The white truffle is oft described as elusive but at this fair, it reigns supreme and is plentiful. Fiera Internazionale del Tartufo Bianco d’Alba or International Alba White Truffle Fair takes place each year during October and November in the city of Alba in Piemonte, Italy. Since the white truffle is superior to the French varietals of truffles, foodies, chefs, restaurateurs, and also other gourmands flock to the heart of Italy’s truffle country to indulge in the fair and all it offers.
Samples, Samples, Samples
You’ll experience nearly every imaginable sample as vendors share their wares. In addition, you’ll experience local cheeses, charcuterie, and regional delicacies. The wines produced locally that have all reached a level of acclaim including Moscato, Dolcetto, Barbaresco, Arneis, Roero, Favorita, Barolo, Barbera, Nebbiolo, and more. But, you’ll find the charming events throughout the fair a lovely accompaniment to the featured white truffles. Those events include historical handball, the Palio deli Asini (donkey race), and also the Festival of the Flag.
The Main Event
The part of the event that many consider to be the main event is very exclusive and is quite elusive to most. The most valuable and best truffles at the event are actually put up for auction. The auction, however, is by invitation-only thereby ensuring its exclusivity.
Foodie Haven
Beyond the samples of truffle cheese, truffle oil, and all things truffle, this fair is definitely a must for anyone who considers themselves to be a foodie. You’ll experience talks about truffles and other educational experiences. You can also try a truffle sensory analysis or an opportunity to take a foraging expedition.
Cheers to the Truffle
What would any trip to Italy be without experiencing the wine of the region? One of the most prolific wine regions of Italy which encompasses Le Marche, Umbria, Piedmont, Emilia Romagna, Molise, and Tuscany, the wine representation at the Alba fair is unparalleled at any of the other regional festivals. They’ve even incorporated it into an event called the Wine Tasting Experience which will thrill your palate.
Peaceful Rest
As you’re likely to be full and nearing exhaustion at the end of the day, you’ll need accommodations to help you revitalize for the next day’s events. There are several unique spaces in the area that will meet your needs, however, the Hotel Castello di Sinio is one of our favorites in the area. This historical inn was built in 1142 and restored from 2000 to 2005. The Hotel Castello di Sinio is a retreat in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Its restaurant, the surrounding region, and of course the White Truffle Fair will make this a vacation of a lifetime.
So will you be attending the International Alba White Truffle Fair this year? Perhaps it’s in your traveler plans for next year? It’s seems to be on the bucket list of most foodies and is definitely a once in a lifetime experience. After the fair, be sure to make a stop in Rome for a few days as well!
