Our family has many stories about fondue fun (and failures) ... here are some tips!

  • In our family we start the first "dunk" in the cheese only until everyone has a piece of bread ready and is tapping their fork on the edge of the pot. Then we all dive in together for the first taste!
  • If a man loses his bread in the cheese, he owes the host a bottle of wine.
  • If a woman loses her bread in the cheese, she must kiss all the men.
    • Feel free to modernize these rules!
  • Under the cheese bread fights may or may not be allowed.

  • The stronger the cheese, the better the fondue. Try adding ...
      • Vacherin
      • Sharp White Cheddar
      • Gouda
      • Fontina
    • A light salad - with vinaigrette
    • White Wine - usually the same used in the fondue
    • Pie - Apple or light fruit
    • After dessert - a shot of Kirsch with coffee

    • Legend tells that if you drink water during a fondue, the cheese will turn to cement in your gut. (This is a myth). Stick to the wine and Kirsch. It's acceptable for children and non-drinkers to drink soda.
    • Don't have Fondue during May - August. General rule: Fondue during months with an R in their name.
    • It's not horrible, but colored forks are for meat fondue.
    • Red Wine just doesn't work.
    • Be careful to buy the correct Kirsch! Get the Brandy type, not the Liqueur.
    • Hors d'oeuvres aren't necessary. If you must, make them light.
    • Please use Imported Swiss Cheese! American Swiss is not the same. ... Unless it's Gran Cru from Monroe, WI USA :)