CURRENT SPECIALS!
Tassie Truffles!
The new Tasmanian Truffles season has begun. Tim Terry from Tasmanian Truffle Enterprises harvested his first truffles of the season the week of 15 June. He's not sure what awaits him under the ground but "they're certainly smelling quite nice" says Mr Terry who is hoping to harvest some 100kg of truffles this year.
And despite the esteem the truffle, almost as ugly as racism, commands the hunting and digging up of truffles is not a widely recognised spectator sport, yet, in Tassie though Australia's first black truffles were harvested near Deloraine in 1999.
Most of Mr Terry's truffles will be exported to international markets but those keen to get the hands on some can get them at gourmet delicatessen Wursthaus in Hobart and Launceston. They are also available from the Truffle Enterprises farm gate though you'll need to make an appointment before you visit.
The best place for a taste of truffle might be in a restaurant. French couple Remi and Ginette Bancal will show them off at Glencoe Rural Retreat at Barrington near Sheffield. Remi will be cooking traditional French country dishes on Friday and Saturday nights and will serve them up in Glencoe's intimate dining room. The cost of a three courses diner is $90 per person (excludes wine).
If you are interested in the provenance of your truffle Ginette and Remi can also organise a truffles week end, one where Glencoe guests participate in the harvesting of the truffles including watching the dogs sniff out the truffles. The Truffle weekend costs $840 per couple. It includes two nights at Glencoe, breakfasts, two truffle dinners and a guided tour of a Tasmanian Trufflerie.
The Glencoe dining room holds 12 people and there are just four Provence inspired suites at Glencoe. It wouldn't take much effort for a few friends to book the place out.
Visit the Tassie Truffles website - www.tastruffles.com.au
"See you at the Retreat!"
