Valentine’s Day Cheese and Wine

Name: Valentine’s Day Cheese and Wine
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 1 wheel Brie cheese; 100g aged cheddar; 100g blue cheese; 1 cup assorted crackers; 1 cup mixed nuts; Fresh fruits (grapes, figs, or apples); 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot); 1 bottle of white wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)

Highlighted under: Festive Season Recipes

I love celebrating Valentine’s Day with a delightful cheese and wine pairing. It’s a simple yet intimate way to show someone you care. Choosing the right cheeses to complement your favorite wines creates a memorable experience. Whether it's a classic Brie or a sharp aged cheddar, the flavors intertwine beautifully. We have crafted this selection to ensure balance and variety, keeping it enjoyable and surprising. Nothing beats sharing a platter while sipping wine, basking in the warmth of each other’s company.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-17T15:05:27.953Z

When we first started experimenting with cheese and wine pairings at home, we realized that the key was in balancing flavors. I remember one particular evening spent with friends, trying various combinations. The sharpness of a blue cheese can surprisingly enhance the fruitiness of a red wine, creating a delightful contrast that we all loved.

One tip I’d like to share is to always include a variety of textures and flavors on your cheese board. Creamy cheeses like goat cheese contrast beautifully with harder cheeses like Parmigiano. Consider adding some nuts and fruits to elevate the experience further. We found that the more combinations, the more fun we had!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        An exquisite selection of cheeses to thrill your taste buds
Charming atmosphere with minimal prep required
A perfect blend of flavors that excites wine lovers

      

Choosing Cheeses

When selecting cheeses for your platter, aim for a diverse range of flavors and textures. A creamy Brie pairs beautifully with a fragrant Cabernet Sauvignon, while a crumbly blue cheese offers a sharp contrast that stands up well to a rich Merlot. Don't forget aged cheddar; its nutty complexity complements both wines seamlessly, enhancing your tasting experience. Experiment with local artisanal cheeses as well for unique flavors that may surprise your palate.

Texture plays a crucial role in the enjoyment of cheese. For this pairing, consider including cheeses that vary in density and moisture. For instance, the soft Brie acts as a luscious counterpoint to the firmer aged cheddar. Adding a blue cheese not only diversifies the texture but also introduces a piquant bite that many find irresistible. Balance these creamy and crumbly selections with drier accompaniments like nuts and crackers, which provide a satisfying crunch.

Plating Artfully

Presentation can elevate your cheese and wine experience to new heights. Use a large wooden serving board to create a rustic feel. Start by placing the cheese wheels in strategic positions to create balance. Cut small wedges from the Brie and arrange them next to the aged cheddar, allowing guests to easily sample them. Surround the cheeses with colorful fruits such as ripe figs and sliced apples, which add both visual appeal and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheeses.

When arranging your platter, consider color and shape. For example, clusters of fresh grapes can soften the look of the platter while providing a sweet twist. Group similar items together—place crackers in one section and nuts in another—for easy grazing. Remember, the goal is to create an inviting spread that encourages conversation and sharing; so make sure the items are easily accessible. A beautiful platter also serves as a conversation starter, enhancing the romantic atmosphere of the evening.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a wonderful cheese and wine experience:

Cheeses and Accompaniments

1 wheel Brie cheese
100g aged cheddar
100g blue cheese
1 cup assorted crackers
1 cup mixed nuts
Fresh fruits (grapes, figs, or apples)

Wine Pairing

1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
1 bottle of white wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)

Be creative with your combinations and enjoy the process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble the perfect cheese and wine platter:

Select the Cheese

Choose a variety of cheeses that offer different textures and flavors. Consider balancing creamy, tangy, and sharp cheeses for the best experience.

Arrange the Platter

On a large wooden board, arrange the cheeses in a visually appealing way. Add crackers, nuts, and fresh fruits around them for variety.

Pour the Wine

Select your favorite red and white wines. Pour them into glasses and let them breathe for a few minutes to enhance the flavors.

Enjoy Together

Gather around the platter, taste each cheese with the selected wine, and enjoy the lovely evening together.

Take your time to savor each bite and sip as you enjoy the romantic atmosphere.

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences. Adding honey or a spicy chutney can also elevate the flavor profiles of your cheese board.

Wine Selection Tips

Choosing the right wine is just as important as selecting the perfect cheeses. A full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon works well with the creaminess of the Brie and the sharpness of the cheddar, while a bright, zesty Sauvignon Blanc can cut through the richness of the blue cheese. I recommend chilling your white wine for about 30 minutes prior to serving; this helps invigorate the fresh notes and keeps it enjoyable alongside the cheeses.

If you're unsure about the wine pairings, consider offering one red and one white to cater to different tastes. For the adventurous, you could also include a sparkling wine—its effervescence can cleanse the palate beautifully between cheese tastings. Always remember to taste the wine with each cheese to discover new flavor dimensions that enhance your overall experience.

Make-Ahead Ideas

For a stress-free Valentine's Day, consider preparing your cheese board a few hours in advance. Slice your softer cheeses, such as Brie, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Assemble the crackers, nuts, and fruits in separate containers, keeping them fresh until it's time to serve. This way, when your special evening arrives, all you have to do is arrange everything on the board and pour the wine. It's as effortless as it is enjoyable.

Additionally, if you have leftover cheeses after your romantic evening, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Most hard cheeses can last several weeks if stored properly. Soft cheeses like Brie should be consumed within a few days but can still provide a delicious treat for your next wine tasting or gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ What cheeses work best for a cheese and wine pairing?

A mix of soft, hard, and blue cheeses like Brie, aged cheddar, and gorgonzola create a delightful variety.

→ How should I serve the cheese?

Let the cheese come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

→ Can I use any type of wine?

Yes! But it's best to match bold flavors with bolder wines and lighter cheeses with crisp whites.

→ How do I choose the right crackers?

Select plain or lightly flavored crackers that won’t overpower the taste of the cheeses.