The truffle auction in Alba in Piedmont is considered the most exclusive of its kind. Gourmets from all over the world bid via video. In total, truffles were auctioned on Sunday for almost 400,000 euros. The annual truffle auction has been held in Alba for almost 100 years and serves charitable purposes. White truffles are collected in the region from September 21st to January 31st.
According to experts, the prices for top-quality white truffles this year are 3,500 euros per kilo. For the less renowned black truffles, the price per kilo is around 500 euros. There are around 200,000 truffle collectors in Italy. They generate sales of 500 million euros per year.
Unique scent and taste
Because of their unique scent and taste, truffles from Alba have been fetching top prices for years. In order to find the rare “diamonds of the kitchen”, which thrive up to 30 centimeters underground in the roots of oak, chestnut or poplar trees, truffle dogs are usually used to sniff out the tubers with their excellent noses.
The white truffle is considered the most expensive delicacy in the world. Gourmets eat them by the gram, grated very thinly; in Italy, they prefer to be eaten over pasta. Experts call the delicious mushroom Tuber magnatum pico. Every year during truffle season, the expensive specialty is sought and celebrated in Italy, especially in the regions of Umbria, Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna.
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**Interview with Truffle Expert and Auctioneer, Marco Bellini**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Marco, especially after such an exciting truffle auction in Alba. Can you tell us about the significance of this auction?
**Marco Bellini:** Thank you for having me! The truffle auction in Alba is incredibly prestigious and has been an annual event for nearly a century. It’s not just a marketplace; it’s a celebration of gourmet culture and also supports charitable causes. This year, we auctioned nearly 400,000 euros worth of truffles – an incredible amount that highlights the demand for these unique delicacies.
**Editor:** That’s impressive! What were some of the standout prices for truffles this year?
**Marco Bellini:** This year, top-quality white truffles reached prices of around 3,500 euros per kilo. The less sought-after black truffles sold for about 500 euros per kilo. The quality and rarity of these truffles play a significant role in their pricing, and this auction reflects that.
**Editor:** What makes truffles from Alba so special compared to truffles from other regions?
**Marco Bellini:** The unique soil and climate of Alba contribute to the exceptional aroma and flavor of its truffles. They thrive in symbiosis with specific trees like oak, chestnut, and poplar, typically found in this area. The combination of these factors makes Alba’s truffles some of the best in the world, which is why they have earned the title of “diamonds of the kitchen.”
**Editor:** I’ve heard that truffle hunters often employ dogs for their searches. Can you elaborate on that?
**Marco Bellini:** Absolutely! Truffle dogs are essential for finding these underground treasures. Their keen sense of smell allows them to detect the scent of truffles, which can lie up to 30 centimeters beneath the surface. This partnership between dog and hunter is a traditional practice that has become crucial in preserving the truffle collecting culture.
**Editor:** And how is the truffle enjoyed once it’s harvested?
**Marco Bellini:** The white truffle, in particular, is often used in gourmet dishes, typically grated very thinly over pasta or risotto. It’s all about enhancing the experience with its rich and earthy flavor. In Italy, it’s a true delicacy, savored and celebrated during the season.
**Editor:** It sounds like a culinary treasure! With around 200,000 truffle collectors in Italy generating significant annual sales, what does this mean for the future of truffle hunting?
**Marco Bellini:** There’s a growing appreciation for truffles both in Italy and globally. However, it’s vital to ensure sustainable practices, as overharvesting can threaten this delicacy. Education and responsible hunting practices will play key roles in preserving truffle ecosystems for future generations.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing these insights, Marco. It’s fascinating to learn about the world of truffles, especially the significant role the Alba auction plays in this culinary tradition.
**Marco Bellini:** Thank you for having me! It’s my pleasure to highlight the beauty and complexity of truffles. I encourage everyone to experience them firsthand—there’s truly nothing like it!
