How To Build The Ultimate Christmas Cheeseboard

Creating the ultimate cheeseboard is all about bringing together flavour, texture and festive flair in one irresistible offering. Depending on whether the gathering is cosy and small or big and grand, a cheeseboard can behave however you want it to. It can be a substantial snack, an indulgent lunch or a single course. All you need to do is unwrap your favourite cheeses, find them some vibrant accompaniments and present the combination in a way that feels abundant and Christmassy.

Here, we share our top tips for the ultimate Christmas cheeseboard.

The Cheese

Nettlebed Creamery’s Trio of Cheeses, £38


To source the actual cheeses for your board, look no further than Nettlebed Creamery in Oxfordshire. At this family farm, they make three award-winning organic artisan cheeses, Bix, Witheridge in Hay and Highmoor, that each bring something different to the party.

The Crackers

The Fine Cheese Co’s All Butter Crackers Selection Box, £10.10


You’d be amazed by how divisive the humble cheese cracker is. As every person has their loyalty to a particular type, a selection box is the only way to go at Christmas. We love this one from The Fine Cheese Co because each biscuit is as delicious as the illustrations on the box.

The Chutney

Daylesford’s Organic Fig Apple & Balsamic Chutney, £9.50


Of all the chutneys in all the world, this is the one to buy to elevate your cheeseboard. Made using a reduction of figs and apples that is blended with balsamic, it has the perfect mix of sweet and tart that helps every cheese sing. And, after all, nobody does a pantry staple with more fanfare than Daylesford.

The Board

Fortnum & Mason’s Long Walnut Cheeseboard, £49.95


It doesn’t make sense to put all this effort into your comestibles while ignoring your presentation. Invest in something like this beautiful cheeseboard, made of sustainably sourced North American black walnut, and you will be giving yourself a gift to last a lifetime. At 50cms, it packs a real punch and makes room for all of your bounteousness. (If you are truly dedicated to this cause, you will only ever wash the board by hand and you will treat it about once a month with walnut oil.)

The Knife

Borough Kitchen’s Triangle Cheese Knife in Plum Wood, £39


A beautifully crafted tool, this cheese knife combines form and function. Those in the know love its thin, lightly serrated blade that slices cleanly through soft or hard cheese and the fact that its cut-outs prevent sticking. With a smart FSC plum wood handle, it is the perfect addition to your festive cheese board.