Building the Perfect Wine and Cheese Day!
Honestly, even if there wasn’t a 'National Wine and Cheese Day,' we’d still celebrate it as much as we did. The combination of cheese and wine will always be a classic dating from centuries back, and yet, even centuries later, it’s still a sensation that we continue to indulge in. Why? Because their flavors are truly a match made in heaven! It's a captivating experience for our senses and taste buds indeed. Let’s celebrate tomorrow with this guide!
- Gather your cheese selection!
The first essential step in building the perfect wine and cheese day is finding the perfect selection of cheese. Do your research in your area or visit your trusted shops for all things cheesy! Get a diverse selection of cheese with various textures and flavors, offering a wide range of intensities. Classics like Brie, Goat Cheese, Cheddar, and Gouda should always have a place on the table, but you can also expand your horizons and try those you haven't experienced yet. If your area crafts its own gourmet cheese, even better! You get to support local businesses too.
- Find the perfect wine!
Between you and me, you absolutely know where to find the best selection of wine – it's here on this website, of course! Explore our world of wine and delve into the art of finding the right one to complement your selection of cheese from the very beginning. The general rule of thumb is to pair lighter wines with milder cheeses and stronger, full-bodied wines with more robust cheeses. For example, Montrouge Sauvignon Blanc beautifully with fresh goat cheese, while a rich Handpicked Collection Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the flavors of aged Gouda.
- Get creative with the ambiance!
Let all your creative juices flow because this is your event, and you can set the ambiance with your vision in mind. Set up a dedicated space for tasting, whether it's during the day or at night. You can create a cute and cozy garden setup in your backyard for a daytime arrangement, or opt for a classy and elegant vibe for an evening gathering. The choice is yours! Use a wooden or marble cheese board to showcase your cheese selection, and label each cheese with a description to guide your guests. Don't forget to include a variety of crackers, bread, and fresh fruits to cleanse the palate between tastings.
- Explore pairing techniques!
If you're feeling a little lost, stick to the basics and simple techniques. Start with the mildest cheese and gradually work your way up to the most intense. Similarly, pair the mildest cheese with the lightest wine and progress from there. This way, you can fully appreciate the flavors of your pairings. Take small sips of wine in between each cheese to cleanse your palate. Pay attention to the texture, aroma, and taste of each combination, and let your senses guide you to the perfect pairing. Take note of what you like and what you don't. Make it a personal experience!
- Be adventurous!
Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try new combinations. Classics are amazing, but discovering hidden gems is even more exciting! Experiment with different types of cheeses and wines to discover unexpected pairings that delight your palate. Be adventurous and explore new flavors, so you can expand your knowledge as well!
- Post your experience!
Whether on your Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, share your experience online and let us know your favorite pairings! Set a hashtag for everyone to follow, so you can keep track of how your guests felt about your event. This can inspire others to organize their own Wine and Cheese Day, even if it doesn’t fall on the national celebratory day itself. We’d love to be in the loop as well, so feel free to tag us!
- Enjoy the day!
After the setup and buildup, don't forget to enjoy your day! Wine and cheese days, or nights, are meant for unwinding and stimulating your senses. Indulge in each bite and sip, and enjoy the company of the best people. Just as there are perfect pairs in wine and cheese, savor the blend of people around you.