Discover how to store and serve cheese hampers and platters. Keep your cheese fresh, delicious & perfectly presented with our expert guide.

 

Why Storage & Serving Matters

A cheese hamper is a true treat - whether it’s for a celebration, a gift, or simply a weekend indulgence. But to enjoy it at its very best, proper storage and serving are essential. Cheese is a living product that continues to mature, and how you care for it can make the difference between a good platter and a truly unforgettable one.

This guide covers everything you need to know about storing and serving your cheese hamper like a pro.

The cheeses in your hamper will arrive carefully packaged, but once opened, it’s important to store them correctly. Here’s how:

• Refrigeration – Store cheese in the fridge, ideally in the vegetable drawer where the temperature is slightly warmer and more humid.
• Wrap Properly – Avoid plastic wrap, which suffocates cheese. Instead, use wax paper, parchment, or cheese paper, then place in a loose food bag or container.
• Separate Strong Flavours – Keep strong cheeses (like blue) separate from milder varieties to prevent flavours from mingling.

When to Serve Cheese

Cheese tastes best when served at room temperature, as this allows the full flavour and texture to develop.

• Remove cheese from the fridge at least 30–60 minutes before serving.
• Keep it covered to prevent drying out while it warms.
• Arrange cheeses on a board in order of strength: from light, creamy varieties to stronger, aged or blue cheeses.

How to Present a Cheese Platter

Presentation transforms your hamper into a centrepiece. Here’s how to create a platter that wows:

1. Choose the Right Board – Wooden boards work best.
2. Add Variety – Place cheeses first, then fill spaces with accompaniments (nuts, olives, chutneys, crackers).
3. Pair Thoughtfully – Brie with sweet chutney, blue cheese with nuts, cheddar with olives. But really, go with whatever you like!
4. Serve with Style – Offer a separate knife for each cheese to avoid mixing flavours.

Pairing Suggestions

• The O&M Curators Choice Range has a selection of delicious accompaniments for cheese. Try our Traditional Fig Jam, Cheeseboard Chutney, Caramelised Onion Chutney or Flame Grilled Pepper & Ancho Chilli Salsa. Specifically we recommend:
  • For Traditional Cheddar - Our Cheeseboard Chutney is just as granny made!
  • For Blue Cheese - Try our Luxury Fig Chutney with Port
  • For Goats Cheese - Our Flame Grilled Pepper and Ancho Chilli Chutney introduces a delicious sweet and smokey flavour

Quick Tips to Remember

• Store cheese in wax/parchment paper, not cling film.
• Bring cheese to room temperature before serving.
• Arrange from mild to strong for the perfect tasting flow.
• Add accompaniments for balance and variety.
• Keep presentation simple but generous.

Our cheese hampers are designed to be shared, savoured, and celebrated. By storing them correctly and serving them with care, you’ll get the most from every bite - whether it’s a cosy night in, a dinner party, or a thoughtful gift.

With the right storage and a little creativity in presentation, your cheese platter becomes more than a meal - it’s an experience.

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