Hangin' With The Vanderbilts.

I'm at the Biltmore Estates in Asheville, NC to celebrate the legendary property's 30th anniversary. And what better way than to hang out on the farm with a "real" Vanderbilt.

Chase Pickering is a fifth generation Vanderbilt (George's great great grandson) and recently returned to the estate as a marketing manager. Such a lovely person to spend the morning with.

As we took a behind the scenes tour of the land and learned its farming history, he regaled us with tales of growing up on the grounds of "America's most beautiful mansion." We heard lots of great stories, like how he and his friends would jump on the feed bales until the split open, how fun it was to watch the filming of the many famous movies shot here, traveling the world on projects to protect the environment and animals, working at Walt Disney World, pointing out his favorite trees including the one he proposed to his wife under, and most importantly how excited he was to be home and promote the beloved family estate.

He was truly excited to share with us his love of the field to farm green house and hydroponics, growing canola for fuel, the excellent care given to the animals here, the land conservation and all of the attention to details most people don't get to see on a simple tour of the estate.

What an amazing place full of amazing people. More to come......

Planning Your Wine Vacation

Some of my favorite trips have been centered around food and wine.

I quite often find that people ask me for advice on where to go and how to make it happen.

Those are just a few of the reasons I was so happy that 10Best and USA TODAY TRAVEL asked me to write about "vinotourism" and  planning a wine tasting trip.

Check it out here!

Stop thinking about it and go ahead and book yours. You will be so glad you did. CHEERS!

Biltmore and Bubbly

There are certain things about me that are all girl; my love of shoes, purses, fashion and things that match.

During some spring cleaning in my kitchen and pantry, I came across boxes of dishes, tea cups and saucers; decorated with these feminine accessories. I've always wanted to use them for a tea-party, so that's exactly what I did. More on that to come.

I'm not sure that it is "proper" to serve bubbly at afternoon tea in England, however, it's improper NOT to serve it at my house; regardless of the occasion.

I decided to welcome my guests with a glass of  Biltmore Estate Blanc de Blancs. The wine is bottled in Napa Valley for the famous Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. The Chateau-style mansion screams sophistication and tradition. I could just see women in hats and beautiful dresses, enjoying afternoon tea on the lawn, back in the day (1800's). So it seemed natural to start my affair with this wine. 

My guests dressed to impress, wearing flirty high heels and fashionable hats. Some even wore gloves while sipping the Blanc de Blanc, made of Chardonnay grapes from the Russian River Valley. They were all surprised at the Biltmore label, apparently not expecting to find it outside of the estate. The wine was smooth, several girls said "like honey". Not only did I smell the honey but I tasted it. Nicely balanced with a little lemon, acidity and just a hint of yeast; the wine was perfect for Sunday sipping. I thought it went exceptionally well with my spicy crab and cucumber appetizer. The finish was pleasant, the wine passed!

Nice to know that for my next swanky soiree I can find Biltmore for a mere $25 at several major, local retailers. Give it a pour and tell me what you think. Better yet, send directions. I'll put on my Sunday Best and  taste with you!