Tom Surgey’s Christmas cheese and wine pairings

Tom Surgey’s Christmas cheese and wine pairings

This Christmas, we invited Tom Surgey, the wine expert and author of How to Drink Wine, into the Snowdonia Cheese Co kitchen to create the ultimate festive pairings. His brief was simple: explore our award-winning cheeses, chutneys and crackers, and match them with wines that bring out their very best.

The result is a lineup of combinations that feel luxurious yet effortlessly achievable – perfect for enjoying all season long.

Tom’s pairings remind us that the most delicious feasts are often the simplest. Each one is beautifully balanced, matching our rich and characterful cheeses with thoughtfully chosen accompaniments and wines that complement their depth of flavour. From Christmas Eve to Boxing Day, each of these pairings is a mini celebration.

Rock Star, Balsamic Caramelised Onion Chutney, Wholemeal & Extra Virgin Olive Oil Crackers, Château Macquin Saint-Georges-Saint-Émilion

Decadent and deeply savoury, Rock Star’s rich umami notes meet the sweetness of our Balsamic Caramelised Onion Chutney and the nuttiness of wholemeal crackers. A glass of silky Saint-Émilion brings everything together in pure festive harmony.

Beech Wood, Hot Honey, Spelt & Sea Salt Crackers, Quinta da Fonte Souto Florao Red

Delicately smoked Beech Wood finds its match in the gentle heat of Hot Honey and the crunch of Spelt & Sea Salt Crackers. A Portuguese red adds ripe berries and spice for a warming winter pairing.

Truffle Trove, Fig & Apple Chutney, Fig & Cranberry Crackers, Henriot Brut Souverain NV Champagne

Earthy Truffle Trove extra mature Cheddar, luscious Fig & Apple Chutney and sweet, fruity crackers make a truly indulgent trio. The crisp, lively Champagne cuts through the richness for pure festive luxury.

Ruby Mist, Pear, Date & Cognac Chutney, Fig & Cranberry Crackers, Graham’s Late Bottled Vintage Port 2019

Smooth mature cheddar infused with Graham’s Late Bottled Vintage Port and a dash of French brandy meets the sweet depth of Pear, Date & Cognac Chutney. Paired with fig-studded crackers and a glass of Graham’s LBV, it’s Christmas in every bite.

From fireside suppers to family feasts, these pairings bring comfort, flavour and a little festive sparkle to every table. Explore our cheese and wine hampers.