The truffle, the 'black diamond' of Comtat

Did you know that Vaucluse is the leading department in producing the famous black truffle, known as the winter truffle because its harvest runs from mid-November to mid-March? It has a relatively round shape with protuberances and a slightly granular surface whose roughness resembles the facets of a diamond... hence its nickname! This precious mushroom with a woody fragrance and a strong aroma goes well with very simple dishes and is often consumed raw, grated directly over certain dishes: a slice of buttered bread, scrambled eggs, or a rich cheese like Brie or Brillat-Savarin are enough to reveal its full flavor.

The Truffle Museum in Monieux, at the foot of the Ventoux, invites you to discover the history of the "black diamond": where it comes from, how it is harvested and how it is used, thanks to a multi-sensory table, film projections, photographs and other objects linked to truffle growing.
Musée de la Truffe du Ventoux - 1, Place Jean Gabert, Monieux, France - Tel. 04 90 64 03 09

Where to get black truffles?

If you don't personally know a producer, the simplest way is to visit the truffle markets in Vaucluse. One of the oldest and most significant is in Carpentras, held every Friday morning  from mid-November to mid-March. On Aristide-Briand Square, it's the meeting place for professionals. Truffle growers, chefs, and brokers follow a precise ritual there: hushed discussions, discreet weighing, cash payments... Not far away, on the forecourt of the Maison de Pays, is the retail market, catering to individuals. There, you can choose your truffles based on their size but especially the intensity of their fragrance.
Professional market: Cour de l'Hôtel-Dieu, Place Aristide Briand from 9 a.m.
Retail market (individual sales): Parvis de la Maison de Pays - Tourist Office from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Meeting the Truffle Growers

Do you want to know more about how this mysterious mushroom, which grows underground in limestone, sandy, or clayey soil, is harvested? The best way is to accompany a truffle hunter to the heart of a natural truffle grove. 'Caveur' (gatherer) or 'rabassier' is the name given to these enthusiasts that you meet under the oaks on winter days, armed with a hoe and assisted by a dog trained from a young age. Some offer discovery sessions, sometimes followed by a tasting. It's an opportunity to interact with committed truffle growers who have turned their passion into a profession.

Gourmet getaway in Provence

Treat yourself to a sunny getaway this winter; at Slow Provence, we can create a truffle-centered stay for you, with cozy accommodations, a truffle grove outing with a professional truffle grower, followed by a 100% truffle meal... It’s the perfect opportunity to escape for a weekend or more in the South to soak up the sun and make unforgettable memories!

La Rocaline, located in Beaumes-de-Venise, is the ideal place to relax after a day of truffle discovery. This charming house can accommodate up to 6 people and is also pet-friendly, perfect for a stay with family or friends. Come and enjoy the peace and quiet of the region, while being close to the truffle fields and markets of the Vaucluse.