How to Build a Stunning Charcuterie Brewer's Board with Adnams Beers and Chutneys

A charcuterie brewer's board is the ultimate sharing platter, combining cured meats, artisan cheeses, and craft beers for a feast of flavours. At Adnams, we've taken this classic concept and given it a Suffolk twist by pairing it with our own beers and chutneys. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or a festive party, building a board that balances salty, sweet, tangy, and hoppy notes is easier than you think.

In this guide, you'll learn how to assemble a stunning charcuterie brewer's board using Adnams beers and chutneys. From selecting the right meats and cheeses to pairing them with our Broadside beer and onion chutney, these tips will help you create a platter that looks as good as it tastes. Let's get started.

Choosing Your Beers and Chutneys

The heart of any brewer's board is the beer and chutney pairing. For a robust, malty backbone, Adnams Broadside is an excellent choice—its rich, fruity notes complement cured meats like prosciutto and salami, while its slight bitterness cuts through creamy cheeses. For a lighter option, try a crisp Adnams Ghost Ship pale ale, which pairs well with milder cheeses and seafood-based charcuterie.

When it comes to chutneys, the Adnams Onion Chutney, made with Broadside beer, is a natural match for any board. Its sweet and tangy profile enhances pork pies and pâtés. For a brighter note, the Adnams Cider Apple Chutney, made with Wild Wave English Cider, brings a fruity acidity that works beautifully with sharp cheddar and smoked meats. Don't be afraid to offer both for variety.

• Include at least two beer styles—one bold, one light—to cater to different palates.
• Place chutneys in small ramekins to prevent them from mingling with other items.

Selecting Meats and Cheeses

A classic charcuterie brewer's board should feature a mix of textures and flavours. Start with two or three cured meats: a dry-cured prosciutto, a spicy chorizo, and a smooth terrine or pâté. The saltiness of the meats will highlight the maltiness of Adnams Broadside and the sweetness of the chutneys.

For cheese, aim for variety in milk type and age. A sharp aged cheddar, a creamy brie, and a tangy blue cheese like Stilton cover all bases. The Adnams Onion Chutney pairs wonderfully with cheddar, while the Adnams Cider Apple Chutney cuts through the richness of brie. Blue cheese, with its bold flavour, is best enjoyed on its own or with a drizzle of honey.

• Let cheeses come to room temperature for best flavour—remove from fridge 30 minutes before serving.
• Slice meats thinly and fold them into ribbons for an elegant presentation.

Adding Accompaniments and Garnishes

No charcuterie board is complete without crunchy, tangy, and sweet extras. Include a selection of crackers, crusty bread, and breadsticks for texture. Fresh or dried fruits like grapes, figs, and apple slices add natural sweetness that contrasts with salty meats and tangy chutneys. Nuts—especially almonds or walnuts—provide a satisfying crunch.

Pickles and olives are also essential for cutting through richness. Cornichons and marinated olives work well. For a touch of indulgence, add the Adnams Champagne & Strawberry Conserve or Adnams x H&J Chocolate Truffle Selection Box as a sweet finish. These unexpected additions will surprise and delight your guests.

• Arrange accompaniments in small piles or clusters to create visual interest.
• Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme as garnishes for a pop of colour.

Assembling Your Board Like a Pro

Start with a large wooden board or slate platter. Place your ramekins of chutney and small bowls of olives or pickles first—they anchor the layout. Next, arrange your cheeses in different corners, leaving space between them. Fold or fan the meats and place them in separate clusters. Fill gaps with crackers, bread, fruits, and nuts.

The goal is to create a balanced, abundant look without overcrowding. Leave a little room for guests to reach in. For a special touch, serve the Adnams beers in small tasting glasses or directly from the bottle, and consider adding a label or chalkboard sign to identify each beer and chutney. Your charcuterie brewer's board will be the star of the table.

• Work from largest items (cheeses) to smallest (nuts) for a tidy arrangement.
• Keep beers chilled but not icy—around 8-12°C is ideal for ales.

Building a stunning charcuterie brewer's board with Adnams beers and chutneys is all about balance, variety, and personal touches. With the right pairings—like Broadside with onion chutney, or cider apple chutney with sharp cheddar—you'll create a platter that's both delicious and memorable. So grab a board, pick your favourite Adnams products, and start assembling. Your guests will thank you.