The black truffle season begins in December and ends in mid-March. Now, at the beginning of the year, is the best time to buy black truffles from Aragon, as two key factors converge: the truffle reaches its optimal ripeness, and its price is also at its peak, at least for those who want to enjoy this culinary gem.
In previous articles, we focused on the maturation cycle of the black truffle . In this article, we want to reveal the secrets that make January the perfect time to buy black truffles from Aragon. You can buy black truffles on our website.
January and February are special months for the maturation of the black truffle.
While November's early rains mark the beginning of the season's climatic and soil conditions, it is between January and February that the black truffle reaches its peak maturity and aromatic intensity . This is the time of year when the black truffle's qualities are at their most prominent, and the black truffle from Aragon becomes a culinary jewel thanks to its unique environment, with its high altitude and soil.
The price cycle of the black truffle in Aragon
The second factor we want to discuss, which makes now the best time to buy black truffles from Aragon, is their price. Now is when black truffles reach their best price relative to their quality and ripeness.
While the start of the season is characterized by a limited supply that drives prices up, as the season progresses, the supply increases, with 100% of the black truffles now mature, and prices fall accordingly. Furthermore, it's worth noting that demand for black truffles decreases after the Christmas holidays, so the price tends to self-regulate.
Although the supply varies throughout the season, the search for this delicacy never ceases, and the demand, although it may fluctuate, remains demanding, especially among chefs around the world who wish to incorporate this little gem into their dishes.
The factors that determine the price of black truffles
Although we saw a few years ago, in the midst of the pandemic and with the hospitality industry forced to close, how the prices of black truffles fell to €200 , the demand for black truffles continues to grow nationally and internationally.
As for supply, it is difficult to predict. Weather conditions are crucial. In years with a good balance of rainfall and weather, production increases and helps moderate prices.
Now the problem seems to be the opposite: with climate change, production has decreased by half – according to 2022 data – which, combined with the growing demand for black truffles, has driven prices from €300 to around €500, a 30% increase. The lack of rain and rising temperatures are contrary to the black truffle's need for cold temperatures .
Climatic conditions also determine the quality of the black truffle, another determinant of the higher or lower price of the black truffle.
Truffle consumption (and production) the rest of the year
Tuber melanosporum, known as the black winter truffle, is the jewel in the crown. Its intense flavor and distinctive aroma make it a coveted ingredient in haute cuisine.
As the season progresses, other varieties, such as Tuber aestivum (summer truffle), also come into play, offering options for all tastes. Prices vary according to rarity and demand, creating a wide range of possibilities for buyers.
Spain (and Aragon), world leaders in the production (and prices) of black truffles
Spain has emerged as the world's leading producer of Tuber melanosporum, the black truffle, with a production in 2022 of around 120 tons, four times more than Italy and three times more than France.
The rise of the black truffle in Aragon not only benefits farmers, but also raises Spain's position on the international stage of haute cuisine, where truffles can reach prices of up to 1,500 euros per kilo .
Black truffle production in Aragon: Sarrión, Graus and the Moncayo area
The town of Sarrión (in Teruel), particularly known for its seemingly unfavorable soil conditions, is leading this truffle boom, contributing 80% of Spain's total production. This success is attributed to the use of vast irrigated areas and the mycorrhization process.
In Huesca, more than 350 people are dedicated to this crop with some 2,500 hectares of plantations, and where the town of Graus is established as a benchmark.
In the lands surrounding Moncayo , truffle production is widespread, exceeding 400 hectares. Interest in establishing new farms continues to grow, supported by the optimal growing conditions in this environment. Local producers aim to help the black truffle of Aragon solidify the region's position as a global leader in truffle production.
On our website you can buy the best quality black truffles from Aragon .
The festivities surrounding the black truffle in Aragon
It's no wonder, then, that the black truffle of Aragon is the jewel that marks the beginning of the fair season – and almost its end. Fairs like those in Sarrión or Torre de las Arcas in Teruel, in Sástago and Vera del Moncayo in Zaragoza, or in Graus , in Huesca, put the treasure of the black truffle of Aragon on the map and help to boost its growth.
In conclusion, the start of black truffle season in Aragon is an exciting time for food lovers. The combination of ideal weather conditions, the diversity of truffle varieties, and the fluctuating prices throughout the season make this the perfect time to buy black truffles from Aragon. Immerse yourself in the unique experience of flavors and aromas offered by this culinary treasure and take advantage of the season's most attractive prices.
