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Umbrian Figs
In ancient Rome, the fig was said to be sacred to Mars, the god of war. According to legend, the two founders of Rome were born from Mars’ and Rea Silva’s union. They were abandoned in a basket along the shores of the river Tiber, as Rea Silva was a vestal.
Instead of dying, a flood carried them along the river until it deposited them under a fig tree. It is here that a wolf found them and nursed them – an image that is now the symbol of Rome. This was the reason why the fruit was kept in the highest regard in ancient Rome.
A temple was built on the site where legend told that Romulus and Remus were found by the wolf, in order to protect the tree. Great care was taken to ensure there would always be a tree in good health as it was seen as a bad omen if the tree perished.
Black Summer Truffles
Italian Black Summer truffles are available in the summer. The typical harvest period falls between the months of May through August. The truffles are most commonly found in Italy in the Marche region and are also gathered in Roccafluvione, Macerata, and San Gineso.
Italian Black Summer truffles widely vary in size and shape, averaging 2 to 10 centimeters in diameter, and have a rounded, lumpy, and lopsided appearance, molded by stones and other textural components of soil.
Italian Black Summer truffles, considered one of the most widely distributed truffle species found in nearly every European country, are harvested at peak maturity, typically an hour before sunrise.
Italian Black Summer truffles contain a subtle aroma and have a mild, delicate flavor reminiscent of porcini mushrooms mixed with garlic, chocolate, and hazelnut nuances. The mushroom has a very delicate taste and aroma that is very mild when compared to its seasonal cousin, the Black Winter truffle.