The “Ban des Truffes” in December marks the official opening of the Richerenches truffle market, the largest national black truffle market, which celebrated its 100th anniversary earlier on this month!
On Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December 2023
History buffs flock to the little village of Richerenches, located at the heart of a curious Vaucluse area tucked away in the neighbouring Drôme département, where they enjoy exploring the wonderful ruins of one of the first Knights Templar commandery in Provence (1136).
But the village is also familiar to those who appreciate fine food, as the best truffles in the region are sold at its weekly winter market.
Over the years since 1923, the market has become one of the largest truffle markets in Europe, and it is said that 700 kg of truffles are sold each Saturday morning in the height of the season (January-February). The truffles are sold directly out of car boots to brokers who come from all over France. Young mycorrhizal trees can also be bought there, along with truffle-flavoured olive oil or other products made using the precious mushroom, the aromas of which waft through the narrow streets of the village.
On 2 and 3 December 2023, the village celebrated the 100th season of this gourmet market during a festive weekend.
©Kessler