Uncinatum

Scientific Name

Tuber uncinatum

Common Names

Burgundy Truffle

Seasons

September – January in Northern Hemisphere

Description

More tolerant to cold than T. melanosporum, T. uncinatum has been shown to be the same species as the T. aestivum however they differentiate enough in term of seasonality, appearance and flavor to keep them separated on Truffle Board. With bodies (ascocarps) from 2 to 10 centimeters (1 to 4 inches) in diameter, burgundy truffles are relatively large. Their brown or black outer skin (peridium) forms pyramidal warts about 3 to 9 mm wide, resembling rough bark.

Aroma/Flavor

They have an intense, hazelnut-like aroma (more intense than T. aestivum) and are highly prized for their gastronomic qualities. Because of their delicate flavor they are used in the haute cuisine of France and Italy, as a substitute for T. melanosporum.

Distribution

They have a wider natural distribution than any other truffle species. Burgundy truffles are found across Europe, from Spain to eastern Europe and from Sweden to North Africa. In France they are found mainly in the north and north-east of Italy. In the United Kingdom they were plentiful prior to the 20th century, but are now rare. Their distribution may not yet be definitively established as in 2007 there were unconfirmed reports of finding it in China.

Farmed in France, Spain, Italie, Australia, New Zeland, Chile, USA, Argentina, England.