Why Cheese Boards Deserve Their Own Season

There are so many national days dedicated to different foods. We've got Pancake Day, Chocolate Day, Doughnut Day and even days celebrating biscuits and pizza. So, here's my question… why don't cheese boards have their own season?

If you know me, you'll know I'm a complete cheeseaholic. I honestly don't think there's ever a bad time for a cheese board. Whether it's a quiet evening at home, a family gathering, a picnic in the sunshine or Christmas with everyone around the table, if there's a cheese board involved, I'm happy.

But a proper cheese board isn't just about throwing a few bits onto a plate. It's a masterpiece. A work of art. Every ingredient has its place, every flavour complements another, and when it's all put together, it's almost too nice to eat… almost!

My perfect cheese board starts with a generous chunk of 3-Year Vintage Cheddar from Marks & Spencer. For me, it's an absolute must-have. Rich, full of flavour and packed with that sharp bite that makes you go back for just one more piece. Alongside that has to be a garlic soft cheese, because it adds something creamy and completely different to the board. Then, of course, there's a beautifully baked Camembert, warm enough to dip into, and some fresh mozzarella to keep things light.

Then come all the little extras that, in my opinion, make a cheese board truly complete. Raw onion, gherkins, pickled onions, grapes, fresh cucumber slices, a sliced baguette with plenty of butter, caramelised onion chutney, and apple chutney. Every item brings something different, whether it's sweetness, crunch, sharpness or a little bit of tang.

And then there's the crackers.

For me, nothing beats Jacob's Crackers. They aren't just my favourite because they go perfectly with cheese, they bring back some of my favourite childhood memories. I can still remember going to my nanny's house after school, where she'd have a plate waiting with cheese, Jacob's Crackers and butter, alongside a lovely cup of tea... or maybe two! Looking back, it's funny how something so simple can become such a treasured memory. Even now, every time I open a packet of Jacob's Crackers, it takes me straight back there.

Now, I know what you're thinking…

Chocolate-covered strawberries? Trust me.

I love finishing a cheese board with something sweet, and chocolate-covered strawberries do exactly that. The sweetness of the strawberries and the rich chocolate balance beautifully against the stronger cheeses. It might not be traditional, but I think every cheese board should have something that surprises you.

So, if cheese boards deserve their own season, when should it be?

Part of me wants to say every season because, let's be honest, I'd happily eat one all year round.

But if I had to choose just one, I'd vote for spring.

Spring feels like the perfect fit. It's not too hot, so your cheese isn't melting before you've had chance to enjoy it, but it's also warm enough to start making the most of the longer evenings. It's the season where everyone begins spending more time together again, whether that's in the garden, on the patio, or around the table with family and friends. A beautifully arranged cheese board simply belongs in those moments.

Picture a warm spring evening, the sun beginning to set, family or friends gathered together, a glass of your favourite drink in hand, and a carefully prepared cheese board taking centre stage on the table. It feels relaxed, comforting and just right.

Maybe it's time we stopped saving cheese boards for Christmas and special occasions.

I officially vote for a Cheese Board Season, and I think spring deserves the honour.

After all, if we've got seasons for pumpkin spice and Christmas markets, surely it's about time cheese boards got the recognition they deserve.

Who's with me? 🧀🍇🥖