Our Sparkling Wines Make New Year’s Shine! Posted on November 3, 2022 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton Biltmore sparkling wines make New Year’s shine–and they’re perfect for any other holiday or special occasion! Add Biltmore sparkling wines to all your holiday and New Year’s celebrations! “George and Edith Vanderbilt were known for their hospitality,” said Sharon Fenchak, Biltmore’s Winemaker. “And when it came to their holiday and New Year’s celebrations, they made sure to add even more sparkle, so to speak, for their guests to enjoy while visiting Biltmore.” We love to carry on Vanderbilt family traditions—and create new ones—by adding our sparkling wines to New Year’s celebrations along with favorite red, white, and rosé selections from our estate Winery. Here are Sharon’s helpful tips for serving and pairing sparkling wines: Serve sparkling wines like a pro Biltmore sparkling wines are characterized by fine, tiny bubbles Sparkling wines are best served at 33-40 degrees. Chill the bottle in the refrigerator prior to opening. The cold temperature helps preserve the bubbles when opening the bottle. To open sparkling wine, hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle. Loosen the cage and hold the cork. Gently twist the cork until you hear a whisper of a pop. Holding a towel over the cork when opening will help catch any spills that may occur. After opening, all sparkling wines begin to lose their bubbles, so it’s best to drink them as soon as possible. Biltmore bubbles add sparkle to any occasion Keep plenty of Biltmore bubbles on hand to help season the holiday with cheer! From easy appetizers and classic cocktails to decadent desserts, add extra sparkle to your New Year’s celebrations with the delightful handcrafted bubbles of Biltmore sparkling wines! Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Noir: Fruit-forward and refreshing with flavors of cherries and strawberries and a pretty pink holiday hue. Pairing suggestions: flounder, mahi-mahi, turkey, pound cake, brie cheese, and fresh fruit Easy appetizer to delight your guests: Kahlúa®-Pecan Brie Pas de Deux® Sec: Semi-sweet and bursting with tiny bubbles, this aromatic wine features the essence of orange blossom and flavors of wild strawberry and lemon. Pairing suggestions: fresh fruit, chocolate-covered strawberries, crème brulee, pumpkin pie Decadent dessert to grace your holiday table: Praline Pumpkin Pie Biltmore Estate® Château Reserve Blanc de Blancs: Our finest sparkling wine, handcrafted from exceptional Chardonnay grapes harvested in Biltmore’s own vineyard. Pairing suggestions: caviar, pâté, oysters on the half shell, aged asiago cheese, ceviche, and wedding cake Classic cocktail to toast the New Year: French Rose 75 Stock up on sparkling wines now for your New Year’s celebrations Surprise someone special with a gift basket filled with Biltmore sparkling wine, gourmet food, and other goodies. Just in time for New Year’s toasts and midnight munching, stock up on all your favorite Biltmore wines and gourmet foods in estate shops and online.
Biltmore Test Vineyard Offers a Grape Escape Posted on August 30, 2022 at 12:00 am.Written by Ellie Garst Our test vineyard, located below The Inn on Biltmore Estate®, offers an easy “grape escape!”Biltmore’s main vineyards are planted on the west side of the estate in an area not normally seen by guests. Opportunities to visit them are limited, but you can get a sneak peek at growing grapes by visiting our test vineyard. Plantings in the test vineyard Rows of vines (far left) show the location of the test vineyard between The Inn and the Winery. According to Philip Oglesby, Vineyard Supervisor, this small display area was planted by the Vineyard team in 2000 to offer guests at the Winery and The Inn an opportunity to see first-hand how Biltmore wine grapes are grown. There were two acres of plantings originally, but a small portion was removed to make room for the walking path between The Inn and Winery once The Inn was finished in 2001. “Cabernet Sauvignon is the grape of choice for the test vineyard because that varietal had already proved hardy in our main vineyards,” said Philip. “We have experimented with other varietals like Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah at times to see how a particular grape performed in our climate, but Cabernet Sauvignon is still the primary variety you’ll find in this little vineyard.” Discover each season in the test vineyard The test vineyard gives guests an opportunity to see how grapes are grown at Biltmore. Since the test vineyard was developed, guests have been able to see a small-scale version of the grape-growing process in each season, from caring for the vines in winter to bud break in spring and ripening fruit during the summer. Each fall, the grapes in this small vineyard are harvested for use in Biltmore wines. It typically takes Philip’s harvest crew of approximately 30 people one full day to pick the grapes by hand and bring them down to the crush dock behind the Winery. Protection from predators As the grapes ripen in our vineyards, the fruit must be protected from uninvited guests such as robins, geese, and turkeys. Today’s visitors will notice a fence around the vineyard—it was added to keep deer from damaging the plants and fruit. In addition to keeping the deer out, Philip’s crew places netting on the vines in August every year to prevent bird damage. “We have to keep birds—especially robins—out of the vineyard or else we would have nothing left there,” said Philip. “Birds aren’t usually a big deal for the west side vineyards during most years, and I honestly do not know why they like to pick on the little Test Vineyard so much!” For the main vineyards on the west side, Philip’s team has to contend with damage by geese (and turkeys, to a lesser extent), which can lead to fairly significant crop loss. “During years when there are fewer wild berries and seeds, I have noticed that smaller birds will also seek out grapes as an alternate food source on the west side, but this is not a frequent problem,” said Philip. Plan your own grape escape now! Enjoy Biltmore wine on the estate and at home. Visit Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, and see the test vineyard for yourself. Make it a real “grape escape” with overnight accommodations at The Inn, Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate, or one of our private historic Cottages on Biltmore Estate™. Featured image: The Inn on Biltmore Estate above the test vineyard
Biltmore Wines: Cheers for Each Tier! Posted on August 9, 2022 at 6:38 pm.Written by Jean Sexton All Biltmore wines are cheers-worthy, from our fine American Series and Limited Release options to our exceptional Reserve tiers and Antler Hill® vintages. Discover what makes our wines worth cheering about with an overview of each collection. Biltmore Estate® American Series Collection Our classic Biltmore Estate® American Series wines are approachable and feature classic varietal character. Look for the “Biltmore burgundy” capsule and a line drawing of Biltmore House on the label. Grapes for this collection are selected from leading growing regions across the nation and handcrafted at our estate winery in Asheville, NC. Each wine captures the true character of the varietal, resulting in an outstanding taste that provides a perfect pairing for any occasion. Example: Biltmore Estate® Cabernet Sauvignon is a great option in our American Series collection. This smooth wine featuring lush cherry flavors and soft, lingering tannins was awarded 95 points in the prestigious San Francisco International Wine Competition. Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Collection Biltmore Estate® Limited Release wines, distinguished by a matte black capsule and black-and-gold label, are perfect for sipping by the glass or in craft cocktails. Crafted in smaller lots, these exceptional wines include some of our most intriguing varietals and blends that showcase our winemaker’s skillful artistry in each bottle. Limited Release wines are exclusively available on the estate, online, or through the Vanderbilt Wine Club®. Example: Our highly aromatic Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Chenin Blanc balances off-dry citrus flavors and a lingering sweet finish. Biltmore® Reserve Collection Our Biltmore® Reserve label honors fine vintages handcrafted with grapes from the estate’s vineyard in Asheville, NC. The collection is distinguished by blue foil capsules and a label showcasing elements of the Vanderbilt family’s table linens and place settings. An invitation to dine with the Vanderbilts at their magnificent home in Asheville, North Carolina, assured you of enjoying gracious hospitality paired with fine wines. Today, their enduring legacy inspires our winemaker to handcraft each wine in our Biltmore® Reserve Collection from grapes grown at the estate’s own vineyard or from local partners in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Example: We handcraft our lovely Biltmore® Reserve Rosé North Carolina 2022 to offer delicate sweetness with hints of spice and white pepper. Approachable and easy to drink, the style is reminiscent of classic old-world rosés. Vanderbilt Reserve® collection Each outstanding Vanderbilt Reserve® wine bears the appellation and vintage of its origin. This collection is distinguished by red foil capsules and a label design based on George Vanderbilt’s monogramed china and table linens. These distinguished vintages reflect George Vanderbilt’s interest in collecting fine wines from around the world to share with his friends and family at Biltmore. For Vanderbilt Reserve® wines, our winemaker selects outstanding fruit from partner vineyards in some of the nation’s finest growing regions and oversees the process of handcrafting each one. Each of these wines bears the appellation and vintage of its origin. Example: Our Vanderbilt Reserve® Sonoma County Pinot Noir 2020 showcases its versatile, food-friendly character with inviting aromas of cranberry, vanilla, and brown butter that meld into flavors of pomegranate, red currant, and hints of spice enhanced by aging in French and American oak barrels. Enjoy with duck confit, mushroom pâté, dark meat poultry, and Gruyère cheese fondue. Antler Hill® Collection Handcrafted with premium vintages from the finest growing regions, Antler Hill® wines offer extraordinary taste and excellent aging potential. The handsome label is reproduced from a sporting print in George Vanderbilt’s collection. Antler Hill® wines pair the passion of Biltmore winemaker Sharon Fenchak with the premium harvests and vintages from our small partner vineyards with whom we’ve cultivated long-standing relationships in the nation’s finest wine regions. Each wine is handcrafted with exceptional skill to showcase the varietal, the vintage, and to honor the Vanderbilt family’s heritage of gracious hospitality. Example: From smooth tropical notes to a bright citrus finish, our exceptional Antler Hill® Chardonnay Carneros 2020 offers crisp layers of refreshing un-oaked flavor achieved by careful aging for 12–24 months in stainless steel tanks under the direction of our estate winemaker. Biltmore Estate® Sparkling Collection Each of our sparkling wines is carefully handcrafted in the traditional méthode champenoise, including our exceptional Biltmore Estate® Chateau Reserve Blanc de Blancs created with estate-grown Chardonnay grapes. At Biltmore’s Winery in Asheville, NC, we craft both still and sparkling wines. It’s unusual to offer both—most wineries specialize in one or the other—but Biltmore has a long history of doing the unexpected. All our sparkling wines are handcrafted in the traditional méthode champenoise, a process that requires a secondary fermentation in the bottle, and is vital for developing the delicate bubbles that characterize outstanding sparkling wines. Example: Dry and delicate with tiny mousse-like bubbles, Biltmore Estate® Château Reserve Blanc de Blancs North Carolina 2019 is our finest sparkling wine–and it’s handcrafted from our own estate-grown Chardonnay grapes! Learn more about Biltmore wines Learn more about Biltmore wines with a complimentary tasting at the Winery, then enjoy your favorites by the glass or bottle at the adjacent Wine Bar. We invite you to learn more about Biltmore wines by visiting our Winery in Asheville, NC, to taste them for yourself! Your Biltmore Estate admission includes access to Antler Hill Village & Winery, and we encourage you to enjoy a complimentary tasting at the Winery during your visit. Want another great way to discover our wines? Become a member of the Vanderbilt Wine Club® and enjoy seasonal shipments of our handcrafted wines delivered directly to your door. Watch and learn… Discover even more about our Biltmore Estate tier wines.
George Vanderbilt: A Thoughtful Wine Collector Posted on August 1, 2022 at 12:00 am.Written by Ellie Garst George Vanderbilt was a thoughtful wine collector, whether at home or abroad. Taste and style were two hallmarks of his life, and both are reflected throughout Biltmore—his private country estate in Asheville, North Carolina. Visually stunning and technologically advanced, Biltmore House is a testament to Vanderbilt’s vision. A Thoughtful Collector George Vanderbilt’s legacy of gracious hospitality lives on with Biltmore wines handcrafted from grapes grown in the estate’s own vineyard or selected from trusted west coast partners George Vanderbilt was well-known as a collector, travelling the world gathering art, sculpture, furniture, and books. He also enjoyed wine, frequently purchasing it abroad and bringing cases of wine back to his home in Asheville to share with his family and friends. Vanderbilt’s gracious hospitality was legendary, and a visit to his home was characterized by the best in comfort, entertainment, and attention to every detail, including the wines that graced his table and delighted his guests. Wine cellars don’t have to be stuffy–evaluate your space and your lifestyle for options! Wine research at Biltmore In 2008, wine consultant John Hailman visited Biltmore to look at Vanderbilt’s wine cellar and the vintages stored there, and to review wine-related notes and correspondence from the Vanderbilt era. Having been a wine columnist for the Washington Post, with his work nationally syndicated for more than a decade, Hailman is considered one of the foremost authorities on wine. In 2006, he wrote Thomas Jefferson on Wine, an examination of Jefferson’s influence as a wine connoisseur and collector in the early days of the nation. A portion of an archival receipt for a wine and spirits order to be delivered to Biltmore House Through Hailman’s research, we now have a better understanding of George Vanderbilt as a thoughtful wine collector. Archival correspondence, notes, and receipts suggest that Vanderbilt was well-versed in wines, purchasing those he enjoyed sharing. Vanderbilt was also a practical buyer, preferring high quality vintages at reasonable prices, such as wines from Chateau Pontet-Canet which is still in business today in the Bordeaux wine region of France. “Good enough for anybody” Our handcrafted Biltmore bubbles make any occasion more special Vanderbilt’s trusted wine purveyor Alexander Morten was known for his excellent taste and recommendations, and would have been a worthy provisioner for the Vanderbilt lifestyle. George Vanderbilt relied upon Morten’s suggestions and his outstanding contacts in the industry. In one letter dated February 14, 1914, Morten advises Vanderbilt on a particular vintage for an upcoming ball, suggesting: “As to Champagne for a ball:- I can strongly recommend Pierlot 1906. This is a good, sound vintage wine, price $32.50, and is used almost exclusively by many of our customers for dances and entertainments of that ilk. If you have the slightest hesitation, however, I can recommend Pol Roger 1906; price $36. We also have Krug, Clicquot and Pommery of 1906 and 1904; but these are more expensive. The Pierlot is good enough for anybody.” This letter is particularly poignant, as George Vanderbilt passed away in Washington, DC, just a month after he received this letter. We don’t know what type of ball the Vanderbilts might have been planning, but the preparations were apparently abandoned after Mr. Vanderbilt’s unexpected death. “You have only to examine the amount and variety of crystal and stemware in the Biltmore collection—glasses for every possible occasion and type of beverage—to see the importance of wines and spirits as an integral part of dining and entertaining,” said Lauren Henry, curator of interpretation. Delicate crystal glasses with George Vanderbilt’s monogram on the Banquet Hall table “Knowing that George Vanderbilt collected and enjoyed wine—and served it to his guests—forges a very real and logical connection between the Vanderbilts and the wine business their descendants have developed and continue to nurture today,” Lauren said. Savor Biltmore Wines Enjoy Biltmore wines while visiting the estate or savor them at home Be sure to visit Biltmore’s Winery and enjoy a complimentary tasting of some of our most popular wines. Relax and enjoy our wines by the bottle or glass at the adjacent Wine Bar, then stock up on your favorite vintages at estate shops or online. Featured blog image: John Singer Sargent portrait of George Vanderbilt paired with a selection of our fine Biltmore wines, including our Antler Hill series
Discover Biltmore’s Working Winery Posted on March 23, 2022 at 1:48 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Discover Biltmore’s working winery and learn how we handcraft our award-winning Biltmore wines. Here, the process begins long before the first grape is harvested; it begins with planting seeds of thought, from there our vision takes root and the rest is history! Biltmore’s Wine History A portion of an archival receipt for a wine and spirits order to be delivered to Biltmore House George Vanderbilt was known as a thoughtful collector of wines who wove an appreciation for fine wines into the fabric of the Biltmore experience, making it part of his legacy for gracious living. While Mr. Vanderbilt introduced the pleasures of wine to Biltmore, it was his grandson, William A.V. Cecil, who had the vision and determination to develop vineyards and a winery at his family’s estate in the early 1970s. Creating Biltmore’s working winery Experience an award-winning portfolio of red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines at Biltmore Winery. In 1983, renovation began on the estate’s original dairy barn to convert it into a state-of-the-art winery, complete with production facilities, a tasting room, and a wine shop. Bill Cecil, Jr., son of William A.V. Cecil and great-grandson of George Vanderbilt, assumed a leadership role in overseeing the project. “It wasn’t easy to turn an old barn into a new working winery,” said Bill, “but we knew it was important to keep the integrity of the original structure, and that helped us make each decision along the way.” Biltmore Winemaker Sharon Fenchak Winemaker Sharon Fenchak draws wine from a barrel with a type of syphon called a wine thief in the Barrel Room at Biltmore Winery. Since the Biltmore Winery opened in 1985, we attribute much of our success to our talented winemakers: Philippe Jourdain, Bernard Delille, and Sharon Fenchak, who joined the Winery team as assistant winemaker in 1999 and was promoted to winemaker in 2003. Sharon now oversees Biltmore Wines as winemaker and vice president. Just like her predecessors, Sharon remains committed to handcrafting Biltmore Wines with the philosophy of keeping each wine true to varietal character, food-friendly, and consistent from vintage to vintage. Steel tanks used in the winemaking process at Biltmore “Tastes change over time,” said Sharon. “Our wines are crafted in a classic style, but we keep our production facility up-to-date and we take advantage of technology and trends that help us improve our skills. It’s very important that we constantly learn more about what our guests enjoy so we can continue to produce wines they seek out here at the estate or savor in their own homes.” Biltmore’s vineyard According to Philip Oglesby, Vineyard Supervisor, Biltmore’s harvest season begins in late August with early-ripening white varietals such as Chardonnay. Vineyard crews pick grapes by hand throughout September and into October, giving the red varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc more time to mature. Vineyard crews picking grapes by hand in Biltmore’s vineyard on the west side of the estate “Within hours of being harvested, the grapes grown in our own vineyard on the west side of the estate are brought to the crush dock behind the Winery,” said Philip. “As the next phase of the winemaking process begins, we look forward to learning which wines will be created—especially those that earn the Biltmore® Reserve label that honors exceptional North Carolina vintages from Biltmore and our local growing partners.” Although most wineries specialize in either still or sparkling wines, we handcraft both here at the estate—just another distinction that sets Biltmore’s working winery apart. Cheers to our working winery and our handcrafted wines! Make a reservation for your complimentary tasting at Biltmore’s working winery! Join us at the Winery to enjoy the fruits of our labor! Experience our Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting in the Tasting Room, take a deeper dive into our working winery on the Farm to Table Tour and Taste, or simply relax at the Wine Bar with any of our wines by the glass or bottle. Purchase Biltmore wines at the estate and online—or become a member of the Vanderbilt Wine Club and enjoy having our wines shipped directly to your door each season.
Meet The Winemaker Who Handcrafts Biltmore Wines Posted on February 24, 2022 at 3:10 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Meet our winemaker who handcrafts Biltmore wines here at the estate in Asheville, North Carolina. With old-world skill and new-world passion for her craft, Sharon Fenchak and her team are taking Biltmore’s winemaking philosophy of creating approachable vintages to new heights in the industry. Meet Sharon Fenchak, Executive Winemaker for Biltmore In addition to handcrafting Biltmore’s award-winning wines, Sharon Fenchak’s responsibilities include oversight of Biltmore’s vineyard, partnerships with local and west coast partners, and the production team that creates more than 150,000 cases of wine annually. After high school, Sharon joined the United States Army as a Communications Specialist. While stationed in Vicenza, Italy, she discovered a new appreciation and a growing passion for wine—particularly the sparkling moscato for which the region is noted. Once she returned to the states, Sharon earned a bachelor’s degree in food science from Penn State University and a master’s degree in the same field from the University of Georgia at Athens. She worked as an assistant winemaker at Habersham Winery in Baldwin, Georgia, then became the winemaker for Chestnut Mountain Winery in Braselton, Georgia. In 1999, Sharon joined Biltmore’s winery production team as assistant winemaker, learning from veteran French winemaker Bernard Delille and leading in-house research and development for new grape-growing technology and testing grape-production methods. Sharon and Bernard shared a philosophy of creating high-quality wines that reflect true varietal character while still being food-friendly and approachable. Sharon was promoted to Winemaker in 2003 and continued handcrafting high-quality wines worthy of the finest Biltmore traditions of taste and style. When Bernard retired in 2018, Sharon became Executive Winemaker for Biltmore. Enjoy Biltmore wine on the estate and at home. Try Biltmore wines for yourself If you’re visiting Biltmore, your daytime admission ticket includes a complimentary tasting at the Winery in Antler Hill Village. Once you’ve discovered some new favorites, enjoy them by the glass or bottle at the Wine Bar or other relaxing locations around the estate. Purchase our award-winning wines in estate shops, close to home with our Wine Finder, by phone at 800-968-0558, or online.
Taste Passion And Perseverance In This Chardonnay! Posted on December 21, 2021 at 5:07 pm.Written by Jean Sexton “You’ll taste our passion for perseverance in this new Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay North Carolina 2020 Barrel Select wine,” said Sharon Fenchak, Biltmore winemaker. From grape to glass Vineyard crews picking grapes by hand in Biltmore’s vineyard on the west side of the estate “The grapes for this smooth, buttery Chardonnay were carefully nurtured by Philip Oglesby, Vineyard Supervisor, and his crew,” Sharon said. “From planting and tending the vines to caring for them throughout the growing season and harvesting the grapes by hand in late September and early October, the vineyard team ensured that we had the best possible fruit to begin this project.” Biltmore-grown barrels These barrels are coopered for the Winery from Biltmore-grown oak According to Sharon, the grapes aren’t the only part of this wine that represents the estate. “Once this medium-bodied golden Chardonnay was ready to be fermented and aged, we transferred it into a group of very special barrels,” said Sharon. For the first time in the estate’s winemaking history, wood from oak trees that were grown on the estate was shipped to Seguin Moreau, an artisan barrel-making firm. Now anchored in Napa, California, the company originated in France in 1838 and continues to provide high-quality barrels to the wine industry today. Chardonnay tasting notes and pairings “It is remarkable to have Biltmore-grown oak coopered into custom barrels for aging our own Chardonnay,” Sharon said. Now, in addition to having our grapes reflect our Blue Ridge Mountain terroir, the very barrels we use for aging also echo the unique characteristics of weather and soil found here.” After aging for 12 months in Biltmore oak barrels, this Chardonnay developed a delightful nose of caramel, coffee, and grilled pineapple, plus pleasant hints of oak that continue on the palate along with flavors of Meyer lemon, vanilla, and kiwi ahead of a lingering finish of honey and spice. Savor our outstanding Biltmore wines with a grazing board at your next gathering To further enhance the rich notes of this exceptional Chardonnay, Sharon suggests warming it slightly to around 60 degrees, then gathering friends together to savor a glass with a grazing platter featuring blue cheese drizzled with local honey, pistachios, and smoked trout dip. Other excellent pairings include seafood cioppino, Caribbean-style red snapper, and mussels with a butter-and-garlic sauce and plenty of toasted baguettes for dipping. Passion and perseverance The label for this distinctive Chardonnay features an original watercolor painting of Biltmore’s vineyard Sharon and the wine production team have called Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay North Carolina 2020 Barrel Select wine “the taste of 2020 in a glass.” “That’s not a negative attribute,” Sharon noted. “It really refers to the fact that 2020 was a challenging year in many ways, but even so, we poured our passion, determination, and perseverance into this wine, and we see it as a tribute to North Carolina grape growing.” For the label, Lisa Vogel, Art Director, painted an original watercolor to distinguish this one-of-a-kind wine. “I chose to include an iconic oak tree in the estate’s vineyard,” said Lisa, “as a visual way to represent the grapes and the barrels that earned this outstanding wine our exclusive Biltmore® Reserve Barrel Select designation.” Join the Vanderbilt Wine Club® now to experience this Chardonnay Vanderbilt Wine Club members receive a shipment of Biltmore wines each season, plus access to exclusive vintages, virtual tasting events, and more. This wine will be released exclusively to our Vanderbilt Wine Club® members. Explore membership options at the Winery or online, and stock up on your favorite Biltmore wines at biltmoreshop.com.
Taste The Terroir Of Biltmore Wines Posted on November 22, 2021 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton When you taste the terroir of Biltmore wines, you’re tasting some of the oldest terroir in the world in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Terroir refers to the complete natural environment in which the grapes for wine are grown and in which the wines themselves are produced and aged. It includes factors such as the soil, topography, and climate. Long established among European winegrowers, the concept of terroir is becoming more important in the U.S. and other nations. Interestingly, there is no exact translation of terroir from its French language origins—it loosely means “a sense of place,” and can be as broad as an entire region or as narrow as a few rows in a specific vineyard. What is the terroir of Biltmore wines? Grapes ripening in Biltmore’s vineyard Biltmore’s acreage—including the vineyard—is classified as a Low and Intermediate Mountain System between 1,400–4,600 feet above sea level with soil influenced by elevation, slope aspect, exposure, and vegetation. As part of the ancient Appalachian Mountain chain that formed 480 billion years ago, the Blue Ridge Mountains feature lower elevations and a soft, weathered appearance that shows much they’ve worn away over the years. When George Vanderbilt’s grandson William A.V. Cecil envisioned developing an estate vineyard and winery, he felt it should be possible to grow grapes at Biltmore. In his book Lady on the Hill, Cecil wrote that “Asheville was about the same latitude as Gibraltar in the Mediterranean, and with an altitude between 2,100 and 2,500 feet, the fields of the estate would enjoy warm days and cool nights in the summer.” West coast advantages Partner vineyards in California Unlike the conditions of the Mediterranean and other classic grape-growing regions, however, the climate of Western North Carolina is notoriously unpredictable, averaging 47 inches of rain per year—more than twice the average amount that falls in Napa Valley. In addition to a drier climate, California growers have another advantage when it comes to terroir: the geologic age of the area is much “younger” than that of the east coast. Wine grapes typically fare better in lower-nutrient, more alkaline soils preferably with gravelly or rocky substrates. The idea is that the plants’ roots will grow deeper in such circumstances to seek nutrients and water, allowing the plant and eventually the fruit to express the unique characteristics of the specific location that the grower has chosen. “Our west coast vineyard partners like those in Cienega Valley have the benefits of a maritime climate and rocky soils that create more intensity and richness in the grapes,” said Jill Whitfield, Senior Wine Manager. “They may have lower yields there, but flavors develop more fully.” Climate affects terroir Grapes being picked by hand in Biltmore’s vineyard “Soil and climate have significant impact on grape quality, but climate is the more important factor at Biltmore,” said Philip Oglesby, Vineyard Supervisor. Grapes can be more reactive to certain weather conditions than some crops, but when the weather is right in Western North Carolina, the fruit produced in our vineyards is exceptional.” Try any of our Biltmore Reserve wines, such as Biltmore Reserve® Cabernet Sauvignon North Carolina, handcrafted from estate-grown grapes, and you’ll taste not only the character of the varietal, but the distinctive influence of our unique Blue Ridge Mountain terroir. Fun Fact The state soil of North Carolina is known as Cecil soil. Named for Cecil County, Maryland where the soil type was first documented rather than the family name of George Vanderbilt’s descendants, it is nonetheless a delightful coincidence that Biltmore’s vineyard and Winery are rooted in Cecil soil! Purchase Biltmore® Reserve wines now and taste the terroir! Only wines handcrafted from estate-grown grapes earn our Biltmore® Reserve label Find Biltmore wines, including Biltmore® Reserve wines, in estate shops and online.
Pair Biltmore Wine with Cookies for Holiday Cheer Posted on November 4, 2021 at 2:23 pm.Written by Jean Sexton ‘Tis the season to pair Biltmore wine with your favorite cookies to create plenty of holiday cheer! Pairing wine and cookies “Whether you’re baking at home, participating in a neighborhood cookie swap, or sending sweets to someone far away, our wine and cookie pairing ideas are the perfect way to pour on the cheer this holiday season,” said Courtney Miller, Director of Biltmore’s Winery and Vanderbilt Wine Club®. Pour on the cheer by pairing Biltmore wines with cookies this holiday season Wine and cookie pairings In the recipes below, we’ve paired each cookie with Biltmore wine to make it even easier to match the distinctive flavors with wines that complement them. “Go ahead and sweeten the season by purchasing Biltmore wines,” advised Courtney, “then bake some cookies, or snag similar styles from your local bakery; we won’t tell!” Pour on the holiday cheer According to Courtney, you generally choose a wine that’s a little sweeter than the treat with which you plan to pair it, but richer, heavier sweets can stand up to dryer wines. “Either way, you’ll be ready to savor a sophisticated treat for the holidays,” Courtney said. “And if you upgrade Santa’s usual glass of milk to a glass of Biltmore wine, I’m pretty sure he’ll add you to his ‘nice’ list!” Honey Gingersnap Cookies Spice up your holiday wine and cookie pairings by serving Honey Gingersnaps with Biltmore Estate® Riesling! Heidi Badger, Pastry Sous Chef at Cedric’s® Tavern, developed this recipe. “These honey gingersnaps are soft, tender, and nicely spiced, especially if you use freshly grated ginger. The honey flavor is very subtle,” said Heidi. Chef Heidi recommends serving these traditional holiday favorites with lightly sweet wines such as our delightful Biltmore Estate® Riesling. Yield: approximately 3 dozen cookiesPreparation Time: 15 minutesTotal Time: 1½-2 hours (includes 1-hour chill time) Ingredients8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature½ cup sugar½ cup honey1 large egg2 cups flour2 teaspoon baking soda½ teaspoon salt1 teaspoon ground ginger or freshly grated ginger1 teaspoon cinnamon1 teaspoon ground cloves MethodIn a large bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and honey until fluffy. Mix in egg and set aside. In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Stir into wet ingredients until combined. Chill dough for 1 hour or until slightly firm. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place onto parchment-lined cookie sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned around the edges. Allow to cool for 2 minutes on the cookie sheet before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling. Flourless Fudgy Chocolate Mudslide Cookies Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside–these chocolate cookies pair perfectly with our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Petite Sirah-Syrah. “These cookies have a rich, intense chocolate flavor, especially when enhanced by the coffee liqueur,” said Angie Chan, Pastry Chef, Deerpark & Lioncrest. “They feature a crispy outer shell that reminds me of meringue and a fudgy, soft interior. Because the recipe is already flourless, the cookies can be made gluten free.” For a match made in heaven, Chef Angie suggests pairing these rich chocolate cookies with red wines like our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Petite Sirah-Syrah. Yield: approximately 2 dozen cookiesPreparation Time: 15 minutesTotal Time: 1½-2 hours (includes 1-hour chill time) Ingredients1 cup chocolate chips1 cup cocoa powder3 egg whites3 cups powdered sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extract2 tablespoons coffee liqueur or coffee syrup*1–2 tablespoons milk *Coffee syrup: dissolve 2 teaspoons instant coffee or espresso powder with 1/3 cup sugar in 1/3 cup hot water. Allow to cool and use the same amount noted in the recipe. MethodIn a large bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and cocoa powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg whites, coffee liqueur, and vanilla extract until lightly foamy. Combine wet and dry mixtures and stir until well mixed. Dough will be very thick and sticky once it comes together. Add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to help with mixing, if needed.Add in the chocolate chips and refrigerate the dough for about 1 hour.Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and coat with a thin layer of non-stick vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking.Scoop 1 tablespoon worth of dough and place onto prepared cookie sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the top is slightly cracked and dry. Allow to cool for 2 minutes on the cookie sheet before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling. Lemon-Cranberry Shortbread Cookies Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Orange Muscat is a favorite for many guests, and it pairs perfectly with our Lemon-Cranberry Shortbread Cookies! For an updated version of a classic treat, Chef Angie also created Lemon-Cranberry Shortbread Cookies with bright hints of citrus and the tart tang of cranberries. “There’s nothing more perfect for the holidays than shortbread cookie like this with fresh flavors to lighten the richness of the recipe,” Chef Angie said. “In addition, they pair perfectly with the hints of tropical fruit in our lightly sweet Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Orange Muscat. Yield: about 2 dozenPreparation Time: about 15 minutesTotal Time: about 2 hours (includes 1-hour chill time) Ingredients1¾ cup all-purpose flour2/3 cup granulated sugar8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature2 teaspoons lemon extract (or fresh-squeezed lemon juice as substitute)1 teaspoon baking soda2 tablespoons milk1 tablespoon lemon zest½ cup dried cranberries¼ teaspoon salt MethodPreheat oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, cream the sugar, butter, and lemon extract together until light and fluffy.Add flour, baking soda, and salt and stir until just combined. Add lemon zest and milk, mix well. Gently fold in the dried cranberries. Mixture will be crumbly.Work dough by hand into a ball and then roll into a log about 2-3 inches thick. Wrap with parchment or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.Once dough is chilled and firm, use a sharp knife to carefully slice dough into about ½-inch pieces and place onto parchment-lined cookie sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart.Bake for approximately 11-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Allow to cool for 2 minutes on the cookie sheet before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling. Enjoy Biltmore wine and cookies this holiday season! Pair Biltmore wines and cookies for holiday gatherings, or indulge in a spot of solo sipping and snacking during the season! Whether you’re pairing them with cookies, entertaining friends, or simply enjoying a peaceful glass by a crackling fire, you’ll find all our award-winning Biltmore wines in our estate shops, online, and close to home with our Wine Finder. For a special gift for yourself and others, consider joining our Vanderbilt Wine Club®. You’ll enjoy hand-selected Biltmore wines delivered to your door each season, plus all the other privileges membership brings.
Select Biltmore gifts they’re sure to savor! Posted on October 28, 2021 at 8:01 pm.Written by Jean Sexton This season, select Biltmore gifts that your recipients are sure to savor! Let our estate experts in holiday hospitality help you find everything from a thoughtful thank-you to perfect pairings and more. We asked Natalie Hackney, Vice President of Retail, and Alisha Forester, Wine Sales Director, for recommendations on selecting Biltmore gifts for everyone you want to delight during your seasonal celebrations. Here are some of their personal favorites: Ideas for her Give her special gifts–including our award-winning wines–from Biltmore this holiday season! “For all the ladies on your gift list this season, we’ve got everything from award-winning Biltmore wines to estate-inspired jewelry, elegant handbags, and more,” said Natalie. Vanderbilt Reserve® Virginia Viognier CRISLU Biltmore House Necklace Biltmore Red Sequin Backpack by Loungefly Ideas for him Surprise the men in your life with special gifts from Biltmore to celebrate the season. “If you’re looking for gifts for guys during the holidays, consider a mix of Biltmore wines, gourmet foods, and a selection of our delicious seasonings, rubs, and sauces,” Alisha advised. Vanderbilt Reserve® Dry Creek Valley Merlot Biltmore® Gourmet Foods Biltmore® Wassail Spice Blends Fun for kids Biltmore Sparkling Grape Juice is perfect for the kids on your list (or anyone who prefers a no-alcohol option). “We’ve got so many ideas for the young, and the young at heart, that it’s hard to choose!” said Natalie. “But the following list is a fun selection filled with estate-related items that many ages can enjoy.” Biltmore Sparkling Grape Juice Cedric the St. Bernard Stuffed Animal Biltmore Backyard Journal For the foodies All the foodies on your list are sure to love delicious pairings with Biltmore wines and gourmet goodies. “The holidays offer so many opportunities for foodies that it’s easy to give gifts of good taste with perfect pairings of Biltmore wines, serving accessories, and gourmet delights,” Alisha said. Thanksgiving Wine Trio Biltmore® Grown products Biltmore Jams, Honeys, and Syrups Delight wine enthusiasts The Hunt Red Blend Sonoma County and makes a perfect partner for hearty holiday recipes like beef brisket. “We know how important fine vintages are to wine enthusiasts, and these are wines you’ll want to share with those who appreciate the craft of winemaking. As for a gift membership to our Vanderbilt Wine Club®, your recipient will thank you all year round!” said Natalie. The Hunt Red Blend Sonoma County Winemaker’s Trio Vanderbilt Wine Club® Membership Biltmore gifts under $50 Biltmore Masterpiece Collection Red and White Christmas Wines make a perfect gift for someone special. “In this category, we’ve got some delightful wines that make great gifts,” said Alisha. “The three I’m recommending are lightly sweet and pair perfectly with holiday desserts, as well as being a thoughtful way to thank your host for including you in a seasonal celebration.” Biltmore® Century Sweet Red Wine Biltmore® Masterpiece Collection Christmas Wine Duo Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Orange Muscat Biltmore gifts under $100 Handcrafted with premium vintages from the finest growing regions, Antler Hill® wines offer extraordinary taste and excellent aging potential. The handsome labels are reproduced from a sporting print in George Vanderbilt’s collection. “If you want to give someone a very special gift during the season, our Antler Hill® wines are truly extraordinary. You can savor them now, or allow them to mature and deepen with time,” Natalie said. Antler Hill® Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Antler Hill® Rockpile Zinfandel Antler Hill® Carneros Pinot Noir Gifts for Biltmore enthusiasts Share the gift of Biltmore wines this holiday season! “This is a special category,” said Alisha, “because these are the folks who love Biltmore in every season! We’ve selected some wonderful wines that they’re sure to savor, whether giving or receiving them as special gifts.” Biltmore Estate® Pinot Grigio Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Chenin Blanc Biltmore® Reserve North Carolina Cabernet Sauvignon Season the holidays with cheer! With Biltmore wines, all your holiday gatherings are seasoned with cheer! In addition to these ideas, find more inspiration and stock up on award-winning Biltmore wines for all your celebrations with our Seasoned with Cheer guide to holiday hospitality.