FAQs
What is the truffle?
The truffle is a wild-growing fungus that, unlike most of its kind, develops underground rather than on the surface. It draws nourishment from the roots of plants, with which it establishes a symbiotic relationship. The truffle attaches itself to the plant’s root system, forming what are scientifically known as mycorrhizae.
How do truffles form?
Truffle: how it forms, varieties, and beneficial properties…
The truffle belongs to the Tuber genus and is classified as a hypogeous fungus, meaning it grows underground. It is part of the Tuberaceae family. Truffles grow spontaneously in the soil near the roots of certain trees or shrubs, known as symbiotic plants, which enable their development.
Where do truffles grow?
Truffles are found near various types of trees. In particular, this prized fungus can be found growing near walnut, pine, poplar, hornbeam, fir, or chestnut trees. They also grow beneath ash, elm, maple, broom, hazel, and oak trees.
How does a truffle form?
Thanks to the mycorrhiza—a tiny network of filaments—the truffle and its host plant establish a symbiotic relationship that enables an intense exchange of water, nutrients, and minerals. Truffles reproduce through spores which, once released into the soil, give rise to new specimens.
How long does it take for a truffle to form?
8 weeks
The spores settle on the plant’s roots and, together with the soil, form small symbiotic associations that are crucial for the truffle’s future growth. The maturation time of a truffle varies depending on the species, but typically ranges from 5 to 8 weeks.
Which animal searches for truffles?
Lagotto Romagnolo: the most beloved truffle dog
Another dog that often proves suitable for this purpose is the Border Collie. The Lagotto Romagnolo is considered the ultimate truffle dog. In our country, where the Lagotto Romagnolo originates, truffle hunting has a long tradition.
Where do truffles grow most?
Truffle cultivation is where almost all of the world’s black truffle harvest comes from, France, Italy, Spain and Australia being the main exports of fresh Black Truffles.
Italy is home to the greatest variety and quantity of wild truffles in the world, with 25 out of the 60 known species. However, only 9 of these can be legally harvested and sold. It is also in Italy where the culinary and gastronomic history of truffles first began.
What does white truffle taste like? - Tuber Magnatum Pico – White truffle
Aroma and Flavor
The aroma of the white truffle is intense, encapsulating the essence of the woodland environment in which it grows. Its flavor is bold and aromatic, with subtle notes reminiscent of garlic and honey.
What does black truffle taste like? - Tuber Melanosporum – Black Winter Truffle
Aroma and Flavor
The aroma of the prized black truffle is aromatic yet subtle, not overly pungent. Its flavor is delicate with slightly sweet undertones.
What does summer truffle taste like? - Summer Truffle – Tuber Aestivum
Often mistakenly associated with the black truffle Tuber Melanosporum, the flavors of the summer truffle are entirely different from those of the renowned “black diamond.” Nevertheless, it is a delicious truffle, with a firm texture and delicate notes of hazelnuts and mushrooms.
What does Bianchetto truffle taste like? - The Bianchetto truffle Tuber Borchii Vitt.
is a variety that differs from the prized white truffle due to its intense aroma and strong, penetrating flavor. It has a spicier taste and an even more pronounced garlicky scent than the fine white truffle.