A festive cheeseboard remains a popular addition to Christmas menus, sharing platters and seasonal entertaining occasions. While wine is often the traditional choice, pairing cheese with Port, beer and sparkling wine can help create memorable experiences and add value to festive serves. To help foodservice operators make more of Christmas, we have rounded up some classic and contemporary cheese pairings worth adding to the menu this season.

What is the Perfect Match for Stilton?

Few festive pairings are as iconic as Stilton and Ruby Port. The fruity sweetness of Port complements the bold character of Stilton, making it a Christmas classic. For foodservice operators looking to offer something different, a rich Stout can provide an equally rewarding alternative.

Top pairing: Ruby Port

What Works Best with Mature Cheddar?

Mature Cheddar remains a cheeseboard staple and pairs well with both wine and beer. Malbec, Rioja, and hoppy IPAs all stand up to the cheese's rich flavour profile and work particularly well on festive grazing boards.

Top pairing: Malbec

Which Drinks Complement Brie?

Soft, creamy cheeses are a natural match for sparkling and crisp drinks. Prosecco, Champagne and Sauvignon Blanc all help cut through the richness of Brie, creating a pairing that is perfect for festive sharing occasions.

Top pairing: Prosecco

What Should You Serve with Red Leicester?

With its rich texture and nutty flavour, Red Leicester pairs particularly well with fruit-forward red wines. Rioja and Merlot are both excellent choices, adding depth while complementing the cheese's natural sweetness.

Top pairing: Rioja

What is the Best Drink for Goat's Cheese?

Fresh, tangy cheeses work best with bright, refreshing drinks. Sauvignon Blanc remains the go-to choice, offering the acidity needed to balance and enhance the cheese's distinctive flavour profile...

Top pairing: Sauvignon Blanc

Which Drink Pairs with Festive Cheese Favourites?

Seasonal cheeses featuring fruit flavours are increasingly popular during Christmas. Sparkling Rosé and Prosecco Rosé provide a refreshing contrast and help bring out the sweeter flavours often found in festive varieties.

Top pairing: Sparkling Rosé

Can Beer Pair with Cheese?

Absolutely - While wine often takes centre stage, beer is becoming an increasingly popular cheeseboard companion. IPA styles pair particularly well with mature cheeses, while Stout remains a natural match for stronger blue cheeses. Offering both beer and wine pairings is an effortless way to provide more choice and encourage your customers to try something new. With More Choice, More Quality and More Service, you will find everything you need to create memorable food and drink experiences throughout the festive season.

Looking for the perfect festive cheeseboard? Explore our Christmas Cheese page.