Bannockburn vineyard Black Quail, known for its excellent Pinot Noir, is now the southernmost producing Périgord Black truffière in the world.

After 12 years of patience and tending their truffiere owners Rod and Mirani Keillor were rewarded with a crop of 502g of Perigoid Black truffle on Saturday the 10th of July, 2015. This year, there was an even larger crop!

“There is mystery, folklore and science around the factors needed to stimulate fruiting,” said Mr Keillor. “This year the stars were aligned for us. It’s a satisfying and exciting time and is yet another first for the region.”

The Périgoid black truffle, a melanosporum fungus, fruits from June to August about 10cm below ground on the roots of the host tree. In a good example of nature at work, the hazelnut host trees provide the necessary conditions for the truffle to grow and the truffles help the trees.

Truffle hunting dogs Ace and Pluto were used last year at the Black Quail truffière, but left with their tails between their legs. This year they left with their tails wagging after a productive day hunting and digging for truffles.

For Central Otago, the Black Quail truffle and Pinot Noir will provide another arrow in the region’s celebrated food and wine quiver.

Media contact: Rod Keillor, Proprietor, M: 027 436 5556, e: rodk@clear.net.nz

For more information on truffles click here, and on the truffle hunting dog team click here.