Crafting the Perfect Holiday Cheese Board: A Symphony of Flavors and Textures

The Food Co-op resident elf on the shelf assembles a beautiful charcuterie board

'Tis the season for celebration, and what better way to indulge in the festivities than with a show-stopping holiday cheese board? In this guide, we'll not only explore an array of exquisite cheeses but also incorporate complementary delights to create a culinary masterpiece that will delight your guests. Let's embark on a journey to craft the perfect holiday cheese board.

1. Mimolette: The French Pumpkin Cheese, France
   Picture a bright orange sphere that resembles a pumpkin – that's Mimolette for you. Hailing from the Gouda family, this cheese boasts a nutty and caramel-like flavor profile. Its vibrant color will add a pop of festive cheer to your cheese board.

2. Barely Buzzed: A Real Looker from Beehive Cheese, Utah
   Barely Buzzed is not just a cheese; it's a work of art. Handcrafted by Beehive Cheese, this cheddar beauty is rubbed with a blend of coffee and lavender, creating a unique sensory experience. Its distinctive appearance and bold flavors make it a conversation starter.

3. Acme Camembert: A Mushroomy Cream Bomb from Acme, WA
   Elevate your cheese board with the decadent Acme Camembert. A mushroomy cream bomb, this cheese offers a rich and luscious texture. Consider leaving it whole as the centerpiece, allowing guests to savor its indulgent taste.

4. Glacier Blue: Cascadia Creamery's Organic Gem from Trout Lake, WA
   For a taste of luxury, include the Glacier Blue from Cascadia Creamery. Made with raw milk and organic ingredients, this blue cheese rivals the renowned British Stilton. Its creamy texture and bold flavor will add depth to your holiday spread.

5. Chimatomme: Raw Goat Cheese from Chimacum Valley Dairy
   Keep it local with Chimatomme, a raw goat cheese that captures the essence of your region. The freshness and unique characteristics of this cheese contribute to a well-rounded cheese board that reflects the flavors of the land.

6. Smokey Scamorza: A Pear-shaped Delight from Ferndale Farm, Ferndale, WA
   Add a touch of drama to your cheese board with Smokey Scamorza. Aged and smoked to perfection, this pear-shaped beauty comes with a string attached, making it a visually stunning and flavorful addition to your festive spread.

7. Meredith Dairy: “The Crack of Cheese” from Australia
   Indulge your guests with the irresistible Meredith Dairy, marinated sheep/goat cheese in olive oil. Encased in a handsome jar, this cheese has earned its reputation as “the crack of cheese,” leaving a lasting impression with its complex flavors.

Consider these accompaniments to add flavor, texture, and color to your board:

1. Apples and Persimmons: A Fresh Fruit Symphony
   Introduce a burst of freshness with sliced apples and persimmons, offering a sweet and crisp contrast to the richness of the cheeses.

2. Katfish Salmon Co Smoked Salmon: A Local Favorite
   Elevate your board with the exquisite flavor of smoked salmon from Katfish Salmon Co, adding a touch of sophistication and a hint of the sea.

3. Salami from Olli Salumeria: A Savory Delight
   Incorporate the rich and savory notes of salami from Olli Salumeria, providing a perfect pairing with the various cheeses on the board.

4. Divina Muffuletta Olive Salad: A Flavorful Medley
   Delight your taste buds with the vibrant and tangy flavors of the Divina Muffuletta Olive Salad, adding a burst of Mediterranean flair to your spread.

5. Rustic Bakery Artisan Crisps: The Perfect Crunch That Comes in Four Varieties
   Complete the ensemble with Rustic Bakery Artisan Crisps, offering a crispy base to showcase the diverse flavors of the cheeses and accompaniments.

6. St. Agrestis Non-Alcoholic Phony Negroni and Phony Mezcal Negroni: Elegant Mocktails
   Elevate the festive spirit with St. Agrestis' Non-Alcoholic Phony Negroni and Phony Mezcal Negroni, providing an elegant and alcohol-free alternative for your guests to enjoy.

7. Sourdough Baguette from The Grainery
   Organic, rich and chewy this local bread is made with grain grown and milled in the heart of Chimacum.

With a curated selection of cheeses and thoughtfully chosen accompaniments, your holiday cheese board is bound to be a visual and culinary masterpiece. Celebrate the season with an array of flavors and textures that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Happy holidays and happy cheeseboarding!