Truffles
Our Story
Black Perigord Truffles
Anthonij Rupert Wyne in Franschhoek proudly stands as the first wine estate in South Africa to both cultivate and produce black Perigord truffles. These exceptional quality truffles are nurtured at their Altima Estate, benefiting from the region’s ideal cool climate conditions for cultivating these rare delicacies. In September 2010, inoculated Quercus Robur (English oak) trees were planted. Truffle hunter, or Trifulau, Hanene van Dyk, trained in Piedmont, Italy, collaborates closely with her specially-trained Lagotto Romagnolo dogs to hunt for these prized truffles.
Our
Orchards
The truffle orchards encompass a total area of about 4 hectares. Ideal soil pH falls between 7.5 and 7.9. Over time, a desirable “truffle brûlé” develops, signifying natural weed control and the presence of truffle mycorrhizae*. A fascinating symbiosis exists between the tree, mycorrhizae, and the truffle. The tree and truffle exchange nutrients through their connected roots and the mycorrhizae. Insects and other fauna aid in spore dispersal.
The orchard floor requires sufficient filtered sunlight, achievable through strategic pruning. Following harvest, minimal disturbance is crucial within the orchards to optimize year-round truffle formation.
*The associations between roots and fungi.
About Our
Dogs
Our truffle hunting companions are Lagotto Romagnolo dogs. The founding pair, Dic and Cara, were imported from Alba, Italy. These remarkable canines boast not only exceptional intelligence and an unparalleled sense of smell, but also loving and loyal personalities. Our team is comprised of six expertly trained truffle dogs: Cara, Zara, Stella, Charley, Luna, and Nonna. Highly focused on the task, these dogs take immense joy in uncovering truffles and witnessing the happiness of the truffle hunter (Trifulau).
The
Harvest
The truffle harvest season kicks off in the last week of May and extends until the first week of August, with some variation depending on the year’s weather patterns and accumulated cold units. The well-trained truffle dogs ensure an effective harvest and receive a treat for every ripe truffle they locate. They skilfully signal their finds by pawing at the ground. A well-trained dog will lead the Trifulau (truffle hunter) directly to the bounty. Winter weather conditions can impact harvest schedules, so truffles are only extracted when the ground is suitable. To ensure the highest quality, truffles must exhibit a dark brown or black interior with white marbling and a mature aroma. Any unripe truffles are left to develop further underground.
About Our
Truffles
Altima Estate is the first producing Wine Estate in the Western Cape of South Africa. We have been cultivating Black Perigord truffles since 2010, and started harvesting truffles in 2015. Black truffles (also known as Tuber Melanosporum) can be cultivated, but it’s a long term project. Initial harvests are modest, with the first truffles typically appearing after 5-10 years from planting. We were fortunate to find our first truffle after just 5 years! Interestingly, variations in soil composition can influence the shape of the truffles. Once harvested, the truffles are meticulously cleaned and graded.
Truffle Information
Keeping your truffles fresher for longer
1. Wrap
Individually wrap each truffle in a fresh sheet of kitchen paper towel.
2. Store
Place the wrapped truffles in a clean, airtight plastic or glass container. A flip-top jar with tight seal works well.
3. Maintain
Change the paper towel every 24 hours and re-wrap the truffles.
4. Refrigerate
Return the wrapped truffles to their container and refrigerate.
Storage tips for fresh truffles
Tip 1:
Store fresh eggs in the same container as your truffles. The slightly permeable eggshell allows the amazing truffle flavours to infuse, giving you the perfect ingredient for a deliciously rich, truffle omelette.
Tip 2:
Don’t throw away the paper towel once you’ve unwrapped the truffle. Place it in your jar of Arborio rice to add tantalizing hints of truffle to your nect risotto.
How to enjoy and use truffles?
1. Prepare
Slice into slivers or grae the truffles.
2. Serve
Enjoy them on pasta, eggs or steak.
3. Pair
Truffles go exceptionally well with dairy products.
Products & Experiences
Salt (200g)
R80
Butter (R150g)
R120
Fresh Truffle
R20 p/gram
Experience our truffle-inspired dining experiences, featuring four exquisite courses, each crafted to highlight the rich flavours of Black Perigord Truffle and perfectly paired with wines from our terroir-specific Cape of Good Hope wine range.