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Perfect Pairings: Red Wine and Chocolate at Biltmore
Our Wines 01/07/20
Written By Jean Sexton
If you’re looking for a match made in heaven, look no farther than the Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting offered daily at Biltmore’s Winery.
How it works
“Pairing red wines with chocolates is an exciting way to discover nuances in both flavors,” said Les Norman, one of several knowledgeable Winery hosts who guide guests through the tasting.
“Biltmore has partnered with French Broad Chocolates to provide several different delectable chocolates to pair with some of our premium Biltmore wines,” Les said. “In some cases, this local artisan chocolate company that specializes in bean-to-bar products has created a new flavor to match specific characteristics in a certain wine.”
Getting started
Les likes to begin the tasting with a bit of background about Biltmore Winery and the award-winning wines handcrafted there. He offers guests a fascinating glimpse into the estate’s vineyards, production methods, and winemaking philosophy under the direction of Winemaker Sharon Fenchak.
Once he sets the scene, Les describes the process of tasting wines, and has participants take a fun jellybean “test” to better understand how smell and taste affect sensory perceptions.
Pairing red wines and chocolates
“Now we’re ready to pair our red Biltmore wines with chocolates!” Les declares.
Les makes sure guests take time to savor the bouquet of each wine and understand its flavor profile as they taste the possibilities.
He offers interesting details about viscosity and alcohol content, effortlessly blending his extensive knowledge of wines with the delightful pairings.
The tasting continues with amazing pairings of some of our premium red wines with exceptional chocolate truffles crafted by locally owned French Broad Chocolates.
Some truffles work well with several of the wines, so be sure to save a sip or two in each glass!
Discover the delights of red wine and chocolate
Our Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting is offered daily at the Winery at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. The cost is $55 per person, and capacity is limited to 10 guests for each one-hour event.
Advance reservations are strongly recommended for these popular daily tastings. To reserve, you must have a daytime ticket, a Biltmore Annual Pass, or an overnight stay booked at one of our properties. Guests must be 21 years of age and older with a valid ID to attend this or any other specialty wine experience.
To reserve your spot, call 1800-543-2961 or visit any Guest Services location on the estate.
I can’t wait to visit and participate in the wine and chocolate tasting! Several friends and I plan on a day trip soon. ?
Thank you, Linda! We hope you and your friends have a wonderful time at Biltmore’s Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting!
How do we reserve a tasting?! I would love to do this when my mom comes to visit next month. Also, I read somewhere that kiddos can join on the fun with grape juice?? *crossing fingers*
Hey, Jennifer! To make reservations for a Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting, call 1-800-211-9803 or visit any Guest Services location on the estate. While children may enjoy grape juice during our regular complimentary tasting, all guests must be 21 or older to attend our specialty experiences such as the Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting.
What does the complimentary wine-tasting event involve? Length of time? Number of wines tasted? Chocolates or cheeses or other bits? If I purchase the Red Wine and Chocolate tasting, do I make reservations for both? Headed your way with three other adults. Thank you
Dear Donna,
Thank you for your questions. You’ll need to make reservations for the complimentary tasting at the Winery on the day of your visit. You may do so in person at the Winery or by visiting this page and filling out the form: biltmore.com/winetasting. You will have an opportunity to taste several of our wines during your reserved time.
Is there a substitute for alcohol based wine on this tour?
Dear Ashley,
Thank you for your question. We offer Biltmore grape juice as an alternative to wine for the complimentary tasting in the Tasting Room. To have Biltmore grape juice available during the Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting, guests should request that accommodation prior to the beginning of the program.