2023 Christmas Cheese Boards - 10 Best Christmas Cheeses
A Christmas Cheese Board 2023
Step into the enchanting world of Christmas delights, where festivity knows no bounds, and Christmas cheese board dreams take flight. As the holiday season approaches, our hearts brim with anticipation for the grand feasts, soirées, and intimate gatherings that await. Amidst the jingle bells and the aromatic whispers of freshly baked treats, there's one culinary treasure that truly stands out—cheese. Now, not all of us have the privilege of living down the street from a charming artisanal cheese shop, where the cheesemonger knows your name and craftily curates your desires. That's where the magic of the online cheese world comes into play. In this whimsical journey, we're about to unveil the top 10 cheese treasures that will elevate your Christmas cheese board to a sublime masterpiece. But here's the catch: Our number one pick won't be available until the 14th of November. Trust us; you won't want to delay securing this cheesy gem, as last year's frenzy left us with empty cheese boards and cheesy dreams unfulfilled. So, fasten your seatbelts, dear cheese connoisseurs, as we embark on a delectable adventure filled with anticipation, flavour, and the sweet pursuit of cheese perfection. 🧀🎄✨
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Baron Bigod with Truffles
Baron Bigod with Truffles is a truly exceptional cheese that adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any Christmas cheese board.
Carefully crafted with precision, our Baron Bigod with Truffles cheese is a true delight for your Christmas cheese board. This exquisite cheese starts with the indulgent Baron Bigod as its foundation, lovingly handmade on a traditional Suffolk farm, celebrated for its sumptuously rich, soft, and buttery texture.
What sets our Baron Bigod with Truffles apart is the infusion of finely shaved black truffles that run through its creamy core. These truffles are renowned for their intense flavour and captivating aroma, creating a harmonious pairing with the cheese's luscious profile.
When featured on your Christmas cheese board, Baron Bigod with Truffles becomes an instant crowd-pleaser. Its velvety texture practically melts in your mouth, while the truffle infusion imparts an earthy, umami depth that's both captivating and indulgent.
The distinct, heady aroma of truffles adds a sense of opulence to your cheese selection, making it a perfect choice for the festive season. Whether enjoyed on a crisp cracker, paired with fresh fruits, or savoured on its own, Baron Bigod with Truffles is a gourmet delight that elevates your holiday cheese board to a whole new level.
Its luxurious flavour and decadent texture make it a memorable addition to your Christmas festivities, ensuring your guests relish every moment of this culinary masterpiece. Baron Bigod with Truffles - a cheese that embodies the spirit of Christmas indulgence.
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2. Smoked Tuxford and Tebbutt Stilton PDO
Discover the exceptional qualities of Smoked Tuxford and Tebbutt Stilton PDO, a cheese that adds a distinctive charm to your Christmas cheese board. This remarkable cheese seamlessly marries the bold and tangy flavors of traditional Stilton with the rich, smoky notes of oak wood, creating a true masterpiece.
Crafted with precision and care, Smoked Tuxford and Tebbutt Stilton PDO offers a delightful twist on the beloved British classic. Beginning with the signature creamy and crumbly texture that Stilton is renowned for, this cheese is made using time-honored methods and aged to perfection, resulting in a velvety mouthfeel that melts in your mouth.
What truly sets Smoked Tuxford and Tebbutt Stilton apart is the infusion of a smoky, woody essence that adds depth and complexity to its profile. Through a meticulous smoking process, this cheese gains a unique smokiness that harmoniously complements its natural flavours. The result is a perfectly balanced symphony of creamy, tangy, and smoky notes that dance on your palate with every delectable bite.
Smoked Tuxford and Tebbutt Stilton PDO is a versatile addition to your Christmas cheese board. Its robust flavours make it an ideal companion for crusty artisanal bread, crackers, or oatcakes. The intriguing smokiness also enhances charcuterie boards, pairing beautifully with cured meats and smoked salmon. For an elevated experience, serve it alongside fresh fruits like pears or apples, their sweetness providing a delightful contrast to the cheese's richness.
To truly elevate your tasting experience, pair this exceptional cheese with a glass of red wine, such as a robust port or a fruity Zinfandel. Smoked Tuxford and Tebbutt Stilton PDO complements the wine's complexity with its savoury, smoky character, creating a memorable flavour combination.
Whether taking the spotlight on your cheeseboard or enhancing your culinary creations, this cheese is certain to impress with its exceptional taste and unique smoky twist on a cherished classic. Smoked Tuxford and Tebbutt Stilton PDO - the perfect addition to elevate your Christmas festivities.
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3. Isle of Mull Cheddar
Isle of Mull Cheddar - A Taste of Scotland's Finest
Elevate your Christmas cheese board with the distinguished Isle of Mull Cheddar, a true gem from the stunning Isle of Mull in Scotland. Crafted with utmost care and expertise, this artisanal cheddar is celebrated for its rich, robust flavour and exceptional quality.
Sourced from the island's dairy cows, which graze on lush maritime pastures, Isle of Mull Cheddar benefits from the unique terroir of the region, lending it a character that's second to none. Its crumbly yet creamy texture is irresistibly moreish, and its flavour profile is a harmonious blend of nuttiness, earthiness, and a subtle tang. As it ages, this cheddar develops a delightful complexity that culminates in a connoisseur's dream.
Versatile and perfect for your Christmas festivities, Isle of Mull Cheddar pairs wonderfully with an array of accompaniments. Consider the following delightful options:
Wine and Whisky: This cheddar complements both red and white wines, as well as fine Scotch whisky. Opt for a robust red wine or a smoky single malt for a classic pairing.
Artisanal Bread: A must on your cheese board, artisanal bread with its crusty exterior and soft interior provides the perfect canvas for crafting personalized cheese and bread masterpieces.
Pickled Gherkins or Onions: Add a zesty twist to your spread with these tangy delights that infuse bursts of flavour.
Fresh Fruits: Include slices of crisp apples and juicy pears to balance the richness of Isle of Mull Cheddar with their refreshing sweetness.
Isle of Mull Cheddar is the embodiment of traditional cheesemaking craftsmanship. Its exceptional taste and versatility make it an excellent choice for your Christmas cheese board, whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of accompaniments. Be prepared to delight your guests and elevate your festive celebrations with this remarkable cheese.
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4. Vacherousse d'Argental
Indulge in the Opulence of Vacherousse d'Argental
Transport your Christmas cheese board to the picturesque Rhône-Alpes region of France with the sumptuous Vacherousse d'Argental. This exquisite cheese boasts a luxurious, velvety texture and a rich, buttery flavor that sets it apart as a standout addition to your holiday spread.
Crafted with meticulous precision and expertise, Vacherousse d'Argental is a triple-cream, cow's milk cheese that undergoes careful aging. This process results in a soft, bloomy rind that reveals a lusciously creamy interior. So smooth is its texture that it practically melts in your mouth, delivering an unparalleled indulgence.
The flavour profile of Vacherousse d'Argental harmoniously combines sweet, milky notes with a subtle earthiness, enriched by a delicate tang that adds depth to its overall taste. This cheese strikes the perfect balance between decadence and sophistication, earning its place as a crowd-pleaser during the holiday season.
To create an unforgettable Christmas cheese board featuring Vacherousse d'Argental, consider pairing it with these delightful accompaniments:
**Fresh Berries:** The sweet, tart flavours of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or grapes complement the cheese's richness, adding a festive touch to your presentation.
**Honey:** Drizzle a touch of local honey over a portion of Vacherousse d'Argental for a delightful sweet and savoury combination that tantalizes the palate.
**Fig or Apricot Preserves:** These fruity preserves provide a delightful contrast with the creamy cheese, infusing each bite with a burst of flavour.
**Sparkling Wine:** Elevate the experience with a glass of Champagne or sparkling wine, perfectly complementing the indulgent nature of Vacherousse d'Argental.
This cheese is a testament to the artistry of French cheesemaking and is certain to leave a lasting impression on your guests during the festive season. It's velvety texture and rich flavor make it an excellent choice for your Christmas cheese board, adding an air of decadence and elegance to your holiday gatherings.
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5. Godminster Organic Cheddar
Elevate Your Christmas Cheese Board with Godminster Organic Cheddar
Experience cheese fit for royalty with Godminster Organic Cheddar, a regal addition to your festive cheese spread. Straight from the lush pastures of Somerset, England, this cheese is meticulously crafted, embodying the essence of organic, artisanal cheesemaking.
This exceptional cheddar is lovingly created from certified organic milk sourced from local dairy farms, where cows graze freely on pesticide-free pastures, resulting in rich and flavorful milk. Aged for up to 12 months, Godminster Organic Cheddar develops a delightful complexity of flavors and a crumbly yet creamy texture.
Its taste is a testament to its outstanding quality, offering a well-balanced profile with nutty undertones, a touch of sweet creaminess, and a subtle tang. Its firm texture allows for easy slicing or crumbling, making it versatile for various serving styles.
To craft a divine Christmas cheese board featuring Godminster Organic Cheddar, consider pairing it with these delectable accompaniments:
**Honeycomb:** Drizzle honey or include a chunk of honeycomb to enhance the cheese's sweetness, adding a luxurious touch to your presentation.
**Red Wine:** Complement the cheddar's depth of flavor with a robust red wine, such as Bordeaux or Merlot, infusing an element of sophistication into your festive spread.
Godminster Organic Cheddar encapsulates the essence of traditional English cheesemaking, and its rich, nuanced flavors make it an excellent choice for your Christmas cheese board. Whether savored on its own or accompanied by these delightful pairings, it is certain to be a highlight of your holiday gathering, leaving your guests delighted and satisfied.
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6. Cabri D'Ici
Elevate Your Christmas Cheese Board with Cabri D'Ici Goat Cheese
Add a touch of French elegance to your Christmas cheese board with Cabri D'Ici, a delightful artisanal goat cheese that embodies the essence of traditional French cheesemaking. Hailing from the heart of France, this cheese is meticulously crafted using time-honored techniques, resulting in a creamy, surface-ripened delight with a pristine white interior.
Made exclusively from 100% goat's milk, Cabri D'Ici boasts a unique flavor profile. Its taste is an exquisite fusion of earthy, herbaceous, and slightly tangy notes. With a creamy and luscious texture, it is an ideal choice for spreading on crusty bread or pairing with an array of accompaniments.
To curate an unforgettable Christmas cheese board starring Cabri D'Ici, consider these complementary ingredients:
Fresh Herbs: Sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme infuse a fragrant touch that harmonizes beautifully with the cheese's herbaceous undertones.
Fig Jam: A dollop of fig jam imparts delightful sweetness, balancing the cheese's tanginess and adding a festive flair.
Baguette Slices: Crusty baguette slices serve as the perfect canvas for savoring Cabri D'Ici's creamy texture and exquisite flavor.
Pomegranate Seeds: A scattering of ruby-red pomegranate seeds not only adds a burst of color but also provides a juicy, sweet-tart contrast to the cheese.
Sparkling Wine: A crisp and bubbly Champagne or sparkling wine serves as an elegant accompaniment, elevating the overall tasting experience.
Cabri D'Ici's distinct flavor and creamy consistency make it an exquisite addition to your holiday cheese board. Its French charm and versatility ensure it will be a crowd-pleaser among your guests. With these thoughtfully selected accompaniments, you can create a Christmas cheese board that highlights the best of this French delicacy, leaving everyone savoring the festive spirit.
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7. Yorkshire Blue
Elevate Your Christmas Cheese Board with Yorkshire Blue by Alex James of Blur
Indulge in the exquisite British blue cheese, Yorkshire Blue, lovingly crafted on Alex James's farm in the picturesque county of Yorkshire, England. This artisanal cheese promises a delightful fusion of creamy textures and bold, tangy flavours, making it the perfect addition to your festive cheese board.
Flavour Profile: Yorkshire Blue showcases an inviting ivory-coloured interior adorned with vibrant blue veins. Its flavour profile is both rich and robust, harmonizing creamy, buttery notes with a tangy, slightly spicy kick characteristic of blue cheeses. This cheese achieves a remarkable balance between creamy sweetness and complex, earthy undertones.
Texture: The texture of Yorkshire Blue is luxuriously creamy, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that beautifully contrasts with the sharpness of its blue veins.
Aroma: As you approach Yorkshire Blue, you'll be greeted by a distinctive aroma that hints at the cheese's piquant character. The scent is both inviting and intriguing, offering a preview of the complex flavours that await.
Pairing: Yorkshire Blue is a versatile cheese that can take centre stage on your Christmas Cheese Board. Here are some delectable pairings to enhance its flavours:
- Fruit: Serve Yorkshire Blue alongside fresh slices of juicy pears or crisp apples to balance the cheese's boldness with a touch of sweetness.
- Chutney: A dollop of fig or cranberry chutney provides a delightful contrast of sweet and savory notes, elevating the cheese's complexity.
- Red Wine: Complement Yorkshire Blue with a glass of robust red wine, such as a Merlot or Shiraz, to intensify its flavours.
- Port: For a truly festive touch, pair Yorkshire Blue with a fine Port wine, creating an irresistible combination of richness and elegance.
Presentation: When featuring Yorkshire Blue on your Christmas Cheese Board, consider presenting it in wedges or cubes for easy accessibility. Arrange it alongside the suggested pairings, allowing the vibrant marbling and creamy texture to take centre stage. Your guests are certain to appreciate this luxurious addition to your holiday spread, crafted with care right on Alex James's farm.
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8. Cabra Carino
Cabra Carino: The 2022 Christmas Cheese Sensation
In 2022, Cabra Carino, a Spanish goat's milk cheese, soared to unprecedented popularity, emerging as a top choice for Christmas gatherings. Hailing from the picturesque regions of Spain, this cheese has garnered acclaim for its exceptional blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal addition to your Christmas Cheese Board.
Why the Christmas Craze in 2022?
Cabra Carino's meteoric rise to cheese stardom during the 2022 holiday season can be attributed to several compelling factors:
1. Unique Flavour: Cabra Carino distinguishes itself with its captivating fusion of tangy and nutty notes, tantalizing the taste buds with every bite. Its flavor is a delightful surprise that never fails to charm.
2. Versatility: This cheese's versatility is a major draw. Whether paired with sweet or savory accompaniments, it effortlessly shines in diverse culinary contexts, making it an instant crowd-pleaser at festive gatherings.
3. Festive Presentation: Cabra Carino's ivory-hued interior, adorned with tiny speckles, not only adds a touch of visual elegance to your cheese platter but also infuses a festive spirit into your holiday spread.
Perfect Pairings:
To enhance the flavors of Cabra Carino on your Christmas Cheese Board, consider these delectable pairings:
- Fresh Fruits: Elevate your platter with slices of ripe figs, grapes, or apple wedges, providing a refreshing contrast to the cheese's tangy profile.
- Honey: A drizzle of honey over Cabra Carino introduces a delightful touch of sweetness that harmoniously complements its nutty undertones.
- Crackers: Select an assortment of artisanal crackers or crusty bread to offer a satisfying crunch and a neutral canvas for the cheese's exquisite flavors to shine.
- Olives: Enhance your cheese board with a selection of briny olives, adding a savory dimension that beautifully complements the cheese's intricate taste.
In 2022, Cabra Carino made a resounding statement on the Christmas cheese scene, captivating palates and earning its place as a cherished holiday tradition. Its unique charm and adaptability promise to elevate your festive celebrations and leave your guests craving more of this culinary gem.
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9. Vacherin Mont D'Or
Vacherin Mont d'Or: A Christmas Cheese Board Star
Vacherin Mont d'Or, affectionately known as Mont d'Or, is the epitome of luxury when it comes to French cheeses, earning its esteemed place on Christmas Cheese Boards worldwide. This cheese is celebrated for its distinct production process and unparalleled flavour.
Crafted with Seasonal Charm:
Vacherin Mont d'Or is lovingly crafted from cow's milk, primarily sourced from the Jura region of France and Switzerland. What sets it apart is its unique production schedule—limited to the winter months when cows are nourished with hay instead of fresh grass. This seasonal diet variation imparts the cheese with its signature flavour and texture.
Savour the Sublime Flavors:
Mont d'Or is renowned for its decadently rich, creamy, and velvety texture. Its flavour profile is characterized by a mild creaminess, reminiscent of fresh cream, with subtle woody undertones drawn from the embrace of spruce bark that encases the cheese. A delicate earthiness further enhances its character.
Texture to Melt Your Heart:
The cheese's texture is a revelation, incredibly creamy and nearly spoonable when perfectly ripe. A gentle cut into the rind releases a luscious outpouring, enticing you to indulge in its opulence.
Wrapped in Spruce Delight:
Vacherin Mont d'Or is traditionally cloaked in a strip of spruce bark, contributing not only a woody aroma but also aiding in preserving the cheese's sumptuous interior.
Why Mont d'Or for Christmas:
Vacherin Mont d'Or embodies indulgence, making it an impeccable choice for the festive season. Here's why it deserves a cherished spot on your Christmas Cheese Board:
1. Seasonal Tradition: Produced exclusively during the winter months, Mont d'Or aligns perfectly with the festive spirit of Christmas, becoming a treasured seasonal delicacy.
2. Creamy Delight: The cheese's luxuriously creamy texture offers a comforting and delightful experience, making it a true holiday treat.
3. Versatile Pairings: Mont d'Or harmonizes beautifully with an array of accompaniments, both sweet and savory, ensuring its versatility as an essential addition to your cheese platter.
Pairing Perfection:
To elevate your Vacherin Mont d'Or experience on your Christmas Cheese Board, consider these pairings:
1. Crusty Bread: Offer slices of baguette or crusty sourdough for spreading and dipping into the cheese's creamy heart.
2. Nuts: A selection of toasted walnuts or hazelnuts provides a delightful crunch and complements the cheese's subtle nutty nuances.
When serving Vacherin Mont d'Or, a simple removal of the top rind allows guests to scoop out the velvety interior with ease. Its irresistible creaminess and delicate flavors will undoubtedly become a cherished highlight of your Christmas celebrations.
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10. Fowlers Sage Derby
Fowlers Sage Derby Cheese: A Christmas Cheese Board Marvel
Fowlers Sage Derby Cheese, known for its striking green marbling, is a visually captivating cheese that elevates the elegance and flavour complexity of your Christmas Cheese Board. Here's why it's a standout selection:
A Symphony of Flavors:
Sage Derby is a semi-hard cow's milk cheese celebrated for its mild, buttery essence. What sets it apart is the infusion of sage leaves during the cheese-crafting process. This infusion imparts subtle earthy and herbaceous notes, accompanied by a delicate hint of peppery spice. The green marbling, a result of the sage leaves, not only adds a visually enchanting contrast but also hints at its intriguing flavour.
Texture That Delights:
This cheese boasts a firm yet crumbly texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel of your cheese board.
Perfect Pairings:
To enhance your Sage Derby experience on your Christmas Cheese Board, consider these delightful pairing options:
White Wine: A crisp and refreshing white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay beautifully complements the mild herbaceous notes of Sage Derby. The wine's acidity and fruity undertones provide a harmonious counterpoint.
Red Wine: For red wine enthusiasts, opt for a light to medium-bodied choice like Pinot Noir. Its red berry flavours and gentle tannins harmonize gracefully with the cheese, allowing both to shine.
Beer: Beer aficionados will appreciate a light and effervescent beer like a wheat beer or lager. These brews refresh the palate and superbly complement the cheese's herbal nuances.
Enhancing the Experience:
Elevate your Sage Derby experience with these delectable accompaniments on your Christmas Cheese Board:
Crackers: Select neutral or whole-grain crackers to provide a stable canvas for the cheese, enhancing its flavours.
Fresh Fruits: Slices of crisp apples or pears introduce a refreshing sweetness that balances the cheese's mild herbiness.
Herb Garnish: Fresh sage leaves or a sprinkle of dried sage can serve as a garnish, adding a pop of colour and an extra layer of sage flavour.
Picture-Perfect Presentation:
Sage Derby's vibrant green marbling makes it a captivating centrepiece on your Christmas Cheese Board. Serve it in wedges or cubes, allowing guests to savour both its appearance and taste.
Including Sage Derby on your cheese board infuses a unique touch that's sure to dazzle your holiday guests. Its mild yet distinctive flavour caters to a wide range of palates, and its festive allure brings a delightful touch of seasonal charm to your spread.