很少有像葡萄酒和奶酪这样有品味的组合——无论是在味觉上还是在派对上。每一种葡萄酒的正确搭配都能让你的味蕾在喝完甘甜的葡萄酒后久久地感到兴奋。如果你想知道如何让你的娱乐更上一层台阶，用红酒和奶酪作为你的明星，这比你想象的要简单。

The best part? Weather permitting, take your party outdoors for an impressive evening chock full of fun memories and conversation. So, pour yourself a glass, and you’re on your way to a great wine and cheese party that will wow everyone.

Set Up, and Wine Down

Rejoice, because a wine and cheese party is perfect for nearly any occasion. Perhaps you’re having a girls’ night, or maybe you want a true wine and cheese tasting with close friends. The world is your oyster—or in this case, wine cork. Experiment, and most importantly, have fun with it!

你可以自己提供所有的葡萄酒，但让你的客人带上他们最喜欢的葡萄酒和奶酪可能会更有趣(就像BYOB，或BYOW&C)，这样每个人都可以尝试新的和令人兴奋的口味。另外，一定要了解客人准备带的酒的种类，这样你就不会最后只带红酒或白葡萄酒了。

Arrange the Platters

Use largetraysto spread out the cheese, meats and other snacks around the table. Add labels so your guests know what they’re nibbling on, rather than constantly having to ask. You’ll find it’s a sophisticated touch that takes the party to the next level.

Use Scorecards to Keep Track of Favorites

如果这是一次真正的葡萄酒和奶酪品尝，你需要一种让每个人都能记录他们最喜欢的东西的方法。你可以提供传统的品鉴卡和笔，或者让每个人在黑板上写下自己的观点，这样会更有趣。用每个人的名字做一个列，并将每种葡萄酒类型单独放入自己的网格或复选框中。

从那里，鼓励你的客人标记他们最喜欢的红色，白色，或闪闪发光的品种，这样你就可以了解他们喜欢什么(你甚至可以做笔记，在他们的生日或即将到来的假期得到他们最喜欢的)。

Set Out Wine Charms to Personalize

Oftentimes when you start socializing, you may put your wine glass down and… wait, you’ve suddenly lost track of which glass is yours. When you provide guests with wine charms, this doesn’t happen. Attach a specific colored charm or endearing design onto your glass that differentiates it from everyone else’s.

Here’s anexampleof some cute ones—ideal for the wine and cheese theme.

Use a Bar Cart to Transport the Wine

如果你有五个或更多的客人，这些瓶子很可能很快就会被拿走。Utilize a handybar cart, which can be used to send in more wine glasses, bottles and hors d’oeuvres.

That, or it’s an easy way to display special wine or have guests get another glass if they’re trying a new bottle. Set it within view, and it’ll be the ideal repository for glasses, excess plates, and then some. You’ll definitely be thankful you have one of these for storage and a catch-all during the party.

The Importance of Wine and Cheese Combinations

Now it’s time for the stars of the party: the wine and cheese. Arrange the bottles next to the cheese that they’re paired with to make it easy for your guests. Of course, you will want to add a few more nibbles, like cured meats, honey and mustard, olives, nuts and fresh fruit. Don’t forget the baguettes and crackers, which are not only natural partners with wine and cheese, but also serve to cleanse the palate in between tastings.

Here are a few wine and cheese pairings that work beautifully together:

• 对于赤霞珠(cabernet sauvignon)或仙粉黛(zinfandel)等口感醇厚的红酒，一定要选择陈年的切达干酪或豪达干酪作为珍贵的搭配。如果你也想添加一些甜的东西，巧克力片饼干是非凡的黑色和大胆的味道。
• 干到甜的雷司令，莫斯卡托或香槟，乳清干酪，马苏里拉奶酪，布里干酪和卡门贝尔奶酪都是很好的选择。更甜的雷司令和Cheez-Its™是咸与甜的理想搭配，但如果你更喜欢干的，那么新鲜水果总是安全的选择。
• For chardonnay, pinot blanc, or merlot, consider pairing with firmer cheeses such as monterey jack, havarti, and edam for that perfect balance of flavor and acidity. Popcorn and chardonnay make for a savory combination, so don’t be afraid to pop some kernels and get them out on the table so your guests can munch while they drink.

This is, of course, just the tip of the iceberg depending on your tastes and preferences. Experiment with different flavors—you may just find your new favorite.

Set the Scene With Lighting

Nothing beats candlelight or string lights on a balcony for that extra glint of magical illumination, especially if your party goes into the evening hours.

If you can’t shake the chill from being outside, no worries—consider using afire pitorpatio heaterto help bring everyone together with a cozy combination of warm, ambient light and feel-good comfort.

Everyone’s sure to gather around for a delightful fireside chat.

Add Personal Flair

Don’t limit yourself to just food and lighting—add a table runner or even a stylish candle holder to spruce everything up to that next level of chic. Just don’t overdo it, because your wine and cheese should be the star attraction here.

Now that everything’s set up, all that’s left is to drink and munch on your delicious wine and cheese. Remember, enjoy responsibly, and make it a night your girls or close friends will raise their glasses to; nowandin the future.

Have you hosted a wine and cheese party before? We’d love to see your setup, and continue the conversation! Simply use#MyAshleyHomeon Instagram for a chance to be featured.