Few ingredients capture the imagination of gastronomes like truffles, and La Rustichella Truffles proved to be the ultimate host for an unforgettable two-day trip showcasing their luxurious truffle products and the breathtaking regions of Piedmont and Lazio. From misty mornings and vineyard tours to the captivating process of creating truffle delicacies, here’s a recount of our extraordinary journey.
Our adventure began with an early start in Piedmont, where the crisp, misty air set the tone for the day. After a light breakfast of jam-filled pastries, cakes, fresh fruit, and freshly squeezed orange juice, the La Rustichella team whisked us away to Barolo. The picturesque town, known for its world-renowned wines, was a delight to explore, with expert insights from our hosts on local wineries and the nuances of truffle hunting seasons. Over a steaming cappuccino, we absorbed the beauty and culture of the region, preparing ourselves for the day’s main events.
From Barolo, we ventured to Antica Cascina dei Conti Roero, a family-run vineyard in Vezza d’Alba.
Driving through rolling hills dotted with vineyards and Italianate architecture, we arrived at this charming winery, greeted warmly by its owners, Daniela and Luigi. Married in a church overlooking their vineyards, the couple exchanged careers in jewellery for winemaking in 1970. Their passion for viticulture was infectious as Luigi guided us through the vineyards, sharing stories about their prized white wine grape, Arneis, and their dedication to biodiversity, with 30% of their land set aside for wildlife habitats.
The vineyard tour concluded with a tasting session, where we savoured their red, white, and sparkling wines paired with artisanal breadsticks, cheeses, and cured meats. The highlight? A sip of their Roero Arneis DOCG Riserva, crafted from the first vines Daniela and Luigi planted together
Next, it was time for a truffle hunt. Guided by truffle experts and their skilled canine companions, we trekked through nearby forests in search of the elusive white truffle. The anticipation of unearthing these aromatic treasures, with their unique garlic and pepper notes, made the experience truly thrilling. With a small but fragrant selection of truffles in hand, we reflected on the magic of this time-honoured tradition.
Our day ended at Osteria delle Aie, a cozy yet elegant restaurant where we shared a meal with the La Rustichella team, Daniela, Luigi, and fellow guests. The menu showcased local flavours with a truffle-inspired twist. From duck and prosciutto starters to a rich chicken pasta and a delicate tiramisu, each dish was paired with impeccable wines, leaving us satisfied and ready for the next day’s adventures.
An early morning flight brought us to Rome, where we continued our culinary journey at La Rustichella’s state-of-the-art truffle factory. Here, we were given a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous process of creating their renowned truffle products. From cleaning and filling glass jars with truffle paste to quality checks and labelling, the factory tour highlighted the precision and care that goes into every jar. We learned fascinating tips, such as the importance of using round truffles for uniform slices when shaving.
Across the street from the factory lies the “Truffle Temple,” the aptly named Love Truffles Restaurant. Led by Chef Alessio Di Domenico and Lorenzo Costa, the culinary team prepared a sumptuous feast that celebrated the versatility of La Rustichella’s truffle products. Each dish was a testament to their craftsmanship, starting with a truffle and pancetta toasty and moving to standout dishes like Picanha carpaccio, truffle-infused Panzanella, and their signature Risotto Parmigiano Reggiano. A creamy Truffle Cremole Egg served in a ceramic shell added a whimsical touch, while the variety of fresh side platters provided a perfect balance to the warming, decadent mains.
As a parting gift, we received goody bags filled with La Rustichella’s finest products, including truffle oil, honey, and paste, along with fresh truffles to experiment with at home.
Before our final evening, we visited the charming town of Frascati. Known for its rich history and culinary traditions, the town offered a moment of leisure and discovery. We sampled the legendary ‘Miss Frascati’ biscuit, a treat with roots in local folklore, and indulged in what locals proudly proclaimed as the best pizza in Frascati—a claim we wholeheartedly agreed with. The combination of ancient architecture, vibrant streets, and unforgettable food made this stop a delightful addition to the trip.
Perched atop a hill with sweeping views of Rome and the surrounding mountains, Villa Tuscolana was the perfect place to end our journey. The historic hotel, with its grand interiors and serene atmosphere, provided a moment of reflection after two packed days of culinary and cultural indulgence. Watching the sun set over the Roman skyline was the perfect finale to our adventure.
La Rustichella’s trip was a masterclass in showcasing the allure of truffles and the regions that produce them. From the misty vineyards of Piedmont to the bustling factory and gourmet dining in Lazio, every moment was thoughtfully curated to highlight the craftsmanship and passion behind La Rustichella’s products.
This journey wasn’t just about food; it was about connecting with the stories, people, and landscapes that make truffles one of the world’s most coveted ingredients. A trip to remember, and an inspiration to bring a little truffle magic into our own kitchens.
Photo credit: Joshua Greenwood
