Underneath the Willamette Valley’s forests in the dead of winter lies one of the best environments in the world to grow the wild Oregon truffle. These little biome balls are highly prized additions to plates this season and make for the perfect pairing with Oregon’s famous wine.
Truffles grow in densely forested areas and, being underground and all, are difficult to spot. So instead of venturing on your own through to find these hidden nuggets, we recommend using a local guide, like Black Tie Tours for a true truffle adventure. You'll start with a chauffeured ride, then venture out on a light hike on approved land and end at a luxurious local winery for a private dining experience on your hidden treasures.
Black Tie Tours, run by founder, Stefan Czarnecki is a luxurious tour and concierge service service for those eager to explore the Willamette Valley and cherish showing guests the beauty of Oregon. You will be delighted to learn about this history, soil and climate of the region, and the uniqueness of local growers and winemakers.
Black Tie Tours is also a wine concierge service and can customize the perfect wine and touring experience tailored just for you. But when it comes to truffle hunting Stefan and his team will guide you to the spots where you can experience this rare and wonderful ingredient from February to March, here in the heart of wine country with two types of truffle-inspired tours.
Beginning with a chauffeured tour from your location, you’ll go on a light hike through Oregon backcountry and end at a luxurious local winery. Once a fair amount of truffles have been gathered, Chef Erick Caballero of Caballero’s Catering will cook these nuggets upon an open fire while the guest winemaker pours a variety of wine prefect for the occasion. Just this year the Willamette Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) is celebrating its 40th anniversary so for an extra special treat guests will taste two reds and two whites and learn about the winemaker's story. From pioneering winemakers like Joe Dobbs of the Dobbes Family Estates to emerging stars like David Spector of Bells Up Winery, the guest winemaker will not disappoint.
Book your Bougie Truffle Tromp Experience Today.
For a wilder and off-the-beaten path experience, try the Rustic Truffle Tromp. Expect to venture into more rugged terrain (bring your hiking boots!) to unearth these gems and while there won’t be wine you’ll end your hike with a hearty lunch of soups and sandwiches.
These are group tours so expect to meet some fellow truffle enthusiasts! Groups will be limited to 8-12 guests.
Book the Rustic Truffle Tromp today!
Stefan has been an Oregonian since 1997, when his family moved to the Willamette Valley from Reading, Penn. His parents bought the famed Joel Palmer House in Dayton, owned by head chef and Stefan’s brother, Chris Czarnecki, who hosts a truffle-inspired menu year-round. Guests can opt in for the Mushroom Madness Menu, which is a five-course menu, The Oregon ‘Omakase’ Experience, or the Tête de Cuvée, the most elevated experience. All dishes include a unique use of mushrooms.
From a long family history of hospitality, Stefan loves the work he does serving others and making them feel comfortable.
On Saturday, March 9th, the first annual Taste of Truffle event will be held at the Chehalem Cultural Center. Expect a full day of tastings, vendors, and demonstrations dedicated to all things truffle.
For the true lover of all things truffle (and amazing food and wine) The Allison Inn & Spa is offering two unforgettable weekend experiences which include chef prepared dinners at wineries as well as on-site restaurant JORY, exclusive truffle hunts, two nights at the luxury hotel and spa, and more. These decadent immersions will take place over the weekends of Feb. 9-12 and March 22-25, 2024.
The Dundee Hotel’s “Truffle Retreat” includes a two night stay, a truffle-inspired welcome dinner at Wooden Heart Kitchen, the Truffle Tromp experience and a private intimate truffle dinner with library wines from Dusky Goose.
Hotels and wineries in Newberg, Dundee and surrounding areas in the Willamette Valley offer special rates and packages throughout truffle season. Click on hotels below for full details.
