Truffle News
Tuesday, November 20th, 2007What to expect from your favorite tubers this season
By now you’ve probably heard the rumors: truffles are scarce and prices are sky-high. We’re sorry to say that, for the most part, it’s true. A dry summer has led to a much lower yield - up to 75% less truffles according to some reports. This scarcity combined with a high demand worldwide and the continuing decline in the value of the dollar has led to prices much higher than last year.
Yet even as we fret about the situation, our first shipment of truffles has arrived from Italy and their heady perfume is wafting through the office. They may not be as big as in years passed but they are no less intoxicating. Despite the situation, we couldn’t imagine a winter without truffles adding depth and luxury to our tagiletelle and risottos.
We’ll bring in a shipment of truffles each week to ensure maximum freshness. Due to the limited availability and high price, we’ll sell then on a pre-order basis. To make sure that we can fullfill your needs, please place your order at least one week in advance.
Right now we’re entering the last few weeks of the summer truffle (Tuber uncinatum) which have been surprisingly fragrant and tasty this year. Soon, these will be replaced by the true winter black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) from Umbria. With any luck, these will be a bit less affected by the seasonal conditions than the white truffles. The white Alba truffle (Tuber magnatum), the real gem from Piemonte, have also arrived even though though their size is a bit smaller. We’re hoping to bring them in through March depending on availability.
We’ll keep you posted through the season. Please call to place orders, check availability or with any questions.
