Simple tips (and delicious pairings) for cosy entertaining, Red Hill-style.
Winter is the perfect time to slow down, gather a few good friends, and lean into life’s simple pleasures. And what could be better than a wine and cheese night by the fire, with a curated spread of local goodness and a few well-poured glasses?
At Cellar & Pantry, we believe entertaining doesn’t have to be elaborate to be memorable. With the right wine, quality cheese, and a few thoughtful touches, you can turn a chilly night into something warm and wonderful.
Here’s our guide to hosting the perfect winter wine & cheese night, with easy ideas and products you’ll find right here in store.
Keep the Guest List Intimate
Start by keeping things simple. A smaller gathering (4–6 guests) makes for easier planning and more meaningful conversation. Wine and cheese nights are all about slow enjoyment, not rushing through a three-course meal.
Hosting tip:
Let your guests know it’s casual and cosy. Create an atmosphere that’s relaxed and welcoming.
Choose 3–5 Cheeses for Variety
A good cheese board is all about balance. Aim for a mix of:
- Soft & creamy (think brie or camembert)
- Hard & sharp (like a mature cheddar or aged manchego)
- Funky or bold (a washed rind or blue for the adventurous)
Product tip:
We carry a rotating selection of local and regional artisan cheeses. Ask us in-store and we’ll help you select a lineup with the perfect contrast of textures and flavours.
Presentation tip:
Let cheese sit out at room temp for at least 30 minutes before serving—it unlocks the full flavour profile.
Pair Thoughtfully with Wine
When it comes to wine pairings, aim to complement, not compete. Some tried-and-true ideas:
- Soft cheeses love a creamy Chardonnay or light Pinot Noir
- Hard cheeses pair beautifully with cool-climate Shiraz or an earthy Nebbiolo
- Blue cheeses shine with something sweet—like a late-harvest Riesling or fortified wine
In-store pick:
Chat to our team about what’s currently pouring from local wineries in Red Hill. We’ll help you match bottles to your board.
Don’t Forget the Extras
The best cheese boards have more than just cheese. Include:
- Something crunchy: local crackers, sourdough crisps, or crostini
- Something sweet: fig jam, quince paste, or honey
- Something salty: olives, nuts, or cured meats
- Something fresh: a few slices of pear or apple add brightness and bite
Shop tip:
You’ll find all of these pantry gems at Cellar & Pantry, from handmade preserves to small-batch lavosh.
Serving tip:
Use wooden boards or slate tiles, and group items in small clusters so everyone can easily grab a little of everything.
Set the Scene for Comfort
Create a warm, inviting space with:
- Soft lighting (candles, lamps, fairy lights)
- A few wool throws or cushions
- Background music (keep it mellow—think acoustic, jazz, or vinyl classics)
- A scented candle or simmering pot of spices to add a wintry aroma
Mood tip:
If you’ve got a fireplace, light it. If not, a few tall candles can evoke the same soft glow.
Offer a Simple Sweet Finish
Wrap up the night with a little something sweet – a square of dark chocolate, a spiced biscuit, or a bite of fruit cake. A small digestif (like a local liqueur or dessert wine) rounds it off nicely.
Final tip:
Keep extra wine chilled (or decanted) so you can top up as the evening lingers on.
Your One-Stop Shop for a Perfect Night In
At Cellar & Pantry, we’ve got everything you need for an unforgettable winter gathering: local wines, artisan cheeses, and all the little extras that make it feel special.
Stop by to browse, ask questions, and build your own custom cheese night spread. Whether it’s your first time hosting or you’re a seasoned entertainer, we’ll help you make it deliciously easy.
Visit Us in Red Hill South
Wine, cheese, and cosy nights – crafted with care, right here on the Mornington Peninsula.
