Menu Makeover: Updating a 1904 Thanksgiving meal Posted on October 18, 2022 at 8:24 am.Written by Jean Sexton For a complete menu makeover of the Vanderbilt family’s 1904 Thanksgiving meal, we asked Estate Executive Chef Mark DeMarco to update the dishes recorded in Biltmore’s Menu Book for today’s tastes. Menu makeover for a food-focused holiday Biltmore’s archival menu book dated Saturday, November 12, 1904 “Thanksgiving is a food-focused holiday,” said Lauren Henry, Curator of Interpretation, “and that tradition is as true today as it was in 1904 when George and Edith Vanderbilt celebrated the holiday with a multi-course dinner for family and guests.” According to Lauren, Biltmore’s archives include a handwritten menu for the 1904 Thanksgiving dinner that features time-honored favorites like turkey, ham, and sweet potatoes, plus more unusual offerings such as braised calves’ brains. “While some of those dishes don’t sound as appealing today, they were the height of elegant dining during the Gilded Age,” Lauren said. In addition, the original holiday menu topped out at eight courses. That seems like a lot of food to modern diners, but Lauren noted that the portions were fairly small, and it was also common for a formal dinner of the era to last two hours or more. Menu makeover: easy appetizers Elegant and easy, make these salmon rillettes a day in advance and chill them until you’re ready to serve. The Vanderbilts’ 1904 celebration began with oysters on the half shell, followed by “Consomme Royal” and broiled Spanish mackerel. For a more modern adaptation, Chef DeMarco kept the seafood theme with an appetizer of Salmon Rillettes. Salmon Rillettes Recipe: Ingredients: 8 ounces fresh salmon 6 ounces smoked salmon, minced 1 large shallot, minced 3 tablespoons chive, minced 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 cups white wine Salt and pepper to taste Baguette for serving Instructions: In a small pot, add fresh salmon and minced shallots, and cover with white wine. Bring to a simmer over medium heat; do not boil. Allow to cook for 4 minutes or until the middle is opaque. Remove mixture from the pot and cool in refrigerator for an hour or until cold. Discard white wine. Place cooked salmon and shallot in a large bowl and flake into bite-sized pieces. Add smoked salmon, chives, and 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise; mix gently until combined. Season with salt and pepper and serve on toasted or grilled baguette. Wine pairing suggestion: Savor your salmon rillettes with our Biltmore® Reserve North Carolina Chardonnay—it’s a perfect complement for this rich, savory appetizer and a wonderful way to welcome family and friends to the table! Pair traditional roast turkey with Biltmore Reserve North Carolina Chardonnay. Menu makeover: George Vanderbilt’s favorite dish We know from archival information that George Vanderbilt loved roast turkey and it was frequently served at Biltmore. For our modern menu makeover, Chef DeMarco recommends our Simple Brined and Roasted Turkey to ensure you bring the most tender, flavorful main dish to the table. Simple Brined and Roasted Turkey Recipe: 1 18–20 pound turkey 2 gallons water ½ cup white wine vinegar ½ cup granulated sugar 2 cups kosher salt 3 tablespoons black peppercorns 2 tablespoons red pepper flakes 2 tablespoons yellow or brown mustard seeds 2 tablespoons whole fennel seeds 1 tablespoon whole cloves 12 cloves fresh garlic 3 sprigs fresh thyme 1 stick unsalted butter, melted Salt and pepper to taste Special equipment Heavy-duty plastic brining bag and an ice chest large enough to hold a 20-pound turkey Butcher’s twine Roasting pan and rack Brining In a four-quart saucepot, combine 2 quarts of water, vinegar, sugar, salt, peppercorns, red pepper, mustard seeds, and fennel. Simmer the brine for 5 minutes, ensuring that the salt and sugar have dissolved. Allow to cool to room temperature. Crush garlic cloves. Fill a quarter of the ice chest with ice. Place the turkey in the brining bag along with the cooled salt-water mixture, crushed garlic, thyme, and the remaining water. Tie the bag securely and cover with as much ice as the cooler will hold, packing it around the sides and top. Let the turkey brine overnight or up to 24 hours. Roasting Preheat oven to 375°F. Prepare a roasting pan and a roasting rack. Remove the turkey from the brine, pat dry with paper towels, and place it on the roasting rack in the roasting pan, breast side up. Let the turkey stand at room temperature for 45-60 minutes. Brush all over with butter and season liberally with salt and pepper, including inside the cavity. Tuck the wings under the turkey and tie the legs together with twine. Roast for 2 ½-3 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the dark meat. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving. Wine pairing suggestion: Enjoy the classic varietal character of our smooth Biltmore Reserve® North Carolina Chardonnay, handcrafted from estate-grown grapes, with your Thanksgiving turkey, on its own, or as part of our Thanksgiving Wine Trio, which is carefully curated to complement your celebration. Set your Thanksgiving table with recipes from Biltmore’s executive chef and handcrafted wines from our winemaker! Menu makeover: sensational sides A variety of vegetables appears on the 1904 menu, and Chef Demarco elevated traditional green beans into something sublime with Green Beans with Pancetta and Hazelnut Brown Butter. Green Beans with Pancetta and Hazelnut Brown Butter Recipe: Ingredients 1¼ pounds thin green beans 1/3 cup toasted hazelnuts 4 ounces pancetta 2 ounces butter 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes Kosher salt Instructions Trim any stems from the ends of the green beans and set aside. Crush hazelnuts with the side of a knife or rolling pin and reserve. Set a six-quart pot filled with water over high heat and bring to a boil. Salt the boiling water to taste. Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Dice pancetta into 1/4-inch pieces and add to the skillet. Cook until crisp on the outside but still tender on the inside, about 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove cooked pancetta from the skillet and set aside. Add butter to the same skillet. Cook the butter over medium heat until it becomes light brown, about 30 seconds, and then turn off the heat. Add green beans to the boiling water and cook until tender, about 2 minutes for haricots verts. Remove the cooked green beans from the water and add them to the skillet with the browned butter. Add the reserved pancetta and hazelnuts to the skillet. Toss well to coat the green beans, and season to taste with salt. Based on archival notes, we think Edith Vanderbilt would have enjoyed this delicious Pumpkin-Pecan Layer Cake–and you will, too! Menu makeover: dessert decadence Cake was one of Edith Vanderbilt’s favorite desserts, so the inclusion of pineapple cake (along with mince pie) on the 1904 menu is not surprising. For our updated interpretation of classic holiday flavors, try our Pumpkin-Pecan Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting—it’s a flavorful combination to round out your holiday meal in style! Pumpkin-Pecan Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe: Cake 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 3/4 teaspoons ground allspice 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 1½ cups sugar 1 cup (packed) golden brown sugar 1 cup canola oil 4 large eggs 1 15-ounce can pure pumpkin 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350°F. Butter two 8-inch-diameter cake pans with 1½-inch-high sides. Line the bottoms of the pans with parchment paper and dust with flour. Sift 3 cups flour and the next 7 ingredients into a medium bowl. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat both sugars and oil until combined (the mixture will look grainy). Add eggs one at a time, beating until well blended after each addition. Add pumpkin and vanilla and beat until well blended. Gradually add the flour mixture, beating just until incorporated. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for about 1 hour, or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool cakes completely in pans on a rack. Run a knife around the cakes to loosen, then invert onto racks. Remove parchment paper and turn cakes over, rounded side up. Using a serrated knife, trim the rounded tops to level and cut each layer in half. Fill with Caramel Pecan filling and top with Cream Cheese Vanilla Bean Frosting. Caramel Pecan Filling 2 cups sugar 1/2 cup water 1/4 cup honey 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter 1/2 cup heavy cream 4 cups toasted pecans Stir sugar and water in a large saucepan over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves. Increase heat and boil without stirring, occasionally swirling the pan and brushing down the sides with a wet pastry brush, until the caramel is deep amber, about 12–15 minutes. Add honey and return to a boil, stirring often for about 1 minute longer. Add butter and stir until blended. Add cream (the mixture will bubble vigorously) and whisk until smooth. Stir in pecans and let cool until spreadable. Apply the mixture to each cake layer. Cream Cheese Frosting 2 pounds cream cheese 12 ounces butter 6 cups confectioner’s sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla 1 vanilla bean Soften cream cheese and butter and mix together until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, and vanilla bean seeds, and beat until smooth. Spread over the top and sides of the cake. Wine pairing suggestion: Uncork the festive bubbles of Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine with a decadent dessert like this and offer a toast to celebrate the occasion. Make your Thanksgiving menu shine with Biltmore wines! Bring Biltmore wines to the table While decadent holiday meals may be a bit tricky to pair with wines, our Thanksgiving Wine Trio features Biltmore Estate® Cardinal’s Crest®, Biltmore Reserve® North Carolina Chardonnay, and Vanderbilt Reserve® Sonoma County Pinot Noir to cover most options. Whether your Thanksgiving table is laden with tried-and-true classics or new favorites, we hope your holiday is filled with fellowship, good memories, and delicious food-and-wine pairings!
Hosts in Biltmore House: A Brief History Posted on October 10, 2022 at 11:46 am.Written by Amy Dangelico Our Interpretive Hosts are integral to visits to Biltmore House in Asheville, NC. Whether you’re enjoying the main tour route of America’s Largest Home® or exploring via one of our more in-depth, behind-the-scenes tours, these trained storytellers strive to offer an accurate and entertaining interpretation of Biltmore’s history and collections. But did you know that Interpretive Hosts weren’t always part of the Biltmore House experience? Let’s take a look back at the history of touring Biltmore, which began before the house was even opened. Archival estate admission ticket, ca. 1920. Visiting the Gardens & Grounds of the Estate According to archival correspondence, George Vanderbilt allowed the public to drive on estate roads as early as 1894—before the construction of Biltmore House was even completed! But it wasn’t until October 1903 that a formalized pass system was developed, which included an admission cost for everyone, except select guests of the Vanderbilts. The reverse side of these original estate tickets included the following regulations: The plucking of flowers or breaking of trees or shrubs is forbidden.It is forbidden to drive over planted areas or the borders of roads.The taking of photographs anywhere on the Estate is prohibited. And the admission rates at this time were as follows: 25c for a vehicle drawn by one horse and carrying 1 or 2 persons, or for a person on horseback.50c for a 2-horse vehicle carrying not over five persons. For each additional person 10c; for each additional horse 25c.10c for a single person on foot or with a bicycle. According to our records, not much changed in terms of regulations or pricing for the first 18 or so years after this initial pass system was developed. In 1921, charges for admission were updated as follows: 5 passenger car (4 passengers & driver) $1; 7 passenger car (6 passengers & driver) $1.50. Cornelia Vanderbilt Cecil and John A. V. Cecil (center) at the public opening of Biltmore House, 1930. Visiting Biltmore House In 1930, George Vanderbilt’s daughter Cornelia and her husband John A. V. Cecil opened Biltmore House to the public. This decision was made in response to requests to increase tourism in the Asheville area during the Depression and to generate income to preserve the estate. This milestone was a fundamental shift in the way the public was able to experience Biltmore. Previous to this, only select guests of the Vanderbilts were fortunate enough to see the interiors of America’s Largest Home® and the invaluable collection it housed. “Mr. Cecil and I hope that through opening Biltmore House to the public, Asheville and Western North Carolina will derive all the benefit they deserve and that the people who go through the house and the estate will get as much pleasure and enjoyment out of it as Mr. Cecil and I do in making it possible. I also want to say that we both feel in doing this, it is a fitting memorial to my father. After all, it was his life’s work and creation.” — Cornelia Vanderbilt Cecil’s welcome speech at the opening of Biltmore House, March 15, 1930, as quoted in the Asheville Citizen One of our Biltmore Interpretive Hosts leads a small group tour in the Winter Garden. Hosts in Biltmore House In the late 1980s, hosts were introduced to the Biltmore House experience. For the first time, guests were offered accurate information about the collection, the Vanderbilt family, and the house itself. Today, our Interpretive Hosts undergo extensive training to ensure they have knowledge about every object on display—yet they do not follow a script, making each of their interactions with our guests truly unique. We invite you to discover all of our wonderful tour offerings at Biltmore House, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience every time, thanks to our talented Interpretive Hosts.
Outstanding In Our Field: Biltmore’s Farming Legacy Posted on October 10, 2022 at 12:39 am.Written by Jean Sexton When it comes to farming history, Biltmore is truly outstanding in the field. Learn about how we continue to honor this agricultural legacy by connecting our present and future initiatives to our historic past. Archival photograph of estate workers harvesting hay at Biltmore. Establishing a legacy When George Vanderbilt began planning his grand estate in Asheville, North Carolina, his vision was twofold. First, he wanted to create a relaxing place to entertain friends and family. Just as important, however, was his desire to preserve the Blue Ridge Mountain beauty surrounding his home. In choosing Frederick Law Olmsted, world-renowned landscape architect, to design the expansive gardens and grounds of Biltmore Estate, Vanderbilt was not only setting the stage for some of the most remarkable gardens in America, but he was also availing himself of Olmsted’s years of experience in managing vast tracts of public and private land. Archival farm image of the Historic Horse Barn and Line House Cottages for Biltmore Dairy employees. Olmsted’s advice After visiting the property in 1889 with Vanderbilt, Olmsted wrote: “My advice would be to make a small park into which to look from your house; make a small pleasure ground and garden, farm your river bottom chiefly to keep and fatten livestock with view to manure, and make the rest a forest, improving the existing woods and planting the old fields.” Vanderbilt agreed with Olmsted’s recommendations, including the suggestion that agricultural operations be developed and that Vanderbilt implement Olmsted’s long-term plan for sustainability. From this decision came the nation’s first planned forestry program and the beginning of a family focus on environmental stewardship that continues today with George Vanderbilt’s descendants who still own and manage Biltmore. Agricultural workers and estate residents at the Market Gardener’s Cottage, photographed in front of an elaborate display of estate-raised produce. Farmer Vanderbilt Agricultural operations at Biltmore were intended to achieve three goals: supplying dairy products, meat, poultry, fruits, and vegetables for use in Biltmore House; providing income through sales of farm products; and serving as a learning laboratory in successful farming for farmers and educators. Receipts and invoices in the estate’s archives document the construction of farm buildings and cottages, the purchase of animals, supplies, and equipment, and the hiring of farm staff beginning as early as September 1889. Agricultural programs included beef, pork, and poultry farms, an apiary, vegetable gardens, fruit orchards, hay for livestock, and more. The most successful of these initiatives would be Biltmore Dairy, which eventually became one of the largest operations in the southeast. Our emphasis on managed forestry continues today across the estate. Forestry continues on the estate Today, more than 4,000 acres of the estate are managed under a plan written by a certified consulting forester. We utilize selection harvest in 15-year rotations, allowing a chance for different species to grow and mature. Instead of focusing on just a profitable bottom line, Biltmore strives to create a true multiuse sustainable forest: one that provides healthy wildlife habitats, beautiful aesthetics, recreation opportunities, and the ability to persist for generations to come. Kyle Mayberry, Director of Agriculture, oversees Biltmore’s current farming operations. Today’s agricultural operations Biltmore currently farms approximately 2,500 acres of land. This includes our estate vineyards, cropland for grains and forages, pasturage for cattle, chickens, hogs, sheep, and horses, and 8,000 square feet of greenhouses that supply estate restaurants with a variety of artisan lettuces, leafy greens, herbs, edible flowers, and heirloom tomatoes. To help preserve one of our most valuable resources—the land—Biltmore seeks to continue the tradition of resource stewardship by following best agricultural practices including rotational grazing of livestock; rotating crops on a four-year cycle to help reduce soil erosion and increasing soil fertility; and using goats to control invasive plant species in areas of steep terrain, which allows maintenance crews to take on other projects while reducing some diesel fuel usage in equipment. Biltmore’s farming operations stretch far outside the estate. Through Biltmore® Grown, you can also savor our high-quality, estate-raised products at your own table, long after your visit to the estate has ended. One way we continue our farming legacy is by raising some of the same heritage breeds that George Vanderbilt favored like these Berkshire hogs. Connecting our past and present farm history Biltmore continues to honor George Vanderbilt’s legacy of preserving the land and protecting the environment through many ecological, recycling, and alternative energy programs. Guests visiting the 8,000-acre estate can take a deeper look into our agricultural history at Antler Hill Barn, where you can see antique farming equipment, watch craft demonstrations, and visit friendly farm animals at the Farmyard, and through the Farm to Table Tour & Taste guided experience, which includes a special tour of Biltmore’s farms on the rarely-seen West Side of the estate. Featured image: Archival image of Edith Vanderbilt operating a farm tractor while her daughter Cornelia and others watch.
Our holiday gingerbread house was built to last Posted on September 25, 2022 at 12:24 pm.Written by Jean Sexton 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. 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. In past years, our talented Biltmore Estate pastry chefs created real confectionery 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 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 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 are 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 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 Christmas Tree is a favorite holiday tradition To see this marvelous piece of eye candy displayed in the Main Kitchen of Biltmore House, make reservations for a holiday visit during our annual Christmas at Biltmore celebration!
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
Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius Posted on August 10, 2022 at 4:55 pm.Written by Jean Sexton This exhibition has ended, but please enjoy the archived information. The wonders of Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius await you at Biltmore now through February 20, 2023. Five centuries after his death, Leonardo da Vinci still captivates our imagination with his remarkable discoveries and creations. Learn more about the man, the mysteries, and his masterpieces with this immersive exhibition created and produced by Grande Experiences and hosted on the grounds of George Vanderbilt’s magnificent Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. An Enigmatic Life The Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius exhibition includes stunning projections of his artwork like the details of “Madonna with Carnation” show here. Leonardo di ser Piero da Vinci (Leonardo, son of ser Piero from Vinci) was born out of wedlock in Vinci, Italy, 20 miles outside of Florence. He would change the world, becoming an artist, scientist, inventor, musician, philosopher, and more. Beyond his astonishing body of work, however, existed a fascinating person who remains enigmatic to this day. Despite the more than 7,000 pages of sketches, notes, and lists he left behind, the personal life of Leonardo da Vinci is shadowed by mystery. An Artistic Legend Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, painted in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy Da Vinci’s artistic talents first emerged in childhood. After receiving a basic education in reading, writing, and mathematics, at 14 years old he began an apprenticeship with the famous Florentine painter and sculptor Andrea del Verrocchio. By the age of 20, Da Vinci joined other notable artists in the guild of Saint Luke. A constant tinkerer, Da Vinci experimented with different mediums and techniques such as using his palm and fingers along with a brush to create three-dimensional effects. Prolific even into middle age, in his mid-forties to early fifties Da Vinci painted Last Supper and Mona Lisa. The former became one of the most reproduced works of art in the world; the latter, one of the most iconic. A Scientific Trailblazer Replicas of the machine models created by Leonardo da Vinci are included in the exhibit at Biltmore, “Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius.” Now on display at Amherst at Deerpark. Photo credit: The Biltmore Company. Insatiably inquisitive, there seemed to be no area of study in which Da Vinci did not maintain an interest. Skilled in left-brain talents as well as right, the artist pursued projects in botany, geology, architecture, aviation, physics, engineering, chemistry, mathematics, zoology, anatomy, and more. Centuries ahead of their time and written in precise detail, Da Vinci’s sketches depict inventions such as the helicopter, an armored tank, a calculator, a lifebelt, and various bridge designs. This replica of a paddle boat design by Da Vincie is included in the immersive, multi-sensory exhibition hosted at Biltmore now through February 20, 2023. His notes contain theoretical suppositions describing plate tectonics, hydrodynamics, and industrial machinery. Da Vinci’s famous Vitruvian Man, based upon the work of the Roman architect Vitruvius, bridged art and science by illustrating the proportions of the human body with blueprint-like clarity. Leonardo da Vinci and George Vanderbilt: Kindred Spirits Now through February 20, 2023, immerse yourself in the wonders of “Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius”, created and produced by Grande Experiences and hosted on the grounds of George Vanderbilt’s magnificent Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. One could say that George Vanderbilt and Leonardo da Vinci would have enjoyed each other’s company had they not been born more than 400 years apart. Both possessed a love of learning, boundless curiosity, a dedication to art, a commitment to innovation–even a shared love of wine, with Da Vinci accepting a vineyard near Milan as payment for his masterpiece Last Supper, and Vanderbilt known as a thoughtful collector of wine. Now, the two remarkable men come together at Biltmore during the one-of-a-kind immersive, multi-sensory experience, Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius, the third installment in the well-received Legends of Art & Innovation at Biltmore series. Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius Guests enjoying aspects of the exhibition Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius, hosted at Biltmore. Set to a Renaissance-inspired soundtrack of classical music, Leonardo da Vinci – 500 years of Genius will envelop you in more than 3,000 images of the Italian polymath’s masterpieces, inventions, notes, sketches, and personal reflections. You’ll also see replicas of some of Da Vinci’s amazing machines and models. Don’t miss this must-see exhibition hosted at Biltmore’s Amherst at Deerpark® venue now–February 20, 2023. Plan a Blue Ridge Mountain Escape at Biltmore! Plan your Blue Ridge Mountain escape at Biltmore today! Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Biltmore and extend your visit with a reservation at one of our hotels or private historic cottages. In addition, you can enhance your stay with a complimentary wine tasting at the Winery in Antler Hill Village, a wide range of outdoor activities, shopping, dining, and so much more! Featured image: Images of Mona Lisa as part of Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius
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
Plan a Friends’ Getaway at Biltmore Posted on July 29, 2022 at 12:53 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Ready to plan your next friends’ getaway? With 8,000 acres of Blue Ridge Mountain beauty to explore, there’s no better destination for your next friend’s getaway than Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. “Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want uninterrupted time to reconnect with someone special, anytime is a perfect time to plan a friends’ getaway with us,” said Beth Poslusny, General Manager of Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate®. “We’ve hosted girls’ getaways, guys’ getaways, bachelor and bachelorette parties, retreats for sororities and fraternities, reunions with high school classmates, and long weekends with multi-generational family members reconnecting, and everything in between,” Beth said. “There is never a shortage of activities to help you enjoy your time together here at Biltmore!” Stay at Biltmore for your friends’ getaway Experience a four-star getaway with your girlfriends at the Inn on Biltmore Estate. 📸 by @worldofwanderer A friends’ gathering just wouldn’t be the same without late-night reminiscing and storytelling. Book a room at any of Biltmore’s distinctive lodging properties so the good times can continue! Visit Tip: Try Village Hotel for convenient access to Antler Hill Village & Winery, The Inn on Biltmore Estate® for a luxurious, four-star experience, and for groups of four to five friends or family members, consider one of our private historic Cottages on Biltmore Estate™—the ultimate way to experience our 8,000 acres like a guest of the Vanderbilts. Sample some of these friends’ getaway ideas! Enjoy morning beverages at The Inn on Biltmore Estate before starting the day. 📸 by @chelseaericasmith and @thewineshutter × Exploring Biltmore House with your gal pal is a must-do. 📸 by @jasmineling × Make lifelong memories with mother and daughter getaway during Christmas at Biltmore. 📸 by @consistentlyketo × Sip on your favorite sparkling wines while overlooking Antler Hill Village. 📸 by @grapechic × Sip award-winning vino Savor award-winning wines with your friends at Biltmore’s Winery and Wine Bar. 📸 by @shelbyywiggins Did you know that there is an award-winning winery on Biltmore Estate? Wake up your taste buds with your best buds during a visit to Biltmore’s state-of-the-art Winery. Enjoy a complimentary wine tasting in our Tasting Room, then linger at the adjacent Wine Bar to sip something special together—perhaps one of our handcrafted sparkling wines. Before you go, visit the Wine Shop to stock up on the vintages that pleased your palate most so you can enjoy your favorites at home. Visit Tip: If you missed snagging the perfect wine, find it online at Biltmore Shop, or consider joining the Vanderbilt Wine Club® so you’ll receive seasonal shipments all year round to remind you of your fabulous friends’ getaway! Capture moments that matter Mother and daughter enjoy a special moment in front of the Conservatory at Biltmore. 📸 @sincerelydeidra Don’t forget to capture photos together for a special way to document the smiles that only a special getaway together can bring. Picturesque locations abound at Biltmore for the most casual or frame-worthy images. Have a Biltmore team member snap a picture for you, or use Frederick Law Olmsted’s majestic landscape designs as a breathtaking backdrop. Our historic gardens and grounds offer stunning photo opportunities in every season, and the Conservatory features year-round tropical treasures under its grand glass roof. Visit Tip: To capture memorable pics with your besties in late summer and early fall, look for swathes of glorious golden sunflowers along the road to Antler Hill Village. Plan your friends’ getaway at Biltmore today! Plan a weekend getaway with your girlfriends to Biltmore. 📸 by @chelseaericasmith and @thewineshutter Uninterrupted escapes with the special people in your life lead to laughter-filled hours, story-worthy scenarios, and closer relationships. There is no better location than Biltmore when you’re ready to hit the “pause” button on life and make meaningful memories with those you love most. “Check Biltmore’s website for special offers such as the Morning at Biltmore package at Village Hotel,” Beth said. “It comes with a fascinating pre-opening tour of Biltmore House, plus admission to Italian Renaissance Alive, which is the final experience in our Legends of Art & Innovation at Biltmore series that you simply do not want to miss.” Visit Tip: Planning to spend multiple days at the estate? Consider becoming a Biltmore Annual Passholder to take advantage of the exclusive benefits we reserve just for Passholders, like bringing your children 16 and younger with you for free, plus special discounts on shopping, dining, activities, and overnight stays at our two hotels! Gather your friends together at Biltmore and celebrate time well spent at this magnificent mountain destination! 📸 by map.wanderer With everything there is to see and do at Biltmore, we invite you to make a long weekend of your friends’ getaway so you’ll have plenty of time to explore, discover, and reconnect here in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains! Visit Tip: Whether you’re driving or flying into the Asheville area, we generally enjoy good weather most of the year with colorful springs, warm summers, cool autumns, and mild winters, so don’t hesitate to plan your friends’ getaway at Biltmore Estate in any season! Share your memories with Biltmore! During your next trip to Biltmore with your friends, be sure to tag @biltmoreestate #biltmore for a chance to be featured on our official accounts.
Biltmore’s Bass Pond: Re-Creating the Missing Island Posted on July 8, 2022 at 2:17 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico Did you know Biltmore’s Bass Pond originally had two islands within it? One of the islands (or “islets,” as landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted referred to them) mysteriously disappeared over the years. However, our horticulture team recently worked to re-create this feature as part of our mission to preserve the estate in Asheville, North Carolina. About the Bass Pond’s Design Biltmore’s Bass Pond—referred to as “the lake” in some archival documents—was part of Frederick Law Olmsted’s landscape plan for the estate, created more than 125 years ago. Designed to provide still water for the Vanderbilts and their family and friends to go boating, the six-acre body of water was created by damming a nearby creek and enlarging its millpond. Archival image of the Bass Pond with both original islands visible, ca. 1895. Olmsted wrote about the Bass Pond islands in a January 29, 1891 letter to George Vanderbilt: “There were four reasons for designing the islets near the north margin of the lake: first, the effect of them would be to enlarge the apparent extent of the water… and there would at least be more effect of intricacy and mystery; second, [because of] the steepness of the ground almost everywhere at our proposed water-line on the main shore… the islands, being low and flat, are intended to serve was a disguise and relief to this circumstance; third, the islands will save cost of construction; fourth, they are needed as breeding places for shy waterside birds, many of which will only make their nests in the seclusion of thickets apparently inaccessible.” Our team sourced the clay-based soil for the new island from another estate location. Re-Creating the Missing Island During the early months of 2022, our horticulture team began the preliminary work to install the missing island. First, they drained the Bass Pond so that the water level was below the height of the new island. Then, the pond was dredged and our crew disposed of the old sediment and material. Finally, our team brought in clay-based soil from another location on the estate to re-create the island. Transporting the selection of plants to the newly established island was a project in and of itself. Landscaping of the island took place in May 2022. Six members of our horticulture team transported iris, Cliftonia, and Juncus to the island via several rowboat trips. The selection of plant material was in line with Olmsted’s original intention for the islands’ purpose. Juncus, for example, is a water-loving grass that offers habitat for wildlife, in particular the shy waterside birds referenced by Olmsted in his letter to George Vanderbilt. Our team intentionally selected plants that would remain true to Olmsted’s original vision. On your next trip to the estate, we invite you to linger along the shores of the Bass Pond. Consider strolling there via the Azalea Garden Path after your Biltmore House visit. Marvel at its historic boat house and waterfall. And of course, watch the newly re-created island for those shy waterside birds—just as Olmsted intended. Re-Creating Biltmore’s Missing Bass Pond Island