Patrick Oconnell
The Will Studd Cheese Board is a curated selection of artisanal cheeses, meticulously chosen by renowned cheese expert Will Studd, offering a diverse and exquisite tasting experience. Highlighting Studd’s passion for quality and craftsmanship, the board features a thoughtfully balanced array of cheeses from around the world, including aged cheddars, creamy bries, and unique blue varieties. Each cheese is selected for its distinct flavor profile, texture, and provenance, ensuring a journey through different regions and traditions. Paired with complementary accompaniments like crackers, fruits, and condiments, the Will Studd Cheese Board is perfect for entertaining or savoring as a gourmet indulgence, making it a must-have for cheese enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Will Studd Cheese Board |
| Material | Sustainable Timber (typically Australian hardwoods like Blackwood or Jarrah) |
| Dimensions | Varies, typically around 40cm x 25cm x 2cm (15.7" x 9.8" x 0.8") |
| Shape | Rectangular or Oval |
| Finish | Natural oil finish (food-safe) |
| Features | Groove around the edge to catch crumbs, integrated handles (on some models), engraved Will Studd logo |
| Purpose | Serving and presenting cheese, charcuterie, and other delicacies |
| Care Instructions | Hand wash only, oil regularly to maintain finish |
| Price Range | AUD $80 - $150 (depending on size and wood type) |
| Availability | Will Studd website, select gourmet food stores, and online retailers |
| Origin | Designed and handcrafted in Australia |
| Sustainability | Made from sustainably sourced timber |
| Brand | Will Studd, renowned Australian cheese expert and affineur |
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What You'll Learn
Cheese Selection Tips
A well-curated cheese board is an art form, and the cornerstone of its success lies in the cheese selection. Will Studd, a renowned cheese expert, emphasizes the importance of variety, quality, and balance. Start by choosing cheeses from different milk types—cow, goat, and sheep—to offer a range of flavors and textures. For instance, pair a creamy Brie (cow’s milk) with a tangy aged goat’s cheese like Chevre Noir, and complement them with a robust sheep’s milk Manchego. This diversity ensures there’s something for every palate.
Texture plays a pivotal role in cheese selection. Aim for a mix of soft, semi-soft, hard, and blue cheeses to create visual and sensory contrast. A soft-ripened Camembert provides a luscious mouthfeel, while a hard, crumbly Cheddar adds crunch. Blue cheeses, such as Roquefort or Stilton, introduce a bold, pungent element. Will Studd suggests including at least one "conversation starter" cheese—something unusual or rare, like a washed-rind Epoisses or a truffle-infused variety—to elevate the experience.
Consider the maturity of the cheeses to balance intensity. Younger cheeses tend to be milder and creamier, while aged varieties develop sharper, more complex flavors. For example, a young Gouda is sweet and supple, whereas an aged Parmigiano-Reggiano is nutty and granular. Aim for at least one cheese in each age category to cater to different preferences. Studd recommends tasting cheeses at room temperature to fully appreciate their nuances, so plan to remove them from the fridge an hour before serving.
Pairing cheeses with complementary accompaniments enhances their flavors. Fresh fruits like pears or grapes balance richness, while nuts and honey add texture and sweetness. For a savory touch, include cured meats, olives, or chutneys. When selecting, think about the overall flavor profile of the board. For instance, a fruity Riesling pairs beautifully with a semi-soft Munster, while a bold Cabernet Sauvignon complements an aged Gouda. Studd advises limiting the number of strong-flavored items to avoid overwhelming the cheeses themselves.
Finally, portion size matters. Plan for 100–150 grams of cheese per person for a tasting board, or 150–200 grams if it’s a main course. Arrange cheeses from mildest to strongest to guide guests through a flavor journey. Label each cheese with its name and origin to educate and engage your audience. By following these tips, inspired by Will Studd’s expertise, you’ll create a cheese board that’s not only delicious but also thoughtfully composed and memorable.
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Pairing Cheese with Wine
The art of pairing cheese with wine is a delicate dance, where the goal is to create a harmonious balance that elevates both elements. Start by considering the intensity of both the cheese and the wine. A bold, aged cheddar, for instance, pairs beautifully with a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, as the wine’s tannins complement the cheese’s sharpness. Conversely, a mild, creamy Brie calls for a lighter, more acidic wine like a Chardonnay or sparkling wine to cut through its richness without overwhelming it. The key is to match intensity levels, ensuring neither the cheese nor the wine dominates the palate.
When experimenting with pairings, think about contrasting flavors to create a dynamic experience. For example, a tangy, goat’s milk cheese like Crottin de Chavignol can be paired with a slightly sweet Riesling to balance its acidity. Similarly, a salty, nutty Gruyère finds a perfect partner in a fruity Pinot Noir, where the wine’s red fruit notes offset the cheese’s earthiness. This contrast principle can transform a simple pairing into a memorable tasting journey, highlighting the unique qualities of both the cheese and the wine.
Age plays a crucial role in pairing cheese with wine. Younger cheeses, such as fresh mozzarella or chèvre, tend to have milder flavors and higher moisture content, making them ideal companions for crisp, dry whites like Sauvignon Blanc or light rosés. Aged cheeses, on the other hand, develop deeper, more complex flavors that stand up to robust reds like Syrah or Port. For semi-aged cheeses like young Gouda or Edam, a versatile medium-bodied wine such as a Merlot or Grenache works well, bridging the gap between freshness and maturity.
Practical tips can make the pairing process more accessible. Begin by serving cheeses at room temperature to fully appreciate their flavors and textures. Arrange them in order from mildest to strongest, and cleanse your palate with a sip of water or a neutral cracker between tastings. When in doubt, follow the regional pairing rule: cheeses and wines from the same region often share complementary characteristics. For instance, a French Camembert pairs effortlessly with a Normandy cider or a light red from Burgundy. This approach not only simplifies the process but also offers a culturally authentic experience.
Ultimately, the best pairings are those that bring you joy. While guidelines provide a starting point, personal preference should always guide your choices. Don’t be afraid to experiment—sometimes unconventional pairings, like a pungent blue cheese with a dessert wine like Sauternes, can yield surprising and delightful results. The Will Studd cheese board philosophy encourages exploration, inviting you to discover the endless possibilities that arise when cheese and wine come together in perfect harmony.
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Art of Cheese Presentation
A well-curated cheese board is a canvas where texture, color, and flavor converge to create an edible masterpiece. Will Studd, a renowned cheese expert, emphasizes the importance of balance and contrast in presentation. Start by selecting three to five cheeses with varying profiles—a creamy Brie, a sharp aged Cheddar, and a tangy blue like Roquefort—to engage diverse palates. Arrange them in a clockwise pattern, ensuring each cheese has its own space to shine. This method not only enhances visual appeal but also guides guests through a sensory journey, from mild to bold.
The art of cheese presentation extends beyond the cheeses themselves. Pairing elements like fresh and dried fruits, nuts, and charcuterie adds depth and context. For instance, a slice of pear alongside a nutty Gruyère amplifies both flavors. Will Studd suggests using seasonal ingredients to keep the board dynamic and relevant. For example, summer boards might feature fresh berries and basil, while winter boards could include caramelized nuts and quince paste. The key is to create harmony without overwhelming the cheese, allowing it to remain the star.
Temperature plays a critical role in cheese presentation, often overlooked by amateurs. Serve cheeses at their optimal temperature to ensure the best texture and flavor. Soft cheeses like Camembert should be at room temperature (around 65°F) for at least an hour before serving, while hard cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano can be served slightly cooler. Will Studd advises using a marble slab or chilled board for semi-soft cheeses to maintain their integrity during extended gatherings. This attention to detail elevates the experience from ordinary to extraordinary.
Finally, the presentation itself should tell a story. Use slate, wood, or ceramic boards to complement the cheeses’ natural hues and textures. Garnish with edible flowers, herbs, or a drizzle of honey for a polished finish. Label each cheese with its name and origin to educate and intrigue your guests. As Will Studd often notes, a thoughtfully presented cheese board is not just a meal—it’s a conversation starter, a centerpiece, and a celebration of craftsmanship. Master these elements, and your cheese board will become a memorable work of art.
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Will Studd’s Signature Cheeses
To create a cheese board featuring Will Studd’s Signature Cheeses, start by selecting a variety that balances textures and flavors. Include a hard cheese like his *24-Month Aged Comté*, which boasts a crystalline texture and deep, caramelized notes, ideal for those who appreciate complexity. Contrast it with a semi-soft option such as *Taleggio*, known for its pungent aroma and creamy interior that spreads effortlessly on crackers. For a bold statement, add a blue cheese like *Roquefort*, its veined interior delivering a sharp, tangy punch that pairs brilliantly with honey or walnuts.
When arranging the board, consider both aesthetics and practicality. Place stronger-flavored cheeses like *Roquefort* at the edges to prevent overpowering milder varieties. Use separate knives for each cheese to avoid flavor transfer, and label each selection with its name and origin to educate your guests. Add complementary accompaniments such as fresh figs, quince paste, or toasted almonds to enhance the tasting experience. Remember, the goal is to highlight the unique qualities of each cheese while creating a harmonious ensemble.
One of the standout features of Will Studd’s Signature Cheeses is their versatility in pairing with beverages. For example, the *Ash-Coated Pyrus*—a soft, ash-ripened cheese with a delicate, earthy flavor—pairs beautifully with a sparkling wine or a light, fruity beer. Conversely, the *Vintage Cheddar* from Australia, with its robust, tangy profile, stands up well to a full-bodied red wine like Shiraz. Experimenting with these pairings can elevate your cheese board from a simple snack to a sophisticated culinary journey.
Finally, consider the seasonal aspect when selecting Will Studd’s Signature Cheeses for your board. In colder months, opt for richer, more indulgent cheeses like *Raclette* or *Reblochon*, which can be melted for a comforting experience. In warmer weather, lighter options such as *Chèvre* or *Fresh Mozzarella* provide a refreshing contrast. By tailoring your selection to the season, you ensure that the cheeses not only taste their best but also resonate with the mood and atmosphere of the occasion.
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Storing Cheese Properly
Cheese is a living, breathing entity that continues to evolve even after it leaves the aging room. Proper storage is crucial to preserving its flavor, texture, and aroma. The key lies in creating an environment that mimics its natural habitat—cool, humid, and slightly breathable. Wrapping cheese in wax or plastic suffocates it, causing it to sweat and spoil. Instead, opt for specialty cheese paper or parchment, which allows moisture to escape while maintaining humidity. For longer-term storage, place the wrapped cheese in an airtight container with a damp cloth to regulate moisture levels.
Consider the type of cheese when determining storage duration. Soft, fresh cheeses like mozzarella or chèvre last only 3–5 days in the fridge, while harder varieties such as Parmigiano-Reggiano can endure for months. Semi-soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert fall in between, typically lasting 1–2 weeks. Always store cheese in the warmest part of the fridge—the lower shelves or crisper drawer—to avoid drying from cold air. If freezing is necessary, grate hard cheeses first, as freezing alters the texture of softer varieties irreversibly.
Temperature and humidity are not the only factors at play. Cheese absorbs odors like a sponge, so isolate it from pungent foods like onions or fish. A dedicated cheese drawer or container lined with unscented paper is ideal. For those with a cheese board habit, portioning cheese into smaller pieces minimizes exposure to air and contaminants. If mold appears on hard cheeses, simply cut off the affected area plus an additional 1 inch to ensure safety. Soft cheeses with mold should be discarded entirely, as the spores penetrate deeply.
The art of storing cheese properly extends beyond the fridge. Room-temperature cheese expresses its full flavor profile, so remove it from refrigeration 30–60 minutes before serving. This is particularly crucial for aged or hard cheeses, which need time to soften and release their complex notes. For a Will Studd cheese board, arrange cheeses in order from mildest to strongest, ensuring each variety is stored and served at its optimal condition. Proper storage not only preserves cheese but elevates the entire tasting experience.
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Frequently asked questions
A Will Studd cheese board is a curated selection of artisanal cheeses handpicked by renowned cheese expert Will Studd, often paired with complementary accompaniments like crackers, fruits, and condiments.
Select a variety of cheeses with different textures, flavors, and milk types (cow, goat, sheep) to create balance. Include at least one soft, one hard, and one blue cheese for diversity.
Pair cheeses with items like fresh or dried fruits, nuts, honey, chutneys, and crusty bread or crackers to enhance flavors and textures.
Arrange cheeses from mildest to strongest in a clockwise direction, leaving space for accompaniments. Label cheeses for guests and ensure proper spacing for easy serving.
Prepare the board 1-2 hours in advance to allow cheeses to come to room temperature for optimal flavor. Keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
