Biltmore Estate Winery Winemaking Tour — Asheville, North Carolina

Discover the Biltmore Winery Tour in North Carolina

Located on the historic Biltmore Estate, the Biltmore Winery offers one of the most elegant and educational wine experiences in the Southeast. Visitors stroll through the winery’s cellars, learn about winemaking techniques, and enjoy tastings of Biltmore’s award-winning wines — all inside the estate’s beautifully restored former dairy barn.
Why it’s special: It’s the most visited winery in the United States, combining world-class wine with the grandeur and history of the Vanderbilt estate.

History/Story of the Biltmore Winery

George Vanderbilt’s legacy of agriculture and hospitality paved the way for the Biltmore Winery, founded in the 1980s as part of the estate’s transformation into a modern destination. Over time, the winery grew into a full production facility, sourcing grapes from both estate vineyards and select West Coast partners. Today, it produces a wide range of handcrafted wines served across the property and enjoyed by millions of visitors.

What You’ll See & Do at Biltmore Winery

• Tour Biltmore’s wine production areas, including fermentation tanks and barrel rooms

• Learn how grapes are harvested, crushed, fermented, aged, and bottled

• Explore historic winery buildings that once operated as the estate dairy barn

• Meet knowledgeable wine hosts who explain winemaking and tasting techniques

• Visit the wine shop and tasting bar to sample reds, whites, rosé, and sparkling wines

• Enjoy optional premium tastings, chocolate pairings, or behind-the-scenes experiences

Biltmore Winery Visiting Information

Hands-On Elements

Tours often include smelling aromatics, identifying wine notes, viewing barrels and fermentation tanks up close, and participating in guided tastings. Some premium experiences include sensory exercises or reserve-pour comparisons.

Photo/Video Policy

Photography is welcome in most public winery spaces. Some production areas may restrict flash for safety reasons.

Souvenirs & Extras

• Bottles of Biltmore wines, including estate exclusives

• Wine accessories, glassware, and gourmet gifts

• Exclusive reserve tastings and seasonal wine-themed events

• Access to Biltmore’s restaurants, gardens, and shops with estate admission

Practical Info

All winery visits require Biltmore Estate daytime admission or an annual pass. Free tastings are included with most ticket types, but specialty tours require separate reservations. The winery is fully indoors and open year-round.

A typical visit lasts 45–90 minutes, depending on tasting choices and add-on experiences.

Pricing of Biltmore Winery

• General Winery Visit & Tasting: Included with estate admission

• Specialty Winery Tours: ~$15–$40 per person

• Premium Tastings (e.g., Red Wine & Chocolate): ~$30–$40

• Estate Admission: Varies seasonally (required for entry)

Nearby Biltmore Winery

• Biltmore House — America’s largest private home

• Antler Hill Village — shops, dining, farmyard, and outdoor activities

• Biltmore Gardens and Conservatory

• Asheville breweries, Blue Ridge Parkway access, downtown attractions

FAQs of Biltmore Winery

Do I need a ticket to visit the winery?

Yes — all winery guests must purchase Biltmore Estate daytime admission or hold an annual pass.

Are tastings included?

Yes, the standard wine tasting is included with general estate admission. Premium tastings are optional add-ons.

Can children visit the winery?

Children may enter the winery with an adult but cannot participate in tastings. Some areas, such as the tasting bar, are 21+ only.

Do I need a reservation for the standard tasting?

Reservations are strongly recommended, as tasting slots often fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.

How long should I plan for the winery experience?

Allow at least one hour for touring and tasting, more if exploring Antler Hill Village or adding a premium experience.