Other than a Cupcake Tasting Party, a Cheese Tasting Party just may be one of my most favorite things. Having a tasting party is a fun way to experiment with new foods and flavors. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a night in with the girls (or guys), a tasting party can be both fun and educational. Plus, since you can prepare most things in advance, it’s an incredibly stress-free way to host a party. It just takes a little planning. I’m here to help with that!
Today I wanted to share six easy steps for hosting a fabulous and fun Cheese Tasting Party.
Let’s get started!
Step One: Buy Some Cheese
Step Two: Set up the Party
Presentation is important, right? Search your house for fun surfaces on which to display the cheese and your other fixins! Cheese is at its tastiest at room temperature so bring your cheese out of the fridge at least an hour before the tasting. Big chunks of cheese look best and retain their freshness. Cutting off a few slices encourages your guests to start tasting.
Tip: I’m a big fan of using neutrals when it comes to displaying food. White platters, slate boards, wood cutting boards, and marble pastry slabs are a few surfaces that really let the food shine!
Cheese is obviously delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with a great cracker or fresh fruit. Offer your guests a variety of accompaniments to pair with the cheese. Suggest some possible flavor combinations, but encourage your guests to come up with their own pairings, too!
Tip: Not sure what to serve with your cheese? Don’t worry! Some of my favorite accompaniments are olives, any fresh fruit or berries, sliced Italian meats, balsamic glaze, nuts, honey, jam and chocolate!
Step Four: Teach How to Properly Taste
Tip: Provide paper and a pen so guests can note their favorite cheese and which flavor pairings they like best.
Tip: Buying wine can be expensive. If your guests ask about bringing something to the party, encourage them to bring a bottle of their favorite wine! Not only will your guests get to taste cheese, they’ll also discover some new wines.
Step Six: Relax and Enjoy
Tip: Ask your guests to send you a list of their favorite songs. Make a playlist specific to your party so each guest can enjoy some of their top tunes! This is a great way for everyone to learn about new artists!
That’s it! My six steps for an unforgettable Cheese Tasting Party! Have you ever hosted a cheese tasting party? What additional advice or tips do you have?
I love this! We will definitely make our next party a cheese party.
Totally! Who doesn’t love a good cheese party!?
xo Michael
FABULOUS! 🙂
Holla! Thanks Courtney. 🙂
xo Michael
I’, so glad to told be that cheese is best served at room temp, nothing worse then ice cold cheese. Love the ideas!
Yes. Absolutely! Thanks so much!
xo Michael
Oooooh! Believe it or not, i’ve never tried Cracker Barrel cheese – it’s def on my next grocery list! Lovin’ this!
What!? Seriously!? It’s a must. My favorite is the Jalapeño!
xo Michael
I hosted a “cheesy party” once for the Eurovision Song Contest. I had cheeses from nearly every country participating, all served on separate plates with cute labels. The party was great fun and my friends still talk about it. Cheese parties are great !
Ooo! That sounds fabulous Saskia. I love a good cheese party!
xo Michael