Truffles; you've probably heard of them before, right? But what are they, why are they such a big deal in Tuscany, how can you get your hands on them, and how can you best enjoy them?
What are they?
Truffles are described as “the fruiting body of a subterranean Ascomycete fungus, predominantly one of the many species of the genus Tuber.” Essentially, they are a type of mushroom that are found in France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Spain, Sweden, New Zealand, Australia, Chile and South Africa. However, the most famous truffles in the world tend to be those from Italy and the area around San Miniato, in Tuscany, in particular.
Usually found in forested areas, by the base of trees, truffles are harvested in Autumn and are a highly prized food that can go for large sums of money. They are held in high esteem in French, Italian, Ottoman, Middle Eastern and Spanish cuisine and are increasingly desired world wide as a special delicacy.
Why are they such a big deal in Tuscany?
Piedmont is famously home to the Tuber magnatum, a high-value white truffle, also known as the Trifola d'Alba Madonna ("Truffle of the White Madonna") and these are the varieties that can cost hundreds or thousands of euros for small amounts. As such, this is one of the most important truffle regions in the world. Tuscany, meanwhile, is home to one of the most important truffle celebrations or festivals in the world, which takes place annually in San Miniato.
How can you get your hands on truffles?
The best way is to come find a vacation rental in San Miniato and partake in the San Miniato National White Truffle Market, which is held in the city every year during the last three weeks of November. It is comprised of many different gastronomic and cultural events and a fair selling all sorts of Tuscan foods, beverages and products!
How can you best enjoy them?
Knowing you have one of our wonderful Tuscan holiday rentals to return home to at the end of the day, of course!
Why are they such a big deal in Tuscany?
Piedmont is famously home to the Tuber magnatum, a high-value white truffle, also known as the Trifola d'Alba Madonna ("Truffle of the White Madonna") and these are the varieties that can cost hundreds or thousands of euros for small amounts. As such, this is one of the most important truffle regions in the world. Tuscany, meanwhile, is home to one of the most important truffle celebrations or festivals in the world, which takes place annually in San Miniato.
How can you get your hands on truffles?
The best way is to come find a vacation rental in San Miniato and partake in the San Miniato National White Truffle Market, which is held in the city every year during the last three weeks of November. It is comprised of many different gastronomic and cultural events and a fair selling all sorts of Tuscan foods, beverages and products!
How can you best enjoy them?
Knowing you have one of our wonderful Tuscan holiday rentals to return home to at the end of the day, of course!