Truffles

We hunt truffles with our dog Meg. We mark their location and then monitor the ripening. With a little more time and some help from the cold winter frosts, the truffles will soon be ready to hand harvest . Most of our truffles range in size from 10 -80 grams. Tartufo Nero (Périgord or Black truffles) are exquisite, with subtle, earthy aromas and sweet forest-floor notes. Their exquisite umami flavour and aroma is the essence of deliciousness. Try them with pasta and eggs. Or infuse them in Duck breast ! A signature dish is a traditional Périgord Omelette aux Truffles.

Harvest Season

During January and February, our truffles begin to form and grow. By late May they have begun to ripen. Then the truffle hunting and hand-harvest begins. By early June we are busy delivering top-quality truffles to food markets and restaurants throughout New Zealand.

Ordering and Delivery

Availability is dependant on harvests yields and sizes. Harvests are undertaken several times a week. Truffle Products like our Risotto with Birch Bolete, our truffle salt, truffle slices or chili paste are available all year round.
Contact us by email to order truffles or fresh truffle butter. We offer overnight delivery Monday to Thursday (no rural delivery). Our harvests in Appleby run from late May to mid/late August - depending on the weather.

TRUFFLE SHOP

Shop our River Road Truffle Chili paste.

River Road Truffle Chili paste with roasted cherry tomatoes on the vine, black grapes, slices of toasted bread, and a dollop of soft cheese.

Testimonials

I had the most memorable stay at River Road Retreat in Appleby. From the moment I arrived, Rebecca and Peter made me feel so welcome and at ease. Their kindness and attention to detail went above and beyond, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience. The location is simply stunning—serene, peaceful, and surrounded by breathtaking scenery. It truly felt like a dream waking up here every morning. The breakfast was exceptional—thoughtfully prepared and served with such warmth and care. Every detail throughout my stay felt personal, making it a truly unforgettable experience. For anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in a beautiful setting with the feeling of home, I highly recommend River Road Retreat. Rebecca and Peter’s hospitality and the overall ambiance make this place something truly special. I can’t wait to return!

Laurie Payton
Our stay at this incredible estate was nothing short of wonderful! We were immediately captivated by the tree-lined driveway, which led to a warm welcome letter. Inside the home, we were greeted with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, wine, and a selection of delicious cheeses, bread, and olives. Rebecca and Peter were exceptional hosts, ensuring our mornings were spoiled with outstanding breakfasts—fruit from their garden, homemade granola, and fresh, local ingredients. They also offered fantastic recommendations for activities and restaurants, especially in Blenheim. This place is truly a slice of heaven. Thank you so much❣️

Jamie Kokot
We had an absolutely fantastic experience at River Road Retreat. Everything was perfect from start to finish. The luxurious amenities, especially the kitchen, exceeded our expectations. The interior is both stylish and practical, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The view was breathtaking—wide, open, and stunning. The peaceful tranquility of the place was something we truly appreciated. And to top it all off, the healthy, delicious breakfast was a real highlight. In summary, this retreat feels like a hidden gem, a piece of paradise. We can’t wait to return and extend our stay!

Keith Finley