Each autumn, the town of Alba, nestled among the Langhe hills, becomes the vibrant center of Italian gastronomy with the International Alba White Truffle Fair, one of the world’s most celebrated and anticipated food and wine events. This year, the fair welcomes visitors from October to December with a full program of events showcasing not only the white truffle but also the rich cultural, historical, and scenic heritage of Piedmont.
The Alba white truffle (Tuber magnatum Pico) is the undisputed star of the fair. Renowned for its intense and unique aroma, it is considered one of the world’s most precious culinary treasures, often referred to as “the earth’s gold.” Its rarity and the specialized method of gathering it—alongside specially trained dogs—add to its mystique and value. At the fair, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy guided tastings and buy this exquisite tuber directly from local truffle hunters, guaranteeing the highest quality and freshness.
The World Alba White Truffle Market is the heartbeat of the fair. Located in the Cortile della Maddalena, the market is a place where visitors, chefs, and restaurateurs from around the globe can admire, purchase, and savor the white truffle. Each specimen is carefully selected, evaluated, and certified to ensure premium standards.
Another highlight of the fair is the World Alba White Truffle Auction, a charity event that attracts participants from all over the world. With live satellite connections, the auction allows collectors worldwide to bid on the largest and most prized truffles, with proceeds going to charity projects, adding a philanthropic dimension to the fair.
The Alba White Truffle Fair is also a place of discovery for food and wine lovers. Sensory truffle analysis, led by expert truffle specialists, provides a unique experience to learn about the truffle’s characteristics and how to best pair it. In addition, Masterclasses with Michelin-starred chefs allow participants to learn how to prepare refined dishes featuring truffles, showcasing local culinary traditions.
The fair is also accompanied by tastings of Langhe and Roero wines, such as Barolo, Barbaresco, and Nebbiolo, which are perfect accompaniments to truffle dishes. This pairing of truffles and the region’s prestigious wines is an unmissable opportunity for anyone wishing to fully experience Piedmont’s wine and food culture.
Alongside the culinary aspect, the Alba White Truffle Fair celebrates the rich culture and artistry of the region with exhibitions, performances, and guided tours through the villages of the Langhe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fair also hosts conferences, workshops, and meetings with experts and personalities from the worlds of culture and gastronomy, creating a complete experience that goes beyond taste.
Additionally, a commitment to sustainability is a core value of the fair. The Alba white truffle represents a symbol of the Langhe’s biodiversity, and the fair promotes sustainable harvesting and consumption practices, helping to preserve a product that future generations can continue to enjoy.
The International Alba White Truffle Fair attracts thousands of visitors, from food lovers and chefs to restaurateurs and curious tourists. Combining culinary excellence, culture, and tradition, it offers a unique opportunity to discover the authenticity of this territory and to immerse oneself in the flavors and aromas of the Langhe.
For those seeking an authentic and unforgettable experience, the Alba White Truffle Fair is a sensory journey celebrating the beauty of nature, Italian culinary tradition, and the timeless allure of one of the world’s most treasured ingredients.
Fiera Internazionale del Tartufo Bianco d’Alba – Scopri tutti gli eventi