how to bring it all together

Remember to take your cheeses out of the fridge. Cheese is never at its soft, ripe best when chilled.

The French style of eating cheese is before the dessert to keep the savoury flavours going and to use up the red wine from the main course. The British way of eating cheese is after the dessert to finish off on a savoury note. Really, it’s up to you which you prefer.

Cheese doesn’t have to be served with bread or crackers. A cheese plate is fabulous with grapes and apples or a fresh herb salad. Try celery; dates with soft cheese for that toffee effect; or pears with blue cheese.