Truffle production in Catalonia set to double this season

After three years of drought, rainfall in recent months in Catalonia has led to a significant boost in truffle production.  

This year's harvest could reach six tonnes, according to Daniel Oliach, director of the Trufforum in Vic, in central Catalonia. 

This event aiming at promoting the truffle for both professionals and visitors, will host its 7th edition on February 8 and 9.  

Trufforum includes a truffle market to buy guaranteed black truffles and artisanal products, activities and tastings with renowned professionals such as Nandu Jubany, Marc Gasons or Ferran Pont.   

One of the traditional activities, 'Truffle with Bubble' will consist in pairing sparkling wines with truffled products, guided by writer Empar Moliner and chef Quim Casellas.  

Visitors will be able to taste artisan cheeses, wines and truffles presented by chefs from various restaurants. Another tasting area with restaurants and pastry shops will offer dishes and tapas for a small price on Saturday. 

The city of Vic plans to host a space for children with workshops, the 'Truffle and Science Area', a book exhibition and a Catalan Truffle Dog Championship during the weekend. 

This year's Trufforum program adds a competition to name the best truffled dish in Catalonia. The final of the third edition of the Laumont Award for the Best Black Truffle Dish is to be held on Sunday morning. 

Three finalist chefs will present their recipe to the jury, the chefs Maria Nicolau and Ada Parellada and the sommelier David Seijas.  The competition will be live and in front of an audience. 

This award aims at stimulating the use of the black truffle in catering, the director of the competition explained. 

Before the main Trufforum event gets underway, there will be a Truffle Academy organized for Catalan hospitality students.