From Florence: Small-Group Truffle Hunting & Wine Tour with Farm Lunch & Tasting
8 hours
From 09:30
Group 1+
English, Italian
8 hours
09:30
What you'll do
Explore the enchanting Tuscan countryside and experience the captivating allure of the Chianti forests. Truffles, highly valued by the Romans, were believed to be born when Jupiter’s lightning struck an oak tree. Associated with the god's legendary promiscuity, truffles have long been revered for their aphrodisiac qualities. Immerse yourself in the charm of Tuscan landscapes and embrace the irresistible allure of these delectable treasures.
Highlights
Truffle Hunt in Tuscany Tuscany, often celebrated for its remarkable wines, holds a distinct reputation as a haven for truffle enthusiasts. Delightfully surprising to some, San Miniato, a charming Tuscan town, proudly emerges as the prime supplier of nearly 80% of the world's coveted white truffles. Allow yourself to gracefully venture through the forest in pursuit of this esteemed treasure, closely trailing the diligent sniffer dog. Feel the surge of anticipation as the canine expertly uncovers these culinary gems – a testament to their worth as they command a staggering price of almost $15,000 per kilogram.
Different varieties of truffles tantalise our taste buds in Tuscany throughout the year, an exquisite result of the area's unique climate and terrain. This revered delicacy, revered since the days of Ancient Greece and Rome, stands as a testament to the earth's bountiful offerings.
Tuber Magnatum Pico, the eminent and opulent truffle on the market, commands both fame and fortune. With its near-round shape, adorned with cavities and protruberances, its external surface appears smooth, colored in whitish-yellow hues. The internal shades fluctuate based on maturation and its symbiotic interaction with trees, exhibiting colors that range from pristine white to deep brown or even captivating rose tones. Possessing a robust aromatic scent, it offers exceptional digestibility, making it ideal for raw consumption, often sliced thinly and savored atop a myriad of culinary creations. However, its fleeting preservation demands prompt appreciation, as the duration between ripeness and decay hovers all too briefly.
Tuber Borchii Vitt or Tuber Albidum Pico, affectionately known as "Marzuolo" or the esteemed "March mushroom," manifests in a generally regular and round form without reaching imposing proportions. Adorned with a light and smooth peel, its flesh appears pale when unripe, taking on a rich reddish-brown hue when reaching maturity. Emitting a more understated fragrance than its Fine White Truffle counterpart, it frequently accompanies the White Truffle's growth. Although typically harvested between February and March, encounters in April or even autumn are not unheard of. While this truffle holds culinary merit, it lacks the exceptional value and digestibility of its counterparts, losing its scent and flavor, and transforming into a porous sponge when cooked.
Tuber Aestivum Vitt, ranging in size from 3 to 10 centimeters, boasts an exterior featuring blackish skin embellished with pyramidal warts, earning it the nickname "Scorzone," akin to rugged bark. Its hazel-colored flesh deepens with maturation, revealing lattices of whitish veins. Emitting a hint of mushroom-like bouquet, this truffle holds edible qualities, though it bears lesser renown than its Fine Black Truffle sibling. The ripening period for this delicacy spans from May through the autumn months.
Itinerary
- 1Experience the luxury of an air-conditioned vehicle accompanied by a knowledgeable Driver Guide as we embark on a journey to the captivating Chianti Wine Region. Along the way, we'll make stops at scenic locations where you can capture memorable photos. Our next destination is the enchanting San Gimignano, renowned for its rich history and breathtaking beauty.
- 2Indulge in a panoramic stop at the renowned Michelangelo plaza, offering mesmerizing views that will leave you captivated. As the Ultimate Travel Company, we bring you an extraordinary Truffle Guide experience, accompanied by expertly trained dogs. Immerse yourself in the art of truffle hunting and savor the flavors during a delectable lunch and tasting.
- 3To complete this exceptional journey, we will visit a prestigious wine estate where you can indulge in the elegance and charm of wine tasting. Join us on this remarkable adventure and let us create unforgettable memories together.
- 4Please note this description is an example of foods you might taste and will vary depending on the season, day of the week, and group size.
- 5Upon completion of your tour, you'll be able to purchase wine directly from the source. If you're interested, you can also inquire about the vineyard's shipping options.
What's not included
Although not compulsory, our team of tour guides would deeply appreciate gratuities and tips as a display of gratitude for the exceptional service they provide.
Pick up and drop off at your hotel is not included as we meet at a fixed location at PIAZZA MENTANA (MENTANA SQUARE) in Florence (outside Balestri Hotel) at 9.30 am
Sadly, we have to notify you that our tour is not suitable or accessible to wheelchair users due to the challenging terrain at the venues we visit.
We do not provide infant seats, and for safety reasons, children must not be seated on an adult's lap.
Meeting Points
The Meeting point is PIAZZA MENTANA (MENTANA SQUARE) in Florence (outside Balestri Hotel).
Kindly ensure you are punctual and reach the meeting point 10-15 minutes prior to the departure time.
We pick up you directly at your address in Florence or Pisa or Siena or in Chianti Wine the region
Notes
- No matter what the weather, our tour runs rain or shine
- The tour includes food, drinks, and wine tastings as outlined in the itinerary
- Additional orders placed during the tour must be paid for by the individual who orders them. If unsure, the tour guide will be happy to assist
- Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended as there is some walking involved during your tour
- If you're under the age of 18, unfortunately, you cannot consume alcohol. However, there are plenty of delicious non-alcoholic options available
- Your tour can be conducted in multiple languages
- The tour lasts 8 hours starting at 9.30 am
- We take pride in offering a collection of mouth-watering delicacies catering to diverse palates. If you have special dietary requirements or allergies please let us know while booking
- Your tour will be led by an expert guide, who is local and has a passion for sharing extensive knowledge about Italianfood and wine, history, and culture
Gallery
Cancellation policy
A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.
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