Renowned internationally as ‘black gold’, the culinary delicacy of fresh truffles is often a hot topic for conversation – not only for their price and scarcity but mostly for the captivating way in which they enhance the flavours of so many dishes.
Anthonij Rupert Wyne is proud to be the first wine estate in South Africa to both cultivate and produce black Perigord Truffles. These exceptional quality truffles are grown at their Altima Estate near Villiersdorp, where the cool climate is perfectly suited for the cultivation of these rare delicacies. Oaktree roots were inoculated with truffle spores and planted in September 2010. Truffle hunter (also known as a Trufelau) Hanene van Dyk, who learnt her craft in Piedmont, Italy, works closely with her specially-trained Lagotto Romagnolo dogs to hunt for the truffles.
In 2019 culinary enthusiasts were treated to an exclusive truffle experience, which included a four-course truffle-inspired lunch. For the serious truffle connoisseurs, the opportunity to visit Altima was also an option. Now in its second year of production, the intention was to repeat the experience, but in light of the current situation the world finds itself in, these tours and lunches are unlikely to take place this year. Although these may be on hold, for now, the harvesting continues, with Hanene and her dogs patiently unearthing these heavenly culinary treasures.
The culinary team at Anthonij Rupert Estate will continue to produce their sought-after truffle salt, truffle butter and truffle salami. They are also doing further product development, the results of which will be available directly from the farm in Franschhoek later this year.
tasting@rupertwines.com.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied
