‘Tis the season to indulge in the joy of giving, and what better way to spread the festive cheer than by delighting the cheese aficionado in your life? This holiday season, surprise your cheese-loving friends and family with thoughtful gifts that celebrate their passion. From artisanal cheeses to creative accessories, this ultimate guide will help you find the perfect Christmas gifts for cheese lovers.
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Different types of gifts for cheese lovers
When it comes to choosing a gift for a cheese lover, the options are as diverse as the world of cheese itself. From delectable edibles to stylish accessories, there are countless choices that will delight any cheese enthusiast.
Here are some types of gifts that are sure to make their taste buds tingle with excitement.
At-home cheese maturing systems (cheese grottos)
In the realm of gifts for cheese enthusiasts, at-home cheese maturing systems stand out as exceptional choices. These specialised storage units mimic natural cheese caves, regulating humidity and temperature to mature cheeses to perfection.
Cheese grottos offer a unique opportunity for serious cheese lovers to experiment with affinage, creating personalised and exquisitely aged cheeses right in the comfort of their homes.
Gifting a cheese grotto provides them with the tools and environment to delve into the art of cheese ageing, transforming their kitchen into a mini cheese cellar and offering endless possibilities for crafting exceptional cheeses.
While there are several brands in the marketplace, our favourite (from personal experience) is the Cheese Grotto. Depending on the space you have and your budget, you can choose one of the following grottos:
- Cheese Grotto Classico: The original Grotto, The Classico, is made with architecturally handsome bamboo that is extremely resilient and durable over a lifetime.
- Cheese Grotto Fresco: The Grotto Fresco has a smaller footprint than the Classico, making it the perfect size for the metropolitan cheese lover with a smaller refrigerator who loves entertaining on the weekends.
- Cheese Grotto Mezzo: The perfect introductory model for cheese lovers with more modest cheese purchasing habits.
- Cheese Grotto Piatto: The Piatto is the smallest (and affordable) cheese maturing solution from the Cheese Grotto range. Whether it’s a gift, or for serving before or after a dinner at home, the Grotto Piatto is the ideal cheese storage solution for compact living.
Cheese accessories to elevate your cheese experience
Beyond the cheese itself, the world of cheese accessories offers a plethora of items designed to enhance the cheese tasting experience. These thoughtful additions not only add flair to cheese platters but also elevate the art of savouring cheese to new heights.
Cheese knives and tools
A well-crafted cheese knife is indispensable for any cheese lover. Different cheeses require different knives. For instance, a cheese knife with holes or a slim blade knife prevents sticking when cutting soft cheeses. Alternately, a Girolle will allow you to craft cheese flowers from a semi-hard cheese like Tête de Moine.
Moreover, tools like cheese planes and graters also allow cheese lovers to handle various textures with precision.
Of course, you can buy cheese knives in sets such as this 3-piece set from Laguiole which includes a spread, pronged cheese knife and a cleaver. Or this 8-piece set including a tagliagrana, flat cheese knife and narrow plane knife.
Cheese boards and platters
Presenting cheeses on elegant cheese boards or platters transforms a simple tasting into a sophisticated affair. Wood and slate boards are popular choices, providing a visually appealing backdrop for an array of cheeses.
These are some of our favourites:
- Bambüsi Cheese Board: Other than the high-quality bamboo, what we love the most about this cheese board is the hidden drawer. It provides a tidy and discreet way to pack cheese knives and markers. This is the best cheese board for people (like me) who are always asked to bring the cheese to parties and gatherings!
- Shanik Acacia Cheese Board: This solid wood board is the epitome of style. Thanks to its handcrafted design and gorgeous gift bag, it is the perfect Christmas gift for turophiles. And, as a bonus, it comes with ceramic serving plates and bowls.
- Juvale Mini Slate Cheese & Charcuterie Boards: Display your cheese and accompaniments in style with these stylish slate boards. This set of 6 boards even comes with 3 pieces of chalk so that you can label your cheeses when entertaining.
Cheese markers
When assembling a carefully curated cheese platter, presentation is key. Enter cheese markers, those small yet impactful accessories that add both organisation and elegance to the cheese-tasting experience.
Effectively, these fun markers serve a dual purpose: not only do they provide an easy way for guests to identify different cheeses, but they also elevate the visual appeal of the cheese board.
Markers come in many different types and styles and these are two of our favourites:
- Bollfo Slate Cheese Markers: We love these for two reasons. Firstly, they add a touch of elegance to your cheese platter. But even more importantly, they come with a set of soapstone chalks that allow you to write any cheese name on it. And simply wipe it off with a wet cloth after using.
- Norpro Porcelain Cheese Markers: If you’re looking for a more classic and less rustic aesthetic, these reusable porcelain markers will hit the spot. The set of six comes with a washable ink pen. As with the slate markers, you can write any cheese name on them and then simply wash them clean afterwards.
Cheese dome or cloche
Cheese domes, also known as cheese cloches, are not merely decorative pieces but practical and stylish accessories that enhance the cheese-tasting experience. These elegant glass covers are designed to protect and preserve cheeses, ensuring their flavours and textures remain at their best until the very last bite.
Here are two of the best cheese domes to add to any cheese lover’s collection:
- Flexzion Marble Cheese Dome: This large cheese dome (24 cm or 9 inches in diameter) has a gorgeous marble base. There is enough room under the dome for five to seven pieces of cheeses, depending on individual sizes.
- MyGift Small Clear Glass Cheese Cloche: If you prefer a wooden base, this cute little cloche is the one for you. With its 8 in (20 cm) diameter and a solid wood base, this cheese dome will stylishly display two to three pieces of cheese on your kitchen counter.
Investing in these cheese accessories not only adds convenience and elegance to cheese-centric events but also showcases a deep appreciation for the intricate world of cheeses.
Cheese-themed apparel
Let them express their love for cheese proudly with cheese-themed t-shirts. There’s a vast array of shirts featuring different cheeses, witty cheese-related slogans, or even humorous cheese puns.
From simple designs showcasing their favourite cheese varieties to clever phrases, these shirts add a touch of fun to their wardrobe while celebrating their cheesy passion.
These three designs are a great place to start:
Straight Outta Comté Unisex T-Shirt
Embrace your love for cheese and iconic hip-hop culture with the ‘Straight Outta Comté’ t-shirt! This stylish tee not only celebrates the legendary Comté cheese but also adds a touch of urban flair, making it the perfect fashion statement for cheese lovers and music enthusiasts alike.
Gouda Vibes Unisex T-shirt
Get into the groove of good vibes with the ‘Gouda Vibes’ t-shirt! This trendy tee captures the essence of positivity and cheesy delights, combining comfort and style to spread smiles and Gouda goodness wherever you go.
Deck The Halls With Loads Of Good Cheese T-Shirt
Spread holiday cheer with this ‘Deck the Halls with Loads of Good Cheese’ t-shirt! This festive tee combines the joy of the season with the love for delectable cheeses, making it a merry and cheesy addition to your holiday wardrobe.
Another couple that are worthy of a mention are the Turophile Cheese Lover T-Shirt and Frida Kahlo Self-Portrait with Cheese T-Shirt.
Gourmet cheese gift boxes
When it comes to gifting the ultimate indulgence to a cheese lover, few options compare to gourmet cheese gift boxes. These thoughtfully curated bundles are not just presents; they are experiences that tantalise the taste buds and delight the senses.
We’ve rounded up three of the best cheese boxes that you can order online for delivery:
- igourmet Best of Europe Cheese Assortment: This gourmet box brings together four European icons – Camembert, Cheddar, Piave and Drunken Goat. And a pack of French waffle crackers nicely round them up.
- Wisconsin Cheese Variety Box: This unique cheese box brings to your doorstep some of Wisconsin’s finest cheeses. The current offering features Pimento Colby, Sriracha Jack, Colby Jack, Smoked Gouda and Cheese Curds.
- Williams Sonoma Deluxe Cheese & Charcuterie Hamper: Filled with specialty food from Europe’s finest purveyors, this collection ensures a lavish antipasto spread and makes an unforgettable gift for your favourite foodie. The hand-selected delicacies range from Spanish ham and Italian salami to premium cheese from France, Switzerland and Italy.
Homemade cheesemaking kits
Home cheesemaking kits are more than just a gift; they’re an invitation to embark on a delightful culinary adventure right in the comfort of one’s kitchen. These kits empower cheese enthusiasts to become artisans, creating an array of cheeses from scratch.
Home cheesemaking kits provide a hands-on, immersive experience in the art of cheese production. They come with all the necessary ingredients, equipment and step-by-step instructions, allowing beginners to dive into the world of curds and whey.
From stirring and moulding to ageing and tasting, every step offers a sense of accomplishment and a deeper understanding of the cheesemaking process.
To save you hours of research, we’ve listed three of the best here for you:
- The Ultimate Cheese Making Kit: The cheese kit that makes you say, “Well, that was easy!” In less than an hour, you can whip up your favourite cheese, at home and with minimal effort. Just a few of the cheeses you can make are Mascarpone, Labneh, Scottish Crowdie, Queso Blanco and Halloumi.
- Mozzarella & Ricotta Cheese Making Kit: Perfect for both beginners and pros, this kit includes everything you need to make Mozzarella and Ricotta cheese. As well as ingredients, you will get a thermometer, muslin cloth and an instruction booklet.
- Fermentaholics DIY Fresh Cheese Making Kit: This easy DIY cheese kit will help you make all your favourite soft cheeses right in the comfort of your own kitchen. These cheeses include a 30-minute Mozzarella, fresh Ricotta, Burrata, Paneer, Chèvre and more!
Cheese subscription services
Cheese subscription services offer a passport to a world of artisanal and exotic cheeses, making them the perfect gift for cheese aficionados seeking a continuous adventure in flavours. These services transform cheese tasting into a curated experience delivered right to the doorstep, making every month a culinary exploration.
If you live in the USA, these three cheese subscriptions provide the best all-round value:
- Murray’s Cheese Club: Murray’s Monthly Cheese Clubs offer a premium cheese-tasting experience, whether for personal indulgence or as a thoughtful gift. Handpicked from top international and domestic producers, Murray’s ensures the highest quality selections. With five diverse clubs catering to various tastes, subscribers can explore new flavours conveniently delivered to their door.
- Jasper Hill Farm Cheese Club: Each month, club members receive at least three cheeses together with pairings, cheese tools and/or fun merchandise. As an extra incentive, you can get access to special release cheeses from the makers of Harbison and Bayley Hazen Blue.
- Fromagination Cheese of the Season: This quarterly subscription celebrates the seasonality of cheese. Look out for Stilton and Comté in the winter box, and double cream cheeses and Mozzarella in the summer box. And we can guarantee that the spring and autumn boxes won’t disappoint either.
For cheese lovers in Australia, we’ve got one great recommendations for you as well:
- Mould Cheese Collective: The Mould Collective shines a spotlight on Australian artisanal cheese. You can choose either a monthly or bi-monthly subscription. Keep an eye out for the October box which celebrates raw milk cheese every year.
Cheese-themed books
What is one thing that cheese enthusiasts love almost as much as eating cheese? Learning about cheese of course!
Cheese books fall largely under three categories: education, art of serving and cheesemaking. We’ve gathered some of our favourites from each category for you.
Cheese education books
- Reinventing the Wheel by Bronwen & Francis Percival
- The New Rules of Cheese by Anne Saxelby
- The Philosophy of Cheese by Patrick McGuigan
Art of serving cheese
- That Cheese Plate Will Change Your Life by Marissa Mullen
- Cheese Sex Death: A Bible For The Cheese Obsessed by Erika Kubick
- Composing The Cheese Plate by Brian Keyser & Leigh Friend
Home cheesemaking books
- Mastering Artisan Cheesemaking by Gianaclis Caldwell
- Home Cheesemaking by Ricki Carroll
- Artisan Cheesemaking at Home by Mary Karlin
Cheese party hosting equipment
When it comes to hosting unforgettable cheese-centric gatherings, having the right equipment is essential. Cheese party equipment, specifically fondue and raclette sets, transform ordinary evenings into indulgent cheese feasts.
These specialised tools not only enhance the cheese-tasting experience but also add a touch of interactive culinary delight to social gatherings.
Cheese fondue sets
Fondue sets are the epitome of convivial dining, inviting friends and family to gather around a bubbling pot of creamy, melted cheese. These sets offer more than just a meal; they create an interactive and social culinary experience.
With a cheese fondue set, dipping into a velvety blend of cheeses becomes a shared adventure, fostering connections and conversation. The warm glow of the fondue pot and the tantalising aroma of melted cheese transform any gathering into an intimate cheese-themed celebration.
Perfect for winter nights, festive occasions, or casual get-togethers, Fondue sets turn ordinary evenings into memorable cheese feasts, leaving a lingering taste of togetherness in every bite.
These are three of our favourite fondue pots:
- Swissmar Lugano Cheese Fondue: Made for entertaining, this retro 70’s throwback is the ultimate entertaining tool. The Lugano cast iron pot is shaped like a traditional Swiss caquelon, making it perfect for cheese fondue.
- Boska Cheese Fondue Party Set: With fondue pan, fondue forks and tea lights, you have everything you need to start a delicious cheese fondue (or chocolate fondue).
- Artestia 2.11-Quart Ceramic Fondue Pot Set: We’ve left the most stylish for last with this Artestia fondue put. It features a Swiss Alps pattern designed that allows you to create an elegant centrepiece for your table setting.
Raclette sets
Raclette sets bring the charm of alpine dining right to your table, offering a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. These sets, with their heated grills and individual cheese-melting trays, allow guests to craft personalised creations.
As the cheese slowly melts and blankets everything from potatoes to charcuterie, diners become culinary artists, experimenting with flavours and textures. Home Raclette sets fall broadly under two categories: slice and wheel.
Best Raclette set for sliced cheese – Swissmar KF-77043 Red Classic 8-Person Raclette: You can’t beat Swissmar for home Raclette. This fun set includes 8 Raclette dishes and a non-stick grill on top.
Best Raclette set for quarter wheel cheese – Quattro Concrete Raclette Quarter Wheel: While the Swissmar set above might be the most practical, this concrete base cheese melter from BOSKA is definitely the most eye-catching! The Quattro Concrete is suitable for a quarter wheel of Raclette cheese.
Cheesemaking classes
Cheesemaking classes offer an inviting space for aspiring home cheesemakers to explore the world of curds and whey in a relaxed, casual setting. These classes are tailor-made for cheese lovers eager to transform their kitchens into cheese-making havens.
These fun classes provide a hands-on, laid-back experience, where attendees can get their hands messy and dive right into the cheesemaking process. From stirring curds to moulding and ageing, participants learn the ropes of cheese creation through playful experimentation.
There are a large number of cheesemaking classes on offer throughout the USA. You can find some of the best ones here, organised by state.
Some of our favourite ones from that list include Bedford Cheese Shop in New York and the Cheese School of San Francisco.
If you live in Victoria, Australia, the Cheese School in Castlemaine is our pick of the lot.
Conclusion
As our journey through the world of cheese gifts comes to a close, it’s evident that the spirit of giving takes on a delectable twist when it involves the cherished delights of fromage. Whether you’re searching for the perfect present for a cheese lover or considering indulging your own passion, the options are as diverse as the cheeses themselves.
This holiday season, let the gift of cheese be a gesture of indulgence, discovery and shared moments. Whether it’s a carefully curated basket, a cheese-inspired t-shirt or an artisanal cheese subscription service, remember that each gift is an invitation—to explore, to savour and to celebrate the wonder that is cheese.
Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online.
