The gastronomic capital of Piedmont, the small medieval town of Alba, is abuzz in November. Already with an enviable reputation for Europe’s best hazelnuts (think Nutella and Ferrero Rocher chocolates), it is truffle season in the region and the annual Alba truffle festival is in full swing.

Well-heeled gourmands jostle with more ordinary visitors to savour shavings of the famously pricey white and black tuber-shaped fungus. It’s a great chance for the local wine producers and high-end restaurants to show off their wares. Our party of journalists flown in from as far afield as the United States and Canada are treated to some of the finest.