The main rule for sampling parties is to make sure you progress from delicate flavors towards more pronounced flavors. Start by serving mild-tasting wines, breads and cheeses first and move towards stronger flavors to finish with. Make a point of trying new selections…this is a sampling party after all!

Before sampling a new wine or cheese, eat a piece of bread or fruit to refresh your taste buds. By doing so, you’ll be better able to appreciate the full flavor of the next selection you taste.

Plan on serving at least three courses, each featuring three cheese selections. Start by serving a platter of mild cheeses followed by a platter of medium cheeses and ending with the strong cheeses. Serve only one platter at a time.

Arrange your selections in separate groups according to their types – mild, medium and strong. Let your guests create their own plate according to their taste. If you decide to serve all your cheeses on the same platter, arrange them in a circle, starting with the mildest and ending with the strongest.