The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and, of course, big cheeseboard energy. This year, we commissioned a team of expert cheesemongers to curate one-of-a-kind cheeseboards to inspire your craft this holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a few friends or the whole family, a big fanciful cheese and charcuterie selection, artfully prepared in your own kitchen is sure to surprise and delight you and yours.
These skilled individuals bring their passion, expertise, and love for cheese to the table, creating an inspiring collection that not only showcases Vermont Creamery's exceptional cheeses but also encourages you, our cherished home cooks, to elevate your holiday gatherings with exquisite pairings and thoughtful assembly. Enough, let's get to the cheese and meet the mongers.
The Festive Fisherman: By Sarah Simiele: The Curd Nerd Champion
Dive into the coastal charm of Sarah Simiele's 'The Festive Fisherman' cheeseboard, a celebration of flavors inspired by the sea. Today’s catch includes Coupole and Bijou cheeses, their creamy textures and distinctive tastes setting the stage for a maritime culinary journey. This board also features Fishwife Smoked Mackerel, a rich and smoky delight that transports you to coastal landscapes
About Sarah:
Sarah Simiele, owner of The Curd Nerd in Syracuse, NY, is not only a cheesemonger but also the 2023 Cheesemonger Invitational champion. She is committed to championing small businesses, women-owned enterprises, local products, and American Artisan cheese. Sarah's keen palate and deep love for artisanal cheeses shine through in every selection at The Curd Nerd.
The Cozy Slumber Party: By Alena Douglas, The Cheese Culture Ambassador
Alena Douglas has masterfully curated a cheeseboard that transcends the ordinary, inviting you to savor every moment of your cozy slumber-party with a selection of flavors that dance together in perfect harmony. The star-studded cast includes Bijou, Blueberry Lemon Thyme Chèvre, Brabander Gouda, and Alp Blossom, each bringing its unique flavors to the ensemble.
About Alena:
With over eight years of cheese expertise, Alena Douglas serves as the Specialty Cheese/Food Director for Provisions Wine. Her role involves teaching and introducing the world of cheese to new audiences. Alena's approach is not just informative but also accessible and welcoming. Her passion for diverse flavors extends beyond the cheese counter into her love for exploring different foods and beverages.
Holiday Comforts, By Karla Lamoureux, Forging Connections through Cheese.
Karla Lamoureux's 'Holiday Comforts' cheeseboard is a delightful assembly inspired by the cozy tastes and aromas of the season. Crafted to be savored as either a comforting dinner or a sweet dessert course, this board pairs perfectly with festive beverages such as eggnog, hot cocoa, or mulled wine/cider.
In just 15-20 minutes, you can create a culinary masterpiece for two as a main course or for 3-4 for a festive snacking experience. The starring trio features the creamy decadence of 1 Vermont Creamery Cremont, Vermont Creamery Bijou, and the distinctively tangy 1/4 pound of Payoyo—an artful blend of goat and sheep milk that mirrors the creamy cow/goat blend of Vermont Creamery Cremont.
About Karla:
Karla Lamoureux's journey into the world of cheese started with a love for food and evolved into a deep connection with people. Working at Formaggio Kitchen in Cambridge, MA, she found her "cheesy home and family." Karla's happiness stems from meaningful connections forged through buying, selling, sharing, and, of course, eating cheese.
Sweet and Sour, By Hanna Lee, Unlocking Flavors with Every Batch
Hanna Lee's "Sweet and Sour Cheeseboard," is a thoughtful exploration of contrasting taste profiles featuring the rich double cream mixed milk Cremont and Bijou soft-ripened cheeses. Crafted to showcase the distinct characteristics of each cheese, Cremont takes center stage with its rich, almost sweet flavor derived from the infusion of cow's cream. Paired with succulent Rancho Meladuco dates as the unconventional 'cracker' and adorned with thinly sliced speck, this combination creates a symphony of sweet and savory notes that dance on the palate.
About Hanna:
After a brief stint in cheesemaking, Hanna Lee has spent the last 4.5 years running cheese counters for both Whole Foods and Dedalus Wine in Boulder. Her fascination with the ever-changing flavors of cheese, depending on the batch, fuels her passion for discovery. Hanna's expertise lies not just in selling cheese but in unlocking new flavors through creative pairings, making every day in the world of cheese a new adventure.
I Scream, you Scream, Goats Scream for Ice Cream, By Colton Belisle, The Whole Foods Aficionado
Indulge in a whimsical ice cream experience with Colton Belisle WFM's playful creation, "I scream, you scream, goats scream for ice cream." This delightful recipe promises a unique twist on the classic frozen treat, featuring a medley of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
About Colton:
Colton Belisle, a 34-year-old originally from San Diego, CA, has been an integral part of Whole Foods Market for over a decade. While he recently transitioned to the Specialty department, his dedication to providing exceptional customer experiences remains unwavering. Colton brings a fresh perspective to the cheeseboard, blending his West Coast roots with his newfound passion for specialty cheeses.
Big thanks to Colton, Sarah, Alena, Karla, and Hanna, for helping elevate your holiday gatherings with these unforgettable cheeseboards. We hope you embrace the spirit of the season, explore the world of artisanal cheeses, and savor these expertly crafted holiday cheeseboards. Cheers to cheese, and wishing you all a festive holiday season.
