First truffles of season sees 'black diamond' sell for 750€/kg

IT was a busy, and profitable, day for those selling the first truffles of the season in Sainte-Alvère yesterday morning.

The small village, found to the west of Le Bugue in the Dordogne, opened its doors to around 50 buyers and those curious to see the sale of the black truffles found in the local area.

France Bleu reports that around 62 kgs of truffle were sold, with the best quality ones selling for between 600 and 750 euros a kilo.

And the demand was strong as the market was over within 15 minutes, but it is hoped that the opening day will herald a good season.

This year is expected to prove a good year for the Dordogne, as truffle producers in the south east of France have not done so well and buyers are expected to head to the region to get their fill of the 'black diamond'.

And if you want to see the truffle market yourself, then Saint Alvère will be hosting a sale every Monday morning until 26 February.