Top 7 Best Truffles Ranked by Flavor, Rarity & Pairing

Truffles have long been known as one of the most premium foods of all time. But even within the truffle category, different varieties of this delicacy are known to be tastier than others.

Whether you are new to eating truffles or want to make sure you can taste the best ones, read on to learn all about the best truffles in the world.

The Top 7 Truffles Ranked

1. White Alba

There is a debate, with some truffle connoisseurs preferring the Black Périgord truffle to the White Alba Truffle, but we feel the price does not lie. White Alba truffles are some of the most sought-after truffles in the world, and for a good reason—as they have long been considered to be the best-tasting truffles ever.

White Alba truffles are grown in Italy during the months of October and December, and even then, they are considered quite rare. They are known for their incredibly rich flavor which is described as earthy, with hints of onion and garlic. 

Named for their pale white color, these truffles can sometimes have brown exteriors, though their inside is always a creamy light brown color. They go best with meats like beef and chicken, but can also be paired with a strong aged cheese.

2. Black Melanosporum (Black Périgord Truffle)

Black Melanosporum truffles are found in the Périgord region of France and are known around the world for their delicious flavor. Often battling the white Alba truffle for position one in the rankings, the fact that these truffles are more common (and therefore less rare) is honestly why they often end up in second place. 

Black Melanosporum truffles have a longer harvest season than white truffles, and they can be found from autumn until well into winter. These truffles have an unusual shape, with a dark interior that contains veins of white. 

These truffles are known for their distinctively sweet flavor, which also has musky undertones. They are best paired with poultry and game meats. 

3. Black Tuber Uncinatum (Black Burgundy Truffle)

An easy third choice in the truffle rankings is the Black Burgundy Truffle, also called the Tuber Uncinatum, which is harvested in the autumn. 

The Black Burgundy Truffle is easy to pick out of a bowl of truffles because of its unique bumpy exterior. The surface is dark, with small crystals seeming to grow from it. Once cut open, the interior is pale gray with white veins throughout. 

These truffles have a distinct woodsy flavor that can often have notes of garlic and hazelnuts. Because of their somewhat more delicate flavor, they are best shaved over a pasta using a truffle slicer, to help add depth to the dish. 

4. Tartufo di Bagnoli

Fourth on our list is the Tartufo di Bagnoli, which is harvested during the fall and winter seasons. With an exterior that is similar to the Black Burgundy Truffle, what sets this type apart is its somewhat unpleasant smell. 

Pair this with a slightly bitter aftertaste, and it is easy to see why Tartufo isn’t higher on the list. That being said, some dishes need a little flavor balancing and the Bagnoli truffle is happy to help. Just ensure it is grated over the dish and only used in small quantities. We recommend serving it with sweet pastas, or pizza. 

5. Tartufo di San Miniato

Truffles from the San Miniato region in Italy were once called “king’s food” not only because of their white appearance but also because of their delicious flavor. 

Tartufo di San Miniato have a strong flavor that is often compared to fermented cheese, making them an excellent addition to pasta dishes as well as a common topping for beef dishes like carpaccio. 

These truffles are also known for their strong scent, making them an easy truffle to stretch, as a little will go a long way! 

6. Aragon Black Truffle

In sixth place, we have the Aragon Black Truffle, which is a Spanish truffle harvested during the winter months. Aragon Black Truffles are also one of the most common truffles in the world, and if you have eaten black truffle before, there is a huge chance it was an Aragon Black Truffle.

Known for their diversity and mild flavor, Aragon Black truffles pair best with dishes that aren’t too overpowering, such as salads and pasta.

7. White Spring Truffle (Tuber Borchii Vitt)

The White Spring Truffle is similar to the White Alba truffle, except that it is harvested in the spring and not the winter. While it may look like its truffle cousin on the outside, it’s important to note that they look very different on the inside—carrying a distinct reddish brown tint. 

The White Spring Truffle might smell just as delicious as the White Alba truffle, but their flavors are nothing alike. The White Spring Truffle is known for not being the most pleasant, though it does have a taste similar to garlic. For this reason, we only recommend this truffle be paired with pastas that can benefit from an additional garlic flavor, even if they are a bit bitter. 

Which Type of Truffle Should You Choose?

When shopping for truffles, you generally get what you pay for, meaning the more expensive truffles will almost always taste better than the cheap ones. That being said, not all truffles are available year-round.

We recommend that when choosing truffles, you pick a type that is currently in season, and if there are multiple in season, choose the most expensive one you can afford. This will ensure you get the most quality possible and have an amazing truffle experience.

Where to Buy Truffles?

Truffles generally aren’t available at your neighborhood grocery store. But with an online premium grocery store like Kolikof Caviar and Gourmet, you can get the best truffles delivered directly to your door!

With a wide range of truffles, truffle oils, and other truffle products, you can’t go wrong when you shop at Kolikof’s. Order today, and you’ll be enjoying premium truffles in no time!