Holiday hosting does not need to be complicated. With three great cheeses, a few tasty accents, and a couple of Beringer wines, you can build a board that looks beautiful and feels generous.
1) Pick your trio of cheeses
Choose one from each style for balance.
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Creamy: Triple-cream Brie
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Tangy: Fresh goat cheese (chèvre)
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Aged: 18–24 month Gouda or sharp white cheddar
Plan about 2 ounces of cheese per person.
2) Add accents and texture
Think sweet, salty, crunchy, and fresh.
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Fruits: Fresh figs, apple or pear slices, dried apricots
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Crunch: Marcona almonds, candied or salted pecans
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Condiments: Local honey, fig jam, whole-grain mustard
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Snacks: Quality crackers and sliced baguette
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Little treats: Dark chocolate squares
3) Build the board
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Place cheeses first at 12, 4, and 8 o’clock for balance.
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Add small bowls for honey, jam, and nuts.
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Fan crackers and bread in a few spots.
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Tuck fruit and chocolate to add color.
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Finish with fresh herbs like rosemary for a seasonal touch.
4) Style like a pro
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Set cheeses out 30 minutes before serving.
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Pre-slice a few pieces to invite that first bite.
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Give each cheese its own knife.
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Use odd numbers for garnishes for a natural look.
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Leave a little negative space so the board does not feel crowded.
Wines to pour with your board
A few Beringer favorites that play beautifully with this spread.
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2023 Private Reserve Napa Valley Chardonnay
Creamy texture and bright acidity make a great match with triple-cream Brie, honey, and Marcona almonds. -
2022 Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Dark fruit and structure pair well with aged Gouda or sharp cheddar. Try a square of dark chocolate on the side. -
2021 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
A showstopper for richer bites and aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or 24-month Gouda. A special pour for the holiday table.
Tip: For a crowd, plan at least half a bottle of wine per guest and keep one extra chilled white on hand.
