When it comes to entertaining at home, nothing brings people together quite like a cheese board. Whether it’s a cosy night in with family, a weekend barbecue with friends, or a holiday celebration, a well-styled cheese board turns any gathering into something special.
But here’s the secret: the board itself matters just as much as what you put on it. Choosing the right wooden board not only makes your spread look inviting, but also keeps your cheese, crackers, and accompaniments fresh and safe.
So, what’s the best wood for a cheese board? And how do you build one that will have your guests coming back for seconds? Let’s dig in.
Why Wood Matters for Cheese Boards
Not all boards are created equal. The material you choose will affect food safety, durability, and even how your cheese tastes.
-
Non-porous hardwoods are best.:
Woods like Acacia, Maple, Olive, Cherry, and Teak don’t soak up liquids and are naturally more resistant to stains and smells. They’re durable, food-safe, and easy to keep clean. -
Avoid porous or soft woods.
Open-pored woods like Oak and Ash can trap oils and bacteria, making them harder to clean. Softwoods like Pine dent easily and can even release a resinous taste into your food. -
Beware wood that smells.
Some wood materials have strong smells, such as Camphor Laurel & Oak. Avoid this type of wood for your cheese boards as the smell can transfer to the cheese and negate the taste experience. -
Skip lacquered or varnished boards.
These coatings can chip under knives and aren’t food-safe. Stick with boards finished in natural, food-grade oils.
👉 That’s why Acacia (used in our Wild Wood range) is such a great choice. It’s tough enough to last for years, naturally antibacterial, and kind to your knives — no dull blades here.
Building the Perfect Cheese Board
Once you’ve got your board sorted, the fun really begins. Here’s a simple formula you can use every time to create a balanced and impressive spread.
1- The Cheese
Choose 3–4 types of cheese, mixing different textures and flavours:
- Aged: Cheddar, Gouda, Gruyere
- Soft: Brie, Camembert, Goat’s cheese
- Firm: Manchego, Edam, Parmesan
- Blue: Gorgonzola, Stilton, Roquefort
This mix keeps everyone happy — from the mild-cheese lover to the bold blue-cheese fan.
2- The Crunch
Add bread and crackers to give variety in texture. Think: baguette slices, ciabatta, water crackers, multigrain crisps, or parmesan wafers.
3- Fresh Touches
Fresh fruit adds colour and sweetness: grapes, pears, figs, raspberries, or even tangerine slices. Add olives or cornichons for something savoury.
4- Something Sweet & Nutty
Balance the saltiness of cheese with dried fruits, honey, or chutney. A handful of almonds or cashews gives extra crunch.
Making Your Cheese Board Timeless
The best cheese boards aren’t just for a special occasion — they’re made to be used again and again. Here’s how to make yours timeless:
-
Choose the right size:
A large, broad board gives plenty of space for styling and sharing. -
Keep it simple:
A wooden board never goes out of style and looks right at home on any table. -
Look after it:
Hand-wash with mild soap, dry thoroughly, and rub with board oil every so often to keep it nourished.
With the right care, a high-quality wooden board can last for decades — becoming part of your family’s food traditions.
The Barossa Cheese Board – A Host’s Best Friend
If you’re looking for a board that ticks all the boxes — beautiful, durable, and practical — the Wild Wood Barossa Cheese Board is a standout choice.
-
Made from premium Acacia heartwood
non-porous, knife-friendly, and naturally antibacterial. -
Large and stylish
designed to be the centrepiece of your table, with room for cheese, crackers, and extras. -
Timeless design
works just as well for casual family grazing nights as it does for a formal dinner party.
It’s more than just a serving board — it’s a piece you’ll be proud to bring out every time you entertain. And because it’s crafted from sustainable Acacia, you know it’s made to last.
Final Tips for Your Next Cheese Night
- Always serve cheese at room temperature for the best flavour.
- Pre-slice some cheeses, but leave a wedge or wheel whole for that “wow” factor.
- Use separate knives for strong cheeses (like blue) so flavours don’t mingle.
- Add little extras — like honey drizzle or a sprig of rosemary — to make your board look styled, not just set out.
Ready to Elevate Your Entertaining?
A great cheese board is about more than food — it’s about creating moments to share with family and friends. By choosing the right wooden board and building a thoughtful spread, you’ll have a timeless piece of kitchenware that works just as hard as you do.
If you’re ready to upgrade your cheese nights, take a look at our Barossa Cheese Board — beautifully crafted, practical, and made to be part of your family’s table for years to come.

