Biltmore Winery

The winery is a year-round destination, but the experience changes significantly with the seasons. Spring through fall is widely considered the best time to visit. In the spring, the estate’s gardens are in full bloom, providing a stunning backdrop for your drive to Antler Hill Village. Summer offers warm, sunny days perfect for sitting on the terrace with a chilled Rose or Sauvignon Blanc.

Harvest season, which typically runs from August through October, is a particularly exciting time as the grapes are brought in. If you are looking for the iconic Appalachian autumn experience, aim for late October. This is when the fall colors peak in Asheville, turning the surrounding mountains into a tapestry of deep reds and burnt oranges. The winery feels especially cozy during these crisp months.

Because Biltmore Winery is located within the Biltmore Estate, you must have an admission ticket or an annual pass to access it. We highly recommend booking your tasting time slot as soon as you arrive at the estate or via the official website, as the complimentary tastings can fill up quickly during weekends and holidays.

Parking is available in the Antler Hill Village lots. From there, it is a short, scenic walk to the winery entrance. If you are visiting during the busy summer or Christmas seasons, try to arrive at the winery before noon to avoid the largest crowds. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the estate is vast, and bring a light sweater; the underground cellars and tasting rooms are kept cool to protect the wine.

You should plan to spend at least two to three hours at Antler Hill Village to fully enjoy the winery and its surroundings. This allows time for the tasting, a walk through the wine shop, and a quick bite to eat. If you are doing a specialized tour, add another hour to your schedule.

Start your morning with a tour of the Biltmore House to see the grand architecture. Around midday, head over to Antler Hill Village for lunch at one of the estate’s casual eateries. Follow lunch with your scheduled wine tasting at the winery. Spend your afternoon browsing the farm displays or walking the lagoon trail before heading back to your lodging for the evening.

There are plenty of things to do near Biltmore Winery without leaving the estate grounds, such as visiting the manicured gardens and the Conservatory. However, the surrounding Asheville area offers even more to explore. Just a short drive away is the entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway, famous for its long-range mountain overlooks and hiking trails.

For art lovers, the River Arts District in Asheville features hundreds of working studios. If you want to see more of the region's natural flora, the North Carolina Arboretum is nearby. For those willing to drive a bit further, the stunning vistas of Craggy Gardens or the summit of Mount Mitchell State Park—the highest point east of the Mississippi—are well worth the trip. If you want a taste of local farm life, stop by Hickory Nut Gap Farm for local meats and family activities.

The winery is located at 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803. Once you pass through the main estate gates, you will follow a winding, three-mile approach road that was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted to be a slow, scenic transition into the heart of the property. It is a beautiful drive, so take your time and watch for wildlife.

If you are coming from out of town, the drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway into Asheville is one of the most famous scenic routes in America. It offers multiple pull-offs where you can see the French Broad River and the rolling hills of the Pisgah National Forest. Always check the National Park Service website for road closures, especially during the winter months.

When deciding where to stay near Biltmore Winery, consider how you want to spend your evenings. Staying within a 10-to-15-minute drive of the estate entrance allows you to maximize your time on the grounds while remaining close to the vibrant dining scene in Downtown Asheville. There are many boutique guesthouses and mountain cabins in the surrounding hills that offer a more private, authentic Appalachian feel.

We always recommend booking directly with the host or the property’s official website. This often ensures the best rates and clearer communication regarding check-in procedures. Look for rentals in the South Asheville or Biltmore Village areas if you want the shortest commute, or consider a stay near the River Arts District for a more eclectic, creative atmosphere.