Fresh Black Winter Truffle - Tuber melanosporum

Tuber melanosporum: The Black Diamond of Winter

When the Italian forests are in deep hibernation, one of the most sought-after culinary treasures in the world reaches its absolute perfection: the Tuber melanosporum. This precious winter truffle primarily grows underground, in a close ecological symbiosis with the roots of specific tree species such as oaks (Quercus) and hazelnut trees (Corylus avellana).

The aroma of the Tuber melanosporum is legendary powerful. It emits an intense aroma with deep, earthy and subtly spicy notes that become more complex as the truffle ripens. The flavour is rich and full with an elegant finish. This makes it the ultimate partner for refined winter dishes such as creamy risottos, fresh pastas, egg dishes, red meat and aged cheeses.

Our Strict On-Demand Service for the Black Diamond

Just like with the white truffle, the market for the Tuber melanosporum is characterised by seasonal scarcity and weekly fluctuating daily prices. To guarantee the shortest lead time between the Italian ground and your kitchen, we work exclusively on order:

1. Request: Fill in the reservation form with your desired weight (from 50 g).

2. Verification: We verify the current harvest and market price directly with our trifolau in Italy and send a tailored proposal with a direct payment link within 24 hours.

3. Harvest & Shipping: After payment, the dogs set off. The truffle is immediately conditioned and vacuum packed for shipping to your kitchen.

Unique Profile & Culinary Advice

• Heat Treatment: Unlike the white truffle, the Tuber melanosporum is more robust. The aroma beautifully combines with fats (such as butter or cream) when gently warmed in sauces, fillings, or risottos.

• Raw Use: Of course, it is also fantastic to shave fresh over warm dishes at the very last moment.

• Gastronomic Tip (Aroma Infusion): Store the truffle in an airtight jar with fresh raw eggs or risotto rice. The aroma penetrates through the porous shell or grain, creating a fantastic flavour base even before cooking.

• Storage Advice: Remove the truffle from the vacuum packaging upon receipt. Wrap it in dry kitchen paper and store it in a sealed glass jar in the fridge (2–4°C). Replace the paper daily to prevent moisture buildup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the difference between Tuber melanosporum and Tuber brumale?

  The Tuber melanosporum (Périgord truffle) is considered the absolute king among black truffles with a more complex, deeper and more intense aroma. The Tuber brumale has a slightly lighter marbling pattern and a somewhat milder aroma profile, making it more budget-friendly.

• Why is there a minimum purchase of 50 grams?

  The conditioned express logistics and the personal commitment of our trifolau require a minimum volume size to justify the highest freshness and quality.

• How long does this truffle stay good?

  With proper refrigerated storage in absorbent paper, the Tuber melanosporum remains at its best for an average of 7 to 10 days after receipt.

Product specifications

• Product: Fresh Black Winter Truffle (Tuber melanosporum)

• Brand / Selection: Selected by Kelvini – Italian Artisan

• Botanical Name: Tuber melanosporum Vittad.

• Commercial Name: Precious Black Winter Truffle / Périgord Truffle / Tartufo Nero Pregiato

• Italy (In symbiosis with oak and hazelnut trees)

• Harvest Period: Winter period (November to March)

• Delivery Method: Exclusively On-Demand via personal reservation

• Minimum Purchase: From 50 grams

• Allergens: 100% Natural wild-picked product. Free from allergens.

The story of Tuber melanosporum (Precious Winter Truffle):

The Tuber melanosporum, often referred to in gastronomy as the Périgord or black winter truffle, is an underground living ectomycorrhizal fungus. The fungus develops in the winter months (November to March) in close symbiosis with the root systems of Quercus (oak) and Corylus avellana (hazelnut). The ecological complexity and the necessity of specific soil temperatures make the winter harvest scarce and exclusive. Kelvini Italian Artisan integrates this product into a direct-to-consumer on-demand model to minimise the logistical chain between the Italian truffle hunters and the end user, thereby maximising the preservation of the volatile aromatic profile.