S E A S O N A L N E W S & N O T E S ~ F A L L 2 0 1 6

Mary Celeste Beall, Proprietor

The change of seasons is always a time I look forward to, especially in the Smoky Mountains where we’re lucky enough to have four distinct seasons. For me, Fall is cooler temperatures, putting away my linen clothes and pulling out a favorite sweater, lighting fires, camping out, exploring the outdoors with crisper air, and those gorgeous leaves. These milestones roll around every year, comforting in their familiarity, yet somehow, new again too. I think about our garden here on the farm: we plant mostly the same crops, but each harvest is unique—some bigger, some smaller, some full of surprises. Fall is like that. Routine, but full of anticipation.

As the school year starts, Fall brings a renewed energy. There’s a sense of starting with a clean slate—I almost feel like it’s the New Year. But instead of big resolutions, my family settles into traditions. Here in the South, that means football. So on Saturdays, you can find us with friends, peeling sweet potatoes to go with our burgers for the game. And it wouldn’t be Autumn to us without apples! It’s always exciting to go to the farmers market and have at least 10 varieties of ‘new crop’ apples to choose from. On a lazy weekend, we’ll often have a late breakfast—homemade waffles—and later, a light lunch of good ol’ sliced apples with peanut butter or a salad with roasted beets, chopped crispy apples and a little cheese. We also love to bring the apple press down to the Yallarhammer and make apple cider. Stop by and taste some yourself this Fall.

Best of all, the crisp mountain air is the perfect reason to spend lots of time together outside: hiking, exploring Blackberry Farm, building a fire after the sun goes down, family campouts complete with kumbaya sessions (just kidding!). One of our favorite Fall activities? Cycling the Cades Cove loop, a 12-mile path through the heart of the Smoky Mountains National Park. We will definitely miss Sam this Fall as we ride it, but we’ll all push extra hard up those hills in his honor.

I hope that turning up West Miller’s Cove Road is as much of a treat to you this season as it is to me. The brilliance of the Fall colors never fails to remind me to embrace the moment and take it all in. Right now is a magical time for us to get out, explore and enjoy the beauty of Blackberry Farm. I invite you to do the same on your next visit, whether you choose to explore the wine cellar or explore our favorite family bike routes. We look forward to welcoming you this Fall!

FAMILIAR RHYTHMS

THE UNMISTAKABLE RHYTHM OF FALL FINDS US EVERY YEAR. Slow in some places, quick in others, this burnished season brings familiar Autumn beauty and back-to-school routines all at once. Across Blackberry Farm, our gardens come into harvest, guests settle by the fire pit for evening s’mores and mountain hikes are never more beautiful. But even in the comfort of annual traditions (hello new journals, farm pumpkins, flaming foliage!) we look ahead with anticipation. Like the new year, this season is a gift, a chance to sharpen our pencils and start fresh.

We love to lay a simple, yet sophisticated, table with Blackberry Farm pottery, hand-thrown by artist Leanne McQueen exclusively for us. The pottery’s striking gray glaze is made by mixing in a bit of the ashes from the fireplace in The Barn—a beautiful touch particularly meaningful to us. We were delighted to see our lovely gray pottery gracing the cover of the new book from Relais & Chateaux, “The Art of Entertaining.” This extraordinary book shares recipes and secrets for entertaining at home from renowned chefs and innkeepers at Relais & Chateaux properties around the world. HANDMADE

FOR HARVEST TABLES

A BEAUTIFUL SPREAD

A BEAUTIFUL TABLEFall dinner parties and holiday gatherings are on the horizon, which means there will be plenty of opportunities to celebrate around a table—which our proprietor Mary Celeste knows all about. Here are her quick tips for a classic table:

Tableware tells a story.Whether you’re using heirloom china

or modern handmade pottery, the tableware you choose is the soul of your table setting. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, colors and styles! I love to pair old with new, and I often start

with my grandmother’s china.

Use quality linens to accent.Natural fabrics and antique linens

add softness and beauty to the table. Consider the style of your tableware

when setting out linens and layer accordingly. Your local fabric shop

can be a great source for a new splash of color.

Bring the outside in with flowers.When making floral centerpieces, cuttings from your garden can add

another dimension. Mix in loose vines and branches for an organic, natural

look. Whatever you select, remember to keep arrangements low to encourage

conversation across the table.

Mary Celeste Beall, Proprietor

TO ME, SETTING THE TABLE IS ALWAYS A FUN PART OF PREPARING FOR ANY GATHERING. I LIKE TO SET IT A FEW DAYS AHEAD OF TIME SO THAT I CAN ENJOY THE BEAUTIFUL TABLE MYSELF—PLUS, IT JUST ADDS TO THE ANTICIPATION OF THE EVENT!

BETTER THAN BACONIf you really want to take your next cheese board up a notch, you need to try our famous Bacon Jam. We turn the finest Tennessee whiskey and house-cured bacon into a sweet, smoky jam that adds a punch of irresistible flavor to anything you spread it on. Fair warning: this FarmStead staple has already sold out twice, so act fast if you want to get your hands on some.

FARM-FRESH FALLThe very latest edition of our seasonally curated FarmStead Box is practically made for harvest hosting. This crate comes hand-packed with everything you need to build a beautiful Fall charcuterie and cheese spread, including our Cheese Board, Pumpkin & Pear Butter, Sliced Sopressata, Pickled Purple Cabbage, Citrus Black Pepper Nut Mix, Sliced Finocchiona and more.

VISIT BLACKBERRYFARMSHOP.COM TO ORDER YOURS NOW.

THE NATIVE FAMILY OF ALES features a wide range of styles and flavors that share one extraordinary

component: native wild yeasts harvested from across Blackberry Farm’s vast acres. “These

beers tell the story of place and terroir,” says Chief Fermentation Officer Roy Milner.

“Native yeasts, as well as inspiration from local ingredients and life in the Foothills, give

these bottlings a special place in our portfolio.” The family includes Blackberry Rye,

Tennessee Cream Ale, Buckwheat Strawberry and Roasted Cherry Stout.

of the RUNFARMSPLENDOR

FREEDOM TO EXPLORE AND EXPERIMENT IS A FUNDAMENTAL VALUE FOR BLACKBERRY FARM BREWERY. OUR BREWERS ARE CONTINUALLY INSPIRED BY THE RICHNESS OF OUR REGION AND THE TRADITION OF BREWING.

OME INVITATIONS MEAN MORE THAN

others. Just ask Chef Cassidee Dabney who was recently invited to cook a dinner at the James Beard House early this September. Such an invitation is a high honor for a chef. Cassidee says, “Cooking at the Beard House has always been a goal of mine.”

Cassidee and Food & Beverage Director Andy Chabot traveled to New York City to host and serve a dinner inspired by our farm and the surrounding region. She describes her approach to Foothills Cuisine as “very simple and in the moment. The farm and forests really dictate the menu, and I want the food to tell the story of this place, the people that live here and the soulfulness of the region.” Paired with wines selected by Andy, the dinner spotlighted ingredients made or grown directly on our farm: butternut squash, grits ground from our corn and late Summer potatoes.

We are so proud of Cassidee for this prestigious achievement—and we hope you find time to taste the Smoky Mountain flavors that continue to inspire her on your next visit to Blackberry Farm this Fall.

S

After a busy Summer with the release of Summer Saison, Blackberry Rye and Tennessee Cream Ale, Blackberry Farm Brewery is thrilled to release some new beers! Be sure to check your favorite retailers and restaurants for our latest beers.

Daily Miel Our collaboration with Fullsteam Brewery produced this rustic, light-bodied ale with notes of dark roasted grain, tobacco and stone fruit.

Fall Saison A smooth and silky farmhouse ale with notes of roasted malt and earthy spice. This classic ‘harvest’ ale is sure to be a favorite.

Barrel Series Brett Saison A bright and slightly tart ale with hints of oak, and a deep, earthy complexity.

Cellar Reserve Holiday Special As the holiday season approaches, we were inspired yet again! We’ve brewed additional special releases for the weeks to come—available only in our gift shop in limited quantities.

Sleep TightGuests tell us they get the best sleep of their life at Blackberry Farm.

We’re flattered, but we can’t take all the credit: there’s something particularly

magical about the crisp Smoky Mountain air. After years of crafting the ideal

environment for sleep, we’re happy to share four habits that help our guests

experience better sleep—whether on the farm or at home.

THE SECRET TO SLEEPING

WELL IS SIMPLE: ALL YOU NEED

IS A GOOD FOUNDATION

AND A FEW GOOD RITUALS.

Create a sanctuary for sleep.Your body and your brain need a peaceful place to wind down for the day. Banish your electronics, use warm, low lighting and introduce a relaxing scent, like a fragrant candle or linen spray.

Establish a nightly ritual.A brief, yet consistent, relaxing routine that engages your senses can help cue your brain for sleep. This is the secret to Blackberry’s beloved turndown service: we light a crackling fire; plump the bedcovers and pillows; and leave a small chocolate to discover. Find a unique routine that works for you and repeat it every night, at home or away.

Choose the right bed.A good bed is truly the foundation of good sleep. When guests inquire about our amazing beds, we are happy to share our secret with them: an eco-friendly luxury sleep system from our partner Nature’s Spa. This sustainable sleep system includes a natural, hypoallergenic latex mattress and pillows, plus our luxurious bedding and linens.

Keep it cool.Here on the farm, we’re big believers in sleeping with fresh air, so we often recommend cracking the windows all year long. Science backs us up: keeping your room temperature cool can help you sleep more soundly.

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COMETOGETHER

Inspired by the great rural halls of the past, our beautiful new Bramble Hall

brings people together for unforgettable music, productive business retreats, joyous

celebrations and everything in between.

SEASONED EXECUTIVES CAN TELL YOU: ENVIRONMENT IS EVERYTHING IN PLANNING A

good business retreat. Perhaps that’s why doing business at Blackberry Farm has always been so successful. Bramble Hall, our handsome event center, plays gracious host to gatherings that inspire, refresh and connect. With the Smoky Mountains as a backdrop and our signature hospitality, our farm makes a great place to come together and find new perspectives. Now that we’ve officially opened Bramble Hall, our business offerings have expanded. Flexible enough to accommodate groups of a few dozen or a few hundred, Bramble Hall features a range of thoughtfully-designed meeting rooms and event spaces, equipped with state-of-the-art audio, visual and lighting.

All in aDAY’S WORK

Whether you need a place for a strategic planning session or a week-long team retreat, inspiration is everywhere you turn at Bramble Hall. Settle in for a productive discussion in a luxurious, laidback meeting space. Break for a beautiful walk on property, followed by a lunch of vibrant Foothills Cuisine. Tackle an exhilarating adventure to bond with your team—or, return to the Hall refreshed and ready to work. We can’t predict what will come of your next business gathering at Blackberry Farm, but the results are bound to be good.

WHETHER YOU NEED A PLACE FOR A STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION OR A WEEK-LONG TEAM RETREAT, INSPIRATION IS EVERYWHERE YOU TURN AT BRAMBLE HALL.

After a remarkable grand opening month in August, we can’t wait to enjoy some fan favorites in Bramble Hall this season. Concerts from our stages are nothing short of magical. As these concerts

sell out almost instantly, be sure to call 800.557.8864 to reserve your spot or add your name to the waitlist!

Little Big Town DECEMBER 11

With multiple awards and platinum albums under

their belt, Little Big Town has topped charts and packed stadiums—but

nothing compares to the rare, intimate performance you’ll hear them bring to

our stage at Bramble Hall.

PLAY ON

John Hiatt OCTOBER 27

Described as “one of rock’s most astute singer-

songwriters,” the legendary John Hiatt is coming to share

his unique blend of new wave, blues and country. Don’t miss a rare concert

from a pioneering musician who has influenced so many.

Luke Bryan NOVEMBER 10

Country singer Luke Bryan is always a Blackberry

favorite! The chart-topping, award-winning artist is known for his rollicking,

‘good times’ tunes that become instant classics. His sold-out concert is sure to be a blast.

homefor the holidays

Sometimes, planning a perfect family holiday simply starts by gathering everyone under the same roof—which is a breeze now, thanks to our newly-renovated Guest House. This beautiful, 9-bedroom home was just renovated and features the same luxurious Blackberry design you love. Large enough to hold almost any group of family or friends, the Guest House makes a perfect place to ‘come home’ for the holidays—with none of the work or stress.

With the Guest House as your basecamp, you and your loved ones can settle in for a special holiday with plenty of room to sprawl and lounge. Share a game of cards in the living room. Retreat to your own bedroom to relax after a full day of adventure. Walk over to The Dogwood—just a few steps away—for a family meal. Most importantly? Make memories together. That’s the perfect holiday we all picture. Call our Reservations Team to book the Guest House for your holiday stay.

THINK ABOUT THANKSGIVING. PICTURE CHRISTMAS. DID A CLASSIC HOLIDAY TABLE SURROUNDED BY FAMILY COME TO MIND? ARE YOU IMAGINING COZY NIGHTS TOGETHER BY A CRACKLING FIRE?

THE HAPPIEST WAY TO HOLIDAYFrom December 12 to December 23, we’ll be hosting a variety of fun, sentimental and memorable holiday activities for the season! Join us and make some treasured memories.

RENÉ REDZEPI FEBRUARY 2–5

We’re bringing one of the most influential chefs in the world to Walland. Chef René Redzepi, of the Michelin-starred restaurant Noma, forever changed culinary culture when he ushered in the New Nordic movement, characterized by its purity, simplicity and seasonality. This sold-out event is sure to be an unforgettable glimpse of one of the world’s most brilliant minds.

FOXHUNTING JANUARY 13–15, FEBRUARY 10–12, MARCH 3–5

Mounted foxhunting is steeped in tradition and thrilling to both riders and spectators. Each of our three hunt weekends is a bit different, with a variety of ceremony, dining and hunting experiences offered. Whether you’re planning to be in the saddle or on the sidelines, come see why foxhunting has been a lasting tradition for centuries.

TASTE OF THE SOUTH JANUARY 5–8

Taste of the South is our annual salute to the voices and hands shaping the South’s rich food traditions—and evolving future. It’s also an incredible party that benefits the Southern Foodways Alliance. This year’s sold-out gathering includes Chefs Mashama Bailey, Eduardo Jordan, Rodney Scott and Ryan Prewitt, along with Wine Importer Frederick Corriher and Scholar-in-residence Louis Elie.

NEW YEAR’S EVE DECEMBER 31

Ring in the New Year with champagne, special tasting menus, great music and a shower of balloons at the stroke of midnight. Then, look ahead with an indulgent trip to the Wellhouse or a glass of wine in view of the Great Smoky Mountains. Your New Year’s weekend at Blackberry Farm will set the tone for the year to come.

ALABAMA CHANIN JANUARY 27–29

Join Founder Natalie Chanin of the legendary Alabama Chanin studio for an intimate sewing workshop that includes stitching instruction, guided sewing sessions and beautiful meals showcasing Blackberry Farm cuisine. This is a wonderful opportunity to ‘learn from the master,’ no matter your skill level.

CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 22–26

Delight in the wonder of Blackberry Farm during the most wonderful time of the year. From twinkling lights and trimmed trees to Santa snacks and snuggly blankets, our team handles all the details, leaving nothing for you to do but make memories with those you love most.

CALL OUR RESERVATIONS TEAM TO SCHEDULE YOUR WINTER GETAWAY.

800.557.8864

N .o1HOTEL FOR FOOD LOVERS

WINTER RETREATTry a Winter stay once and we bet you’ll want to make it a regular tradition! This quiet, beautiful season offers plenty

of chances to lounge by the fire, relax at The Wellhouse or seek out a mountain adventure. Stay January through

March and enjoy our annual Winter rates.

B O O K Y O U R W I N T E R S TAY

800.557.8864

BLACKBERRY BY MAIL Our annual publications, the FarmStead Catalog and The Blackberry Year, are slated to arrive this Fall!