The Cheese Course

A cheese course during a dinner is a lovely way to prolong good wine and conversation while preparing the palate for dessert. We like to offer at least three cheeses; you may add more, depending on the number of guests and the type of meal being served. Balance the cheese course with the rest of the meal: Serve more extravagant cheeses with a light meal, and simple, light cheeses with a hearty meal.

Think of contrast in taste, texture, and color when selecting cheeses. Choose a representative from several families and try to include at least one familiar cheese, such as Brie or Camembert. If you buy about two ounces of each cheese per person, you will have plenty.