Creating a charcuterie board is more than just assembling meats and cheeses — it’s a mindful design experience that celebrates the rich bounty of the Hudson Valley. It’s where culinary creativity meets seasonal inspiration. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, setting the mood for a cozy evening, or simply indulging in the art of slowing down, here’s how to craft a board that pleases both the palate and the eye.
Crafting the Ultimate Hudson Valley Charcuterie Board: A Seasonal Guide – By Maxwell Alexander – Editor-in-Chief, Hudson Valley Style Magazine – Luxury Travel – Wellness Travel – Presented by Alluvion Vacations
1. Selecting Local Cheeses
Start with variety — a mix of soft, semi-hard, and bold cheeses to layer flavor and texture:
-
Camembert from Chaseholm Farm Creamery – rich, creamy, and versatile
-
Drunken Goat – a Spanish favorite soaked in red wine with a tangy finish
-
Aged Manchego – nutty and firm
-
Blue Yonder from Lively Run Dairy – bold and tangy
2. Incorporating Cured Meats
Add depth and savory character with a trio of meats:
-
Prosciutto di Parma – delicate and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit
-
Capocollo – marbled and slightly spicy
-
Fennel or garlic-infused salami – for a bold finish
3. Adding Fresh and Dried Fruits
Fruits bring sweetness, color, and balance:
-
Fresh: red grapes, Bosc pear slices, blueberries, mini sweet peppers
-
Dried: figs, apricots, or Medjool dates for chewy texture and depth
4. Nuts and Crunchy Elements
A well-balanced board needs contrast and crunch:
-
Pistachios, walnuts, Marcona almonds
-
Raincoast Crisps (cranberry hazelnut), 34 Degrees sesame crisps, rustic sourdough crackers
5. Spreads and Condiments
Tie it all together with thoughtful flavor accents:
-
Fig or black cherry jam – a must with blue cheese
-
Local honey – especially lovely over truffle or goat cheese
-
Cornichons, pickled onions, Castelvetrano olives for brightness
6. Local Wine Pairings
Nothing completes the board like a glass of local wine:
-
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc from Millbrook Vineyards & Winery
-
Pinot Noir or Cabernet Franc from Whitecliff Vineyard
-
Rosé or Riesling from Nostrano Vineyards
7. Presentation Tips
Treat the board like visual poetry:
-
Start with cheeses and space them evenly
-
Fill the gaps with fruits, crackers, and nuts
-
Use small dishes for olives, jams, and honey
-
Garnish with herbs like rosemary or thyme for color and aroma
8. Where to Shop
Support local businesses for the freshest ingredients:
-
Talbott & Arding in Hudson – cheeses, meats, and gourmet condiments
-
Beacon Pantry – fantastic for olives, spreads, and baguettes
-
Adams Fairacre Farms – one-stop for produce, nuts, and wine
Final Touch: The Alluvion Vacations Experience
Alluvion Vacations properties offer the kind of setting that invites you to create. A well-composed kitchen, sculptural elements like wooden boards and stone countertops, and the natural light that turns everyday moments into something quietly cinematic. It’s a design-driven approach to hospitality — where slowing down becomes instinctive, and living well feels effortless.
It’s more than a weekend escape. It’s a reflection of the do less, live more philosophy — and it’s what makes Alluvion the definitive way to experience the Hudson Valley.
