The truffle is undoubtedly the undisputed king of the Oltrepò Pavese, one of the most fertile and favourable lands for its growth. Thanks to a varied and rich habitat, this territory allows the development of all existing types: as many as 44. Since the first half of the 19th century, the famous botanist Carlo Vittadini, a pioneer in the field of hydnology, the science that studies truffles, recognised Oltrepò Pavese as one of the areas of greatest truffle discovery among those he explored. The most renowned varieties include the prized white truffle (Tuber magnatum Pico), considered the king of truffles for its intense and unmistakable aroma, and the prized black truffle (Tuber melanosporum), known for its earthy fragrance and complex flavour.
The favourable environment
Thanks to the experience of local truffle hunters, who know the secrets and the places where truffles are gathered, it is possible to immerse oneself in fascinating excursions in search of these underground treasures. The woods and countryside of the Oltrepò Pavese hide true wonders, and truffle hunting is a unique experience, to be enjoyed in the company of the inseparable truffle dog, whose exquisite sense of smell is an indispensable aid.
The black truffle of Oltrepò Montano
The altitude and the position create an ideal environment for the growth of the black truffle, a delicacy loved by the gastronomy and the food industry. In particular, the upper Staffora Valley is famous for its abundance of black truffles during the harvesting season, which lasts from 1 June to 15 September.
Versatility in the kitchen
The characteristic feature of the black truffle is its rather rough skin, which is why, unlike the white truffle, which is eaten raw, the scorzone is mainly used in the kitchen, where it offers an infinite number of culinary possibilities, adding refinement and depth to dishes. Its versatility allows it to be used to flavour condiments, sauces, stuffed pasta and risotto. Its intense flavour is also perfect with cheeses, meats and eggs.
The art of waiting: the full ripeness of the black truffle
L’attesa per la piena maturazione del tartufo nero è ripagata dalla sua intensità di gusto. Gli esperti raccoglitori sanno che è fondamentale aspettare il momento giusto per cogliere il tartufo nella sua massima espressione, quando gli aromi si sono sviluppati completamente.
Truffle cultivation
There are several free truffle grounds in the Staffora valley where any truffle hunter with his dog can go in search of the scorzone. For over fifteen years, cultivated truffle grounds have also developed, where mycorrhized plants whose roots have previously been contaminated with truffle spores are planted. This is a controlled production parallel to the natural one, which ensures a greater supply of truffles.
The Menconico Truffle Festival
During the truffle season, two unmissable events animate the Alto Oltrepò Pavese. The first is the Menconico Truffle Festival, which takes place on the first Sunday in September. During this festival, truffle lovers gather to celebrate the truffle with tastings, truffle hunting demonstrations and a lively truffle hunting competition.
Zavattarello, truffles and more
Another important event is the Mushroom, Honey and Truffle Festival in Zavattarello, which takes place at the beginning of September. Gourmets gather here to discover the culinary treasures of the village and taste dishes based on fresh mushrooms and truffles.
