Save I discovered the Obsidian Peak while browsing a gallery opening's cocktail spread—not the paintings, but the fearless cheese board that stopped everyone mid-conversation. A tower of black wax cheddar stood like a monument, surrounded by dark crackers and these gleaming charcoal almonds that caught the light like polished stones. I remember thinking it was almost too beautiful to eat, until someone handed me a knife and suddenly the whole thing made sense: bold, dramatic, and utterly delicious in the most unexpected way.
I made this for a dinner party when I wanted to impress without stress, and what I didn't expect was how the conversation shifted when people gathered around it. Someone asked if it was edible or art, and that question hung there just long enough for everyone to laugh before diving in. That moment—where food becomes an experience before anyone takes a bite—is what this platter does best.
Ingredients
- Black wax-coated aged cheddar (400 g): The star of the show—aged varieties with the black wax exterior bring this deep, complex flavor and that matte dramatic finish that white cheddar simply can't match.
- Dark rye crackers (150 g): Not the pale squares; dark rye has real grain character and won't crumble the moment you bite down, plus they look stunning against the cheese.
- Whole almonds (100 g): Raw almonds work best since roasted ones already have oils that can make the charcoal coating slip off.
- Food-grade activated charcoal powder (1 tbsp): This is non-negotiable quality—cheap charcoal tastes like burnt plastic; the good stuff adds this subtle mineral note.
- Flaky sea salt (1 tsp, optional): Brings out the natural bitterness of the charcoal and keeps the almonds from tasting flat.
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional garnish): A small green element breaks up the monochrome drama and smells incredible when guests lean in.
- Edible black flowers (optional garnish): Violas or pansies add an unexpected delicate touch—but honestly, the board works without them.
Instructions
- Bring the cheddar to room temperature:
- Pull the black wax block from the fridge 20–30 minutes before serving. Cold cheese tastes muted; room temperature lets those deep, aged notes actually sing. You'll notice the difference the moment you taste it.
- Toast the almonds with charcoal:
- Toss the whole almonds in a bowl with the activated charcoal powder—be generous but not heavy-handed, aiming for an even dark coat. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky salt if you're using it. Smell them; they should have this subtle earthy-mineral aroma.
- Build the mountain:
- On your largest, flattest platter, position the whole cheddar block upright dead center. This is your peak—it should feel intentional and slightly dramatic.
- Lay the foundation:
- Circle the cheese with dark rye crackers, overlapping them slightly like you're building a protective ring. Leave some space between cracker and cheese so people can actually grab one without knocking the whole thing over.
- Fill the gaps:
- Scatter the charcoal almonds around and between the crackers, clustering them in a few places for visual interest rather than dotting them evenly everywhere. This is where you let instinct guide you; there's no wrong way.
- Garnish for drama:
- Tuck fresh rosemary sprigs into any empty corners. If you have edible flowers, place them strategically—just a few, not overdone. Step back and make sure the board feels balanced.
- Serve immediately:
- Hand guests a small cheese knife and let them slice from the peak. The magic happens when everyone reaches toward the center at the same time.
Save There was this moment at my dinner party when someone cut a slice and held it up to the light, almost reverently, before eating it. That's when I understood: this board isn't just about taste, it's about transformation—turning a simple cheese platter into something that feels ceremonial and alive.
The Psychology of a Monochrome Platter
One of the secret reasons this board works is that it breaks every traditional cheese platter rule. We expect color variation, fruit, honey drizzle—all the familiar markers of a 'complete' board. The Obsidian Peak strips that away and commits fully to one aesthetic, which somehow makes it feel more confident and intentional. The darkness isn't absence; it's presence.
Wine Pairings That Belong Here
Syrah and Malbec aren't accidents here—they've got the tannins and body to stand up to aged black wax cheddar without getting overwhelmed. If you want something bolder, try a Cabernet Sauvignon; if you prefer lighter, a Pinot Noir works surprisingly well. The key is choosing wine with enough structure and fruit-forward character to dance with the charcoal almonds' earthiness.
Customization Without Losing the Vision
You don't have to follow this exactly, and that's the beautiful part. Black grapes nestle into the gaps like dark jewels; dried dark cherries add a tart surprise; even black olives would look stunning if that's what you have. The rule is simple: anything dark, anything bold, anything that refuses to fade into the background belongs on this platter.
- Swap the rye crackers for dark seed crackers or black sesame crackers if rye isn't your thing.
- Double the charcoal almonds if your crowd skews toward snacking over cheese slicing.
- Use edible activated charcoal to dust a sharp gouda or gruyère if black wax cheddar isn't available—the flavor profile shifts but the drama remains.
Save This platter taught me that sometimes the most memorable meals are the ones that look like you took a real risk. Serve it with confidence, and watch what happens.
Questions & Answers
- → What type of cheese is used in the Obsidian Peak?
A black wax-coated aged cheddar is used to create the peak effect and deliver bold, sharp flavors.
- → How are the almonds prepared for the platter?
Whole almonds are dusted with food-grade activated charcoal powder and optionally sprinkled with flaky sea salt to add texture and depth.
- → Can other cheeses replace black wax cheddar?
Yes, any sharp aged cheese coated in black wax can substitute to maintain the visual and flavor profile.
- → Why is the cheddar served whole and uncut?
Keeping the cheese whole and upright forms a dramatic mountain peak centerpiece to enhance visual appeal and presentation.
- → What accompaniments complement the Obsidian Peak?
Dark rye crackers create a sturdy base around the cheese, while charcoal-dusted almonds add crunch and color contrast.
- → Are there suggested garnishes for this platter?
Fresh rosemary sprigs and edible black flowers such as viola or pansy provide an elegant finishing touch.