Biltmore Winery Celebrates Four Decades of Winemaking Excellence in Asheville

Biltmore Winery Celebrates 40 Years of Winemaking

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Biltmore Winery has proud memories that span four successful decades of winemaking. Established amidst the grandeur of Biltmore Estate, the winery reflects the agricultural vision of George Vanderbilt and continues to exemplify the legacy he left behind.

Founded by Vanderbilt's grandson, William A.V. Cecil, the winery symbolizes the estate's traditions of hospitality and agriculture. Over the past 40 years, the winery has grown to produce an impressive selection of over 45 wines made from estate-grown grapes and selections sourced from dedicated partners across regions like California, Virginia, and Washington. The wines are crafted to be approachable and food-friendly, ensuring they cater to a wide array of palates for global visitors.

To celebrate this significant milestone, Biltmore Winery has introduced its prestigious 40th Anniversary Release, a Sonoma County Red Blend. This special wine, along with the Biltmore Estate Château Reserve North Carolina Brut Red Sparkling 2022, is set to make its debut on May 20th, both in-store and online, inviting enthusiasts to partake in the celebration.

As Executive Winemaker Sharon Fenchak pointed out, this anniversary goes beyond just the wines; it encompasses the people, the place, and the tradition of hospitality that have been pivotal to the winery’s success. "We are privileged to create wines that truly showcase the Vanderbilt legacy and signify our commitment to quality and tradition," she expressed.

While grapes may not be the estate’s original agricultural pursuit, Cecil recognized the winery as a fitting extension of Vanderbilt's hospitality. Following the natural end of the estate's dairy business, Cecil transitioned the estate's agricultural focus toward vineyards. In 1978, he took a significant step by planting vinifera grapes on the estate's western slopes, furthering his vision. The transformation of a former dairy barn into a state-of-the-art winery marked a pivotal moment in the estate's history.

Opening in 1985 as North Carolina’s first licensed winery, Biltmore Winery quickly established its reputation for high-quality wines. The dedication and expertise of the winemaking team have played a key role in this regard. Notable contributions from sixth-generation French winemaker Philippe Jourdain, who expanded the estate's vineyards, along with Bernard Delille, who became instrumental during his 32-year tenure as assistant winemaker, helped entrench the winery's legacy. Fenchak, who joined the team in 1999 and took her lead role in 2018, stays true to the vision of her predecessors, focusing on crafting wines that preserve the varietal character and deliver consistency over time.

In 2022, the vineyard team received the North Carolina Grower of Excellence Award, a testament to their commitment to elevating the state’s wine-growing industry. The vineyard reflects a commitment to sustainable practices and agricultural innovation that aligns with the original vision laid out by George Vanderbilt.

For wine lovers keen to participate in Biltmore Winery’s 40th-anniversary celebrations, the winery invites enthusiasts to explore its anniversary wines and share in a family legacy that continues to champion quality, tradition, and sustainability.

To delve deeper into Biltmore Winery's storied past and future, visit www.biltmorewine.com. Here, you'll discover a rich selection of award-winning wines crafted through a blend of tradition and contemporary techniques, ensuring each bottle tells a unique story that echoes the enduring spirit of the estate.

Conclusion

Biltmore Winery’s journey over the past 40 years serves as an inspiring testament to resilience and dedication in the winemaking landscape. As the estate continues to thrive, its commitment to preserving the legacy and values of the Vanderbilt family remains unwavering, producing wines that not only reflect their heritage but also cater to the tastes of modern wine enthusiasts.