Even in winter, the French Riviera is lucky to experience mostly clear, crisp days with minimal rainfall so traditional festivals and celebrations can be held outside in town squares or rural settings.
Today, Saturday 12 December, any foodie who hasn’t started devouring festive staples such as oysters or pain d’épice can make a trip to Le Rouret for the 1st Wine, Truffles & Foie Gras Market (Marché du Vin, des Truffes et Foie Gras) that marks the start of the black truffle season for the Alpes-Maritimes department.
Le Rouret is the departmental capital of truffles, and for 18 years the town has dedicated plots of land for truffles. In fact, the truffle union (yes, it exists!) even prepares a truffle meal at the school cantine for local children to awaken their taste buds so they can experience the subtle flavour.
The festival will have truffle vendors, entertainment and food stalls. At 7.15pm, chef Daniel Ettlinger of Michelin-starred local restaurant Le Clos Saint-Pierre will create truffle tasting dishes with an apéritif for festival attendees.
In continuation, 10 January is the 20th Marché du Truffes at Place du Rouret.
What: Marché du Vin, des Truffes et Foie Gras
Where: Place de la Libération, Le Rouret
Time: 10am-9pm
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