Sottocenere Al Tartufo Cheese

Sottocenere al Tartufo is an Italian semi-soft cow’s milk cheese infused with black truffle and aged under a coating of ash and spices. Produced in the Veneto region, it has a smooth, creamy texture with a pale paste dotted with fine flecks of truffle. The flavor is balanced and aromatic, combining milky richness with earthy truffle notes, while the ash rind helps retain moisture and contributes to its supple consistency.

Serve it at room temperature to bring out its full aroma, sliced or cut into wedges for a cheese board. It pairs well with crusty bread, honey, and mild accompaniments that won’t overpower its truffle character. Melt it into risotto or pasta for added depth, or layer into sandwiches for a more elevated take. Its creamy texture also makes it a natural fit for simple, warm dishes where it can soften and coat.

Sottocenere, meaning “under ash,” reflects a traditional aging method once used to preserve cheese. Today, it is crafted with a focus on flavor and texture, combining that heritage technique with the addition of truffle to create a distinctive, widely appreciated specialty. It remains a staple in Italian cheesemaking, valued for its balance of richness and aromatic complexity.

• Pairings: Pinot Noir, Barbera, or Merlot; earthy reds; sparkling wines like Prosecco; truffle-friendly whites like Chardonnay.