be inspired to surprise friends and family with special touches like these that make your holiday gift giving even more meaningful.”

Find everything you need to celebrate the season in style–including Biltmore wines, Biltmore sparkling grape juice, and gourmet foods–at estate shops and online at biltmoreshop.com.

Our Holiday Gingerbread House Was Built To Last

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Biltmore’s holiday gingerbread house was built to last–mostly because it’s not really made from real gingerbread!

Although the fanciful replica of America’s Largest Home® appears to be constructed from freshly baked gingerbread that’s been decorated with swirls of snowy icing and old-fashioned candy details, it’s actually an incredibly detailed work of art from our friends at Applied Imagination.

Gingerbread house version of Biltmore House
Once finished, the faux gingerbread version of Biltmore House had to be carefully transported from Applied Imagination’s workshop in Alexandria, KY, to Asheville, NC

These talented artists specialize in handcrafting architectural models, sculptures, and garden railways out of natural materials. They created all of our Biltmore Gardens Railway displays and Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcards in Antler Hill Village now through February 19, 2024.

In past years, our talented Biltmore Estate pastry chefs created real confectionary replicas of Biltmore House, but it was always a monumental task that took weeks to complete and needed a lot of space to assemble. It was also challenging to transport the finished gingerbread house to the Main Kitchen without losing some wreaths and roof tiles along the way!

A firm foundation

Wooden model of Biltmore House
Jason Pleva puts finishing touches on his scale model of Biltmore House

In 2017, Jason Pleva, a member of Biltmore’s carpentry team, used the plans of Biltmore House to build a wooden scale model that could be used as a base for a gingerbread house. It was a good solution that shaved off a lot of construction time, but unfortunately, our chefs found that decorative icing doesn’t cling to wood as well as it does to gingerbread.

Because we’d had so many wonderful experiences with Applied Imagination and the amazing structures they’d created for our Biltmore Gardens Railway displays, we asked if the artists could tackle this Christmas conundrum for us, using Jason’s model as a base for a gingerbread house that would be as long lasting as it was beautiful.

In September 2021, Stephanie Winters, Creative Director/Lead Sculptor, and Ava Roberts, Assistant Sculptor, of Applied Imagination finished their version of America’s Largest Home®. The results were breathtaking, and our “gingerbread house” now takes place of pride in our Main Kitchen during Christmas at Biltmore.

Fun facts from the gingerbread construction project:

  • Time to complete: 1200 hours over the course of five months
  • Measurements: 78½” wide x 32” deep x 32” high (including spires)

Building materials

Detail of gingerbread house version of Biltmore House
Applied Imagination created wonderful details, right down to the beloved marble lions at the Front Door of Biltmore House
  • Gingerbread Cookie Base
    • Tile grout mixed with Mod Podge® Matte and sponged onto 3/16” Gatorboard shapes
  • Wavy Shingled Roof
    • Wooden fan handles covered with tile grout and Mod Podge
  • Windows and Mullions
    • Window panes created with modeling dowel rods and architectural modeling materials (bass wood).
    • Windows created with poured casting resin sprinkled with clear glitter.
    • Textured windows (exterior staircase) have the addition of large, granular, clear beads mixed with resin.
    • Windows backed with gold shimmer paper to resemble the effect of being lit within.
  • Spires on Roof, Staircase Facade, Window Tops, Railing Tops
    • Antique glass headpins; large and small twist shapes in dark green, light green, purple, and pale ice; top spires painted antique gold
  • Piped Icing Shapes
    • All piped icing that makes up the majority of detail on the Biltmore House model was created completely by hand with Liquid Sculpey® (polymer clay). Shapes were formed using latex cake-decorating molds.
  • Snow Blanket
    • Spackling paste to create a base for sculpting and building shapes
    • Clear glass diamond glitter was sprinkled on wet paste to give snow drifts and mounds the look of fresh powder
  • Trees and Bushes
    • Dry floral design cones and spheres, further sculpted by hand to resemble pine tree shapes. Finished with paint and landscape modeling greenery.
  • Biltmore Lions
    • Paper clay and white acrylic paint with a small amount of gold tinted glitter/mica.
  • Garland
    • Thin and flexible English faux pine rope
    • Faux miniature boxwood/bay leaf roping
    • Feathery evergreen (lions’ necks)
    • Floral accents: faux red and gold berries; red velvet and gold-backed ribbon hand-fashioned into miniature bows
Gingerbread house in the Main Kitchen at Biltmore
The gingerbread house takes place of pride in the Main Kitchen during Christmas at Biltmore

Candy decorations

  • Faux Candy Decorations
    • Resin gumdrops and gummies (edge and facade details)
    • Sculpey clay chocolate swirls (base of the spires)
    • Chocolate shavings, glass glitter (soot/embers in chimney tops, base of lions, base of spires, front facade details)
    • Resin chocolate pretzels (fancy railings)
    • Resin chocolate chips (spires inset)
    • Small sugared gum drops, glass/plastic headpins (main detail throughout in purple, orange, yellow, red, green)
    • Variety of candy colored balls of various sizes (beads and headpins)
    • Sculpey clay swirled balls (small detail elements)
  • Cut Cinnamon Sticks
    • Facade details, small railings, wrought iron base for spires
  • Peppermint Sticks
    • Small (vintage paper hand-rolled on dowel rods)
    • Large sticks on main facade (decorative paper on dowel rods)
    • Peppermint balls on main facade (vintage spun cotton and thread)
  • Gumballs, Gingerballs, Round Bulb Ornaments
    • Green and red faux floral berries, gold- and silver-painted floral berries, painted beads

Celebrate Christmas at Biltmore

The Banquet Hall Tree: A Christmas at Biltmore Tradition
The Banquet Hall Christmas Tree is a favorite holiday tradition

To see this marvelous piece of eye candy displayed in the Main Kitchen, make reservations for a holiday visit during our annual Christmas at Biltmore celebration, November 3, 2023–January 7, 2024, in Asheville, NC.

The Vanderbilts’ 1901 New Year’s Celebration

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At each year’s end, we reflect on the events of the past year before looking forward to the promises of a New Year. If we were to look further back, into the last century, we would discover that the Vanderbilts and their friends celebrated the holiday in many of the same ways as we do today!

In 1901, George and Edith Vanderbilt invited a large party of friends and acquaintances to Biltmore to ring in the New Year. The house party—twenty guests in all—included diplomats, lawyers, authors, and military officers.

The only photo in the Biltmore collection from the Vanderbilts’ 1901 celebration. The woman is believed to be Elizabeth “Bessie” Beers-Curtis de Talleyrand-Périgord, Marquise de Talleyrand, an American heiress who married into the French aristocracy. The man is unidentified.

The Guest List

  • George B. Dorr, a conservationist known as the “father of Acadia National Park”
  • Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., son of Biltmore’s landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted
  • Elizabeth “Bessie” Beers-Curtis de Talleyrand-Périgord, Marquise de Talleyrand, an American heiress who married into the French aristocracy
  • Anna Roosevelt Cowles, the older sister of Theodore Roosevelt
  • Joseph Howland Hunt, one of the sons of Biltmore House architect Richard Morris Hunt
  • Giovanni del Drago, a socialite from an old Roman family (often mistakenly identified as a prince)
  • Eliot Gregory, a painter and essayist
  • Frederick Jesup Simson, a lawyer, author, and later the Ambassador to Argentina
  • Larz Anderson, an American diplomat who served at the London and Rome Embassies

One of the most notable guests was Joseph Hodges Choate, a prominent New York lawyer and the U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain.

Ambassador Joseph H. Choate as depicted in an Asheville Citizen-Times article on the New Year's event from December 30, 1901.
Ambassador Joseph H. Choate as depicted in an Asheville Citizen-Times article from December 30, 1901.

How They Spent Their Days

The house party stayed at Biltmore for about a week. Due to bad weather, the guests stayed inside for the first couple of days. Ambassador Choate made use of the Library, which appealed to him as “the most charming part of the house.” Others exercised in the Gymnasium and swam in the “vast swimming tank.”

When the weather improved, they went hiking, hunting and horseback riding. They also took garden strolls and went on carriage drives to see “the farms and the wonderful stock.”

The New Year's event was highlighted in an article from The Philadelphia Inquirer published December 31, 1901.
The event was highlighted in an article from The Philadelphia Inquirer published December 31, 1901.

Ringing in the New Year

On New Year’s Eve, the party “sat up to greet the New Year and were very merry indeed,” Choate remarked in a letter to his wife. “There were games and dancing, hot punch served at the stroke of 12 and quite a revel even after that. Mrs. Vanderbilt fills her great place with the utmost fitness.”

Just as the Vanderbilts celebrated with friends and family, we hope you and yours enjoy the holiday just the same.

Happiest of New Years from your friends at Biltmore!

Celebrate Biltmore’s Tree-Raising Tradition Virtually

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Please enjoy this archived content from a Christmas past.

For 2021, Biltmore invites you once again to join us online to celebrate our tree-raising tradition virtually!

“One of our most beloved Christmas at Biltmore traditions is raising and decorating the grand Banquet Hall tree,” said Lizzie Borchers, Floral Manager.

Man in Biltmore hat helps raise the Banquet Hall Christmas tree
Wade Ledford, a retired member of Biltmore’s Engineering Services team, enjoys returning each year to help raise the Banquet Hall Christmas tree

“George Vanderbilt first welcomed friends and family to Biltmore House on Christmas Eve 1895,” Lizzie said, “so we want to celebrate by sharing a closer look at the process, including many behind-the-scenes details.”

Experience this year’s tree raising virtually

With the health and safety of our guests and employees in mind, we’ve created a Christmas mini-documentary to give you an exciting virtual view of this 35-foot Fraser fir’s journey to become the seasonal centerpiece in America’s Largest Home®.

Celebrating Christmas at Biltmore

Christmas decorations on the mantel in the Music Room of Biltmore House
The Music Room is transformed by Floral Designer Cristy Leonard’s interpretation of the carol “We Three Kings”

Biltmore’s Floral Displays team developed a special “Christmas Carol” theme, using an array of traditional seasonal songs that were as popular in the last century as they are today, to create the décor in America’s Largest Home.

The Vestibule, Entry Hall, and Winter Garden feature inspiration from Deck the Halls because the words “boughs of holly” reflect George Vanderbilt’s request for “barrels of mistletoe and wagonloads of holly” to decorate his new home.

Sheet music decoration on Christmas tree
This year’s decorating theme in Biltmore House is “Christmas Carols,” so look for ornamental details like sheet music and instruments

“Look for the traditional reds and greens of the season as you enter,” said Floral Designer Lesley Tobar. “And be inspired to deck your own halls!”

Star of the show

For 2021, the Floral team once again used an enormous eight-pointed Bethlehem star, custom built by Jason Pleva, a member of Biltmore’s carpentry team, as the decorative topper for the 35-foot-tall Banquet Hall Christmas tree.

Christmas tree topper
Lucinda Ledford (right) and her teammates adjust the 8-pointed golden star atop Biltmore’s largest Christmas tree

“I chose The 12 Days of Christmas as inspiration for interpreting the Banquet Hall,” said Lucinda Ledford, Floral Designer. “In addition to traditional Christmas colors of red and green, I included shades of gold,” Lucinda noted, “so the beautiful golden star was a perfect complement for the tree.”

Golden wreaths above the Banquet Hall fireplace
Inspired by “The 12 Days of Christmas,” Lucinda placed five golden wreaths on the mantel

“The Banquet Hall features other details from the beloved carol, like these five golden ring-like wreaths on the fireplace mantel,” said Lucinda.

Make it jolly

Biltmore House Library mantel hung with stockings
Cheerful stockings and fringed swags on the mantel lighten the formal tone of the Library this holiday season

Biltmore Floral team member Don Holloway chose the Christmas décor in the Library with inspiration from Jolly Old St. Nicholas, a lively carol that always sets a cheerful mood.

“I chose classic reds, greens, and golds for this room that displays about half of the 23,000 books that George Vanderbilt collected,” said Don, “but I also allowed the playfulness of the song to shine through, lightening the formal tone of the Library.”

Suggestions of stained glass

The Oak Sitting Room, decorated for the holidays in Biltmore House
Translucent jewel-tone ornaments suggest stained glass and complement the vivid tones of the Oak Sitting Room

Inspired by the carol O Holy Night, Kyla Dana, Floral Supervisor, selected jewel-toned decorations to complement the rich, vibrant colors of the recently restored Oak Sitting Room.

“The worshipful tone of that song led me to think about All Souls Cathedral in Biltmore Village, which has many ties to the Vanderbilt family. The translucent ornaments I chose for the Oak Sitting Room represent the stained glass windows in the church.”

Magnificent details

Hanging Christmas lights on the Banquet Hall tree in Biltmore House
Once the Banquet Hall tree is in place, strings of lights are added with help from team members in the Organ Loft

“These are just a few of the magnificent details we’ll have ready for you,” said Lizzie. “So whether you’re able to visit in person or simply enjoy seeing our updates on Facebook and Instagram, Christmas at Biltmore and Candlelight Christmas Evenings add a lot of excitement to the holiday season.”

Virtual entertaining ideas

Three friends in front of a Christmas tree with Biltmore wines and charcuterie
Whether you’re gathering with friends or hosting a virtual celebration, Biltmore has plenty of holiday hospitality inspiration!

In addition to our virtual tree-raising event, we’ve also created a special video to help you host a virtual wine tasting at home. To make it even easier, select our Virtual Wine Tasting Set featuring each of the wines from the video.

Our Biltmore Tree Raising Wine Trio makes a great gift
Savor the delights of our 2021 Tree Raising Wine Trio

We’re also offering a Tree-Raising Wine Trio to help you celebrate our virtual event (or your own tree raising festivities), plus our 2021 Seasoned with Cheer holiday hospitality guide filled with inspirational ideas for perfect pairings, gracious gatherings, and gift-giving suggestions to make the season even more merry.

Celebrate Small Moments That Matter With Biltmore

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This season, celebrate the small moments that matter most with Biltmore.

“Gracious gatherings, special events, and festive decorations accompany the holiday season, but many times it’s the small moments that we really remember most, like catching up with friends over a glass of Biltmore wine,” said Jan Douglas, Director of Guest Relations.

Group of friends toasting with Biltmore wine
With Biltmore wines, all your gatherings are seasoned with cheer!

Make it meaningful

“Amidst the exciting rush of the holidays, it’s important to celebrate small moments that matter. Remembering what’s meaningful, carving out time for ourselves, and prioritizing family and cherished friends is truly what this joyful season is all about,” Jan said.

We’ve gathered some of our guests’ favorite memories and traditions to inspire your own celebrations.

Collecting special memories

Jim Shore Biltmore Santa keepsake
Discover all the delightful details that make this collectible Jim Shore Biltmore® Santa so special!

For Cheri Compton, a long-time Passholder from Knoxville, Tennessee, time spent at Biltmore with her mother was a cherished Christmas tradition.

“My mother and I went to Candlelight Christmas Evenings at Biltmore for several years before she was unable to travel,” Cheri explained. “We would spend hours looking at the trees and the beautiful decorations, and her favorite thing was to be sure we were there while there was seasonal music in the house.”

When her mother could no longer make the trip, Cheri continued the tradition with friends and always brought her mother a keepsake Biltmore Santa for her collection.

Handwritten holiday wishes

Bottles of Biltmore wine on a table
Celebrate the season with Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine

Mailing handwritten Christmas cards is Paige Price’s favorite way to send a hug to the special people in her life.

“At Christmas, I like to take time to remember friends and former co-workers whom I no longer see on a regular basis,” she said.

“In preparation, I make a trip to Biltmore every fall from my home in Lexington, Kentucky, to choose my Christmas wine to save for the card-writing occasion,” Paige said. “When I sit down to begin composing notes to each person and reflect on the memorable times we spent together, I celebrate them, and the season, by having a glass!”

This year, Paige opted for a bottle of our Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs to add special sparkle to the small moments that matter most to her.

Sounds of the season

Hands playing a piano
Music strikes a special chord for many guests at Biltmore

Kim Meade of Tennessee has been a professional pianist for most of her life, but a Christmas performance at Biltmore 30 years ago still holds a special place in her heart.

“I was blessed to be part of a church group that performed at Biltmore House,” Kim said. “Talk about a dream come true! There are few places left that allow you the feeling of stepping back in time. Biltmore is one of those, and that night was an evening I will never forget.”

Kim remembers the decorated trees in every room, and the feeling that for one moment in time, she and all the others were special guests of the Vanderbilts.

“We felt as if George and Edith Vanderbilt might just walk in at any moment to make sure every detail was in place!” said Kim. “Being a small part of the magic of Biltmore during Christmas was a forever moment for me.”

Seek out small moments that matter most

Couple toasting a small moments with Biltmore wine
Savor all your special small moments with Biltmore wines!

As the holiday season gets under way, we hope you’ll make time to visit Biltmore and discover your own small moments that matter.

Like many of our guests whose special Christmas memories are created with Biltmore as the backdrop, we invite you to join us to celebrate your own small moment traditions—or create new ones—that will bring you closer to family, friends, and what matters most to you.

Find everything you need to celebrate the season, from award-winning wines and gourmet food to jewelry and gifts, in our Seasoned with Cheer holiday hospitality guide.

The Smallest Yuletide Details Inside the Banquet Hall

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While standing in the Banquet Hall during the Christmas season, it’s easy to be mesmerized by the magnificent towering Christmas tree that anchors the southern end of the room. The tree is the heartbeat of Biltmore House each holiday season, and for good reason. It stands 35 feet above ground, has long, flowy branches, and is full of ornaments so large they might be mistaken for shiny basketballs.

A smaller display sits across the room, as enchanting as its counterpart, especially since some of this tremendous room’s tiniest yuletide details reside there. Underneath the two ornament-packed trees gracing either side of the three-bay fireplace you’ll find classic toys that reflect this year’s design theme, “An 1895 Christmas.”

Joslyn Kelly, a Biltmore floral designer who decorated the Banquet Hall this year, says she placed them there for a specific reason. “I wanted to focus on classic toys that span the test of time, toys that all children can and probably have enjoyed in some capacity.”

Joslyn’s list of toys included jack-in-the-boxes, dolls, tea sets, tops, yo-yos, and even a pair of ballerina slippers. “I feel like these tiny toys have brought many people joy throughout the years from George Vanderbilt’s time until now,” says Joslyn, “and that joy is what I wanted to bring to the Banquet Hall this year.”

Enjoy these details from Joslyn’s Christmas in the Banquet Hall design now, and on your Biltmore visit!

Vintage doll under the christmas tree in banquet hall.

This adorable doll on her velvet couch is one of the exquisite design details in the Banquet Hall. According to an 1895 New York Times article, dolls were the staple of the toy trade. Girls preferred blond dolls to brunettes and liked them dressed in fancy clothes, just like our doll above!

This jack-in-the-box, an ever-classic toy, is ready to amuse his Biltmore guests.

This jack-in-the-box, an ever-classic toy, is ready to amuse his Biltmore guests. You might be startled to learn the “surprise” history of this 15th century Jack.

Boys and girls throughout history have found a yo-yo or two under the tree on Christmas morning.

Boys and girls throughout history have found a yo-yo or two under the tree on Christmas morning. This toy dates back to well before 1895. The first historical mention of a yo-yo was from Greece in the year 500 B.C. At that time they were called a disc.

This tiny tea service looks right at home in Biltmore House under the christmas tree in banquet hall.

This children’s tea set would have looked right at home in tiny Cornelia Vanderbilt’s bedroom. Miniature sets became popular among young girls in the 18th century. During this time, toys were made gender specific and prepared children for a world with strictly determined roles within society.

Ballet slippers ready for dance and play under the christmas tree in banquet hall.

These ballet slippers lay ready for dance and play. How many twirls around the banquet hall do you think Cornelia would have made on Christmas Day?

Home for the Holidays: Virtual Gift Giving and Entertaining

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This year, staying home for the holidays means you’ll need more virtual gift giving and entertaining ideas than ever before.

Virtual gift giving and entertaining

Celebrate Christmas with Biltmore wines
Whether you’re home for the holidays, traveling, or hosting a virtual celebration, Biltmore wines help make the season bright

To help you savor the season instead of stressing about the details, we sought inspiration from the experts with Biltmore wines to assist you in making the most of the moments that matter.

“Each year, we create a special wine guide that highlights fine Biltmore wines, great wine and food pairings, and useful accessories,” said Chris Price, Wine Marketing Manager.

“For our 2020 Holiday Wine Guide, however, we’ve gone all out to bring you everything from how to host a virtual wine tasting to a custom playlist perfect for prepping a holiday feast in the kitchen or keeping the party going,” Chris said, “so whether you’re gathering together at home, traveling, or hosting a virtual celebration, we hope you’ll be inspired to simplify and celebrate the season with Biltmore wines!”

Bundle the best of Biltmore wines

Biltmore wines with chocolate desserts
For the holidays, we’ve bundled the best of our award-winning wines to help you simplify your celebrations (and save)!

No matter what kind of holiday event you’re planning, we’ve bundled the best of our Biltmore wines to make it easy to celebrate the season:

  • Tree-Raising Wine Trio
    Raise a glass to celebrate our most beloved Christmas tradition–tree raising at Biltmore–or enjoy while decorating your own tree at home.
  • Winemaker’s Wonderland Bundle
    Biltmore Winemaker Sharon Fenchak reveals four of her seasonal favorites for holiday entertaining!
  • Holiday Cheer Wine Trio
    Whether you’re celebrating in person or hosting a virtual gathering, this trio of wines is perfect for every palate. Savor as a set or give as thoughtful gifts of the season.

Celebrate with the sounds of the season

Couple video chatting with friends during Christmas dinner
Make your virtual celebration merrier with a custom holiday playlist from Biltmore wines

According to John Justice from our Biltmore wines sales team, it doesn’t matter if you’re celebrating together with friends or video chatting with family far away, music is one of the best ways to set the mood.

With that in mind, John created a custom holiday playlist filled with festive favorites he selected especially for the merriest months of the year.

“I enjoy cooking for friends and family,” John said, “and I’ve always got music playing while everyone helps out in the kitchen. Whether you’ve got a house filled of folks or you’re hosting a virtual gathering, pour yourself a glass of Biltmore wine and get everybody in the holiday groove with this mix of old and new songs!”

Friends toasting with red wine
Our holiday playlist pairs perfectly with everything from family gatherings and road trips to visit friends to virtual entertaining from the comfort of home

“After your event ends, you can send everyone the link to the playlist so they can enjoy it all season long,” said John. “It’s becomes a memorable party favor for your guests!”

Pour on the cheer with wine-themed cocktails

Tray of cocktails
Make the season bright with a holiday happy hour including cocktails featuring Biltmore wines!

For those who enjoy holiday happy hours, Biltmore wines puts the “old fashioned” in classic cocktails, plus new twists on traditional libations.

“Mix it up this season with delightful cocktails featuring Biltmore wines like our refreshing Orange Muscat Mimosa,” advised Chris, “or go elegant with a French Rose 75 topped with Biltmore sparkling wine–there’s something for every taste and occasion!”

Give the gift of a memorable experience

Women with Vanderbilt Wine Club shipment
Give someone special the gift of membership in our Vanderbilt Wine Club®

When it comes to gift giving, nothing satisfies like an experience that the recipient can enjoy in the moment and relive with great memories.

“One of my favorite ways to celebrate someone special is by giving them a year-long membership to the Vanderbilt Wine Club,” said Chris. “The person who receives it can look forward to a shipment of our award-winning Biltmore wines delivered to their door each season, and they’ll think of you each time it arrives!”

Biltmore Red Wine & Chocolate tasting setup
Enjoy a specialty experience like our Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting at the Winery.

Other memorable options include a Biltmore Annual Pass or a Biltmore gift card redeemable for a Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting or other specialty experiences at the Winery.

2020 Holiday Wine Guide

Biltmore wines in front of a fireplace
Find inspiration for virtual gift giving and entertaining with our 2020 Holiday Wine Guide

Discover more virtual gift giving in our 2020 Holiday Wine Guide, including chef-inspired food pairings, stellar Biltmore wine picks, a video for hosting virtual holiday wine tastings, crafts, seasonal DIY décor, and other easy ideas for enjoying time together with loved ones, near and far.

You can also stock up on Biltmore wines in most estate shops, online, and in your own neighborhood with our Retail Locator.

Creating A Glorious Gingerbread Cottage

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Thank you for enjoying this archived content from 2019!

Each year, the pastry team at The Inn on Biltmore Estate® welcomes Christmas at Biltmore with a special tradition: the construction of a gingerbread cottage inspired by the beautiful details of George Vanderbilt’s private estate.

The Cottage on Biltmore Estate
The Cottage on Biltmore Estate

Choosing the perfect gingerbread cottage

For 2019, the team has chosen to reproduce the charming Market Gardener’s Cottage that greets guests as they travel to and from The Inn on Biltmore Estate.

Designed by Richard Howland Hunt, son of Biltmore House architect Richard Morris Hunt, the Market Gardener’s Cottage dates back to 1896. It was the site of the estate’s Market Garden, also known as the Truck Farm.

Fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the fertile fields surrounding the cottage were served in Biltmore House, and the surplus was sold to area hotels, grocers, and community members.

Now known as Cottage on Biltmore Estate, this historic structure is offered as a premier overnight property that allows guests to enjoy an extraordinary lodging experience.

A challenging creation

Members of The Inn’s pastry team contributed more than 295 hours of labor to construct this gingerbread replica of Biltmore’s historic Market Gardener’s Cottage.

“Creating the cottage was extra challenging for us this year because we had to halt production for two days since Thanksgiving was so late,” said Pastry Chef Dana McFarland who oversees the project each year.

A family of bears on the steps of the gingerbread cottage
A family of bears on the steps of the gingerbread cottage

Special gingerbread cottage ingredients

Her team used the following ingredients for their massive gingerbread construction project:

  • 124 pounds of powdered sugar
  • 17 pounds of gingerbread
  • 15 pounds of modeling chocolate
  • 14 pounds of Jolly Rancher® hard candies
  • 8 pounds of fondant
  • 5 pounds of old-fashioned candy sticks
  • 5 pounds of caramel chocolate balls
  • 4 pounds of Jelly Belly® jelly beans
  • 9 ounces of M&M’s®
  • 2 ounces of Sixlets®

In researching the Market Gardener’s Cottage to make sure they had the details correct, the pastry team learned that there were originally several greenhouses behind it. They created an array of fruits and vegetables that might be grown in a greenhouse at this time of year to display in the cottage’s courtyard, including apples, butternut squash, carrots, pears, and pumpkins.

Confection perfection!

“All the shingles on the cottage were hand-cut out of modeling paste,” Chef McFarland said. “And though most guests have guessed that the courtyard bricks are made out of Tootsie Rolls®, we actually used Jolly Rancher candies to get that look.”

The decorated Christmas tree in the courtyard of the cottage
The decorated Christmas tree in the courtyard of the cottage

One special highlight of the gingerbread cottage is the Christmas tree in the courtyard–it has tiny garlands of popped sorghum on it–and it spins!

“The wreaths and garlands on the cottage all have individually-cut cut green flowers on them to give the appearance of evergreens,” said Chef McFarland, “while the bushes in the front and the trees in the back are made with Rice Krispy® treats.”

A tiny perfectly detailed gingerbread wreath
A perfectly detailed gingerbread wreath

Last but certainly not least, Chef McFarland notes that there are 60 feet of mini lights on the outside of the gingerbread cottage, and an infuser placed inside the structure makes it look as if there’s real smoke rising from the chimney.

Special thanks to The Inn’s talented pastry team of Chef Dana McFarland, Megan Shreve, Ron Levitan, Lucas Conti, Leilani Padilla, Rachel Tipping, Ashley Buchleitner, Laura Hinzman, Danyelle Sander, Sarah Vess, and Anthony Mushinski for all their hard work!

Visit now

Gingerbread house
Create your own charming confection at one of our Gingerbread House Tea events!

This charming confectionery delight was displayed in the Lobby of The Inn during our 2019 Christmas at Biltmore celebration.

Decking the Halls, Biltmore Style

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Please enjoy this archived content from Christmas 2019.

Each year, our Floral Displays team decks the halls of America’s Largest Home® for Christmas at Biltmore.

For 2019, discover how they draw inspiration from the beautiful details, including the art and furnishings, in Biltmore House.

Winter Garden and Surroundings

Decorating Christmas trees in Biltmore House
Norene Barrett puts finishing touches on a Christmas tree topper

Norene Barrett began working at Biltmore 18 years ago in the mail services department. Though she enjoyed her role, she looked for different ways to express her own creativity.

In 2015, after taking an intensive course in floral design, Norene joined Floral Displays and is now responsible for decorating sections of Biltmore House and the estate.

Decorating Christmas trees in Biltmore House
Floral team members Feny Bryan, Norene Barrett, and Kathy Nameth decorate a trio of trees inspired by the Greek friezes on the wall

“This trio of trees is meant to take guests back in time,” Norene said of her design for the area between the Winter Garden and the Billiard Room. “The trees are cheery and bright, but I used a lot of white elements for continuity with the series of Greek friezes on the walls.”

Norene added snowy branches to her décor along with period ornaments to bring a nostalgic feeling of Christmas past.

Winter Garden in Biltmore House decorated for Christmas at Biltmore
Winter Garden decorated for Christmas at Biltmore

For the Winter Garden, Norene is planning to light the evergreen garlands so that they glow, and instead of traditional kissing balls suspended from the greenery, she has created sparkling swags that catch the light. She’ll also add plenty of poinsettias to emphasize the garden feel of the space.

Breakfast Room

Adding ornaments to a Christmas tree in the Breakfast Room
Joslyn Kelly adds ornaments to the Breakfast Room tree

“This is the room where the family would eat breakfast, so I wanted it to have a warm, homey feeling as if you’re being welcomed to the table,” said Joslyn Kelly, floral designer.

Pink ornaments for the Breakfast Room
A selection of red and pink Christmas ornaments chosen to complement the Breakfast Room decor

Drawing inspiration from the room’s elegant cut velvet draperies and upholstery, Joslyn decked the halls with ornaments in a range of pinks and reds to complement the lovely patterns and colors of the fabric.

Floral displays on the Breakfast Room table
Lush floral displays and cranberry topiaries top the Breakfast Room table during Christmas at Biltmore

Look for glorious floral arrangements, towering topiaries of deep burgundy cranberries, and gilded pears among the delicate crystal and china place settings on the table.

Morning Salon

Nativity scene in the Tapestry Gallery
The estate’s Nativity scene, often staged in the Tapestry Gallery in years past

Cristy Leonard has been a member of the floral team for seven years, and the Salon is one of her areas to decorate for our 2019 Christmas at Biltmore celebration.

The estate’s large traditional Nativity will be staged in the Salon this year, and according to Cristy, the set has been a major source of inspiration for her designs.

“I’ve planned special new surroundings that includes twinkling lights to resemble nighttime in Bethlehem,” Cristy said.

Biltmore designer holds ornaments she created
Cristy Leonard displays ornaments she created for the Salon tree

Cristy chose to deck the halls of the Salon’s main tree in brilliant peacock blues and greens with bright touches of gold. She added cherubs, gilded grapes, and grapevines to symbolize the prosperity and blessings of the season.

Christmas tree in Biltmore House Salon
Salon Christmas tree wound with gold fabric

As a finishing touch, Cristy swathed the tree in yards of gauzy golden fabric, echoing the look of the room’s iconic draped and tented ceiling.

Third Floor Living Hall

Staff favorites: Harpist playing in the Third Floor Living Hall
A harpist plays Christmas carols in the Third Floor Living Hall

During the Vanderbilt era, Third Floor Living Hall was a place for guests to relax in the evenings, share the events of the day, and perhaps read or catch up with friends.

Michelle Warren of Biltmore’s floral team created a child’s tree for this room, complete with dolls, toys, and wooden soldiers around the base, ready for the younger set to play with them while their parents indulged in a sing-along or a game of cards.

Humpty Dumpty toy under Christmas tree
A whimsical Humpty Dumpty and other toys under the Third Floor Living Hall Christmas tree

As you enter Third Floor Living Hall, look for a charming scene featuring a table set up with paper, ribbon, and tags, just as if Edith Vanderbilt were wrapping her gifts for the Christmas season!

Other 2019 Christmas at Biltmore highlights:

  • Grand Staircase
    • This elegant Christmas tree is centered under the Grand Staircase Chandelier, making it appear as though the four-story light is the tree topper.
  • Banquet Hall
    • From the 35-foot fresh Fraser fir at one end to the triple fireplaces at the other, the Banquet Hall is a traditional guest favorite and one of the most beloved rooms in Biltmore House.
  • Library
    • Themed around the idea of Christmas Traditions, the Library incorporates traditional colors such as gold, red, green, plaids, and a tartan print.
  • Oak Sitting Room
    • The colorful décor in rich jewel tones of red, cobalt, gold, and green is drawn from the room’s splendid Axminster—the only rug of English origin in Biltmore House.
  • Mrs. Vanderbilt’s Bedroom
    • The tree ornaments are inspired by the Vanderbilts’ courtship which took place in Paris. The room features a soft mix of lilac, amber, and cream colors drawn from the distinctive oval ceiling.
  • Main Kitchen
    • Look for a whimsical gingerbread replica of Biltmore House.

Christmas at Biltmore

Enjoy the daytime celebration November 1, 2019–January 5, 2020, and experience Candlelight Christmas Evenings through January 4, 2020.

Christmas Craft: Wine Cork Reindeer

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It’s always fun to add new holiday decorations to your overall design, and this season you can recreate a classic figure with a fresh, new twist. Wine Cork Reindeer made from corks and twigs are inexpensive and easy to make. And just like snowflakes, no two are alike.

Materials

  • (4) 2” Dry twigs
  • (1) 1” Dry twig
  • 2 Dry twigs that branch off
  • Raffia
  • Drill and 5/32 drill bit
  • Hot glue gun and glue sticks
  • 2 Wine corks
  • Small red bead
  • Green sheet moss

Instructions for Wine Cork Reindeer

  1. Drill 4 small holes into one side of a wine cork. These will hold the reindeer’s legs.
  2. Flip the wine cork over, and drill one more hole on the other side near the end of the cork. This will hold the reindeer’s neck.
  3. To make the head, take the second cork and drill a small hole near the end of it. Then flip it over, and drill two more holes on the other side.
  4. Add a dab of hot glue and then push a 2” dry twigs into each of the four holes in your first wine cork to make the reindeer’s legs.
  5. Add hot glue and a 1” dry twig in your second wine cork.
  6. Then attach the two corks together, creating the reindeer’s body.
  7. Next, add your reindeer’s antlers. Put hot glue in the top two holes of the head, and add the twigs that branch off.
  8. To really give your reindeer personality, add a small red bead for his nose, then tie a charm or bell on the raffia and hang it around the neck.

Create a small holiday herd of Wine Cork Reindeer and place them in a bed of moss, or hang several in your tree. These fun, festive reindeer are sure to add holiday cheer to any room in your home. Want to continue the fun? Our Frosted Lanterns make a beautiful backdrop glow for your reindeer herd.