Truffle Season in Piemonte - Intimate Gathering
Setting the Scene

“I first learned of truffles later on in life.  In the summer of 1997, while studying at the French Culinary Institute, I had my initial encounter with the cherished ‘truffles of Alba.’ I recall Chef Robert Shapiro’s speaking of these magical gems with passion.  I was hooked from that moment on.  I learned about the ‘Hunt’ and quickly appreciated this fascinating gift of the earth.  A mysterious journey begins, tools in hand and large empty pockets waiting, when you set out to forge for the highly coveted truffle.  I love this part of the story because the hunting is, in fact a sport.  Because truffles are not commercially harvested, the cultivation process is not formulated.  Farmers can enhance the supply by working their magic on the roots of very young oak trees with black tuber spores.  This process is rare, challenging and labor intense. It takes a patient hand, much love and devotion.  The sport of the hunt is the inspiration behind our intimate gathering with truffle lovers.  Because they are not something common, it will be fun for your guests to be able to touch, feel, smell and taste these gastronomic gems.” – Francesca Abbracciamento

Tabletop:  Chocolate brown, hunter green and accents of ivory and tweed are perfect to set the mood for this forest-hunting chic, earthy plated dinner. A chocolate brown underlay with a tweed-textured overlay enhances the woodsy feel (or textured placemats). Try colored glassware in tones of green and amber to enhance the mood.

 

 


 

Centerpieces:  Moss-covered field pots with flowering wild flowers and herbs/greens set the tone for a ‘dinner in the woods’.  The use of trimmings that are weathered by the earth – these elements will enhance the mood and trust me – your guests will notice these details!

 

 

 


 

Mood & Décor:  Lighting should be dim and moody – try wood candle sticks with pillar candles/votives – or lanterns made of either wood or metal.

For escort cards, try simple ivory cards on small wooden easels.
 
Use elements of dark wood in table accessories – like wood baskets with linen inserted cloth as bread baskets, wooden salt & pepper mills, wood chargers or wooden napkin rings.
 
For music, try the eclectic sounds of Pino Daniele in celebration of these unique treasure.


 

 

 



 


 

 

 

Element of Fun : Francesca suggests, “Celebrate Truffles by displaying them! I like the idea of having the Truffles out and displayed on the countertop or on the table of  “touch and smell” experience.  You can still utilize them in the cooking, but the aroma that will fill your home by having the truffles out is part of the journey!”  <<more>>


 


 

 Truffle Season in Piemonte - Intimate Gathering 
Overview |Setting the Scene |To Do/Shopping List |Il Menu |Element of Fun