Celebrate again the coming of the long season of light, Summer Solstice (June 21st). Need we tell you of ancient, timeless customs that recognized the magic of those long, gentle summer days and especially short summer nights? Or do you instinctively know the un-nameable, but irresistible pull to wander outdoors and stare into the starlit sky with your lover at your side? We do. Bring some Intrigue Truffles along to enjoy the shortest night of the year.
NEW! Tarragon Truffle – Considered one of the “four fine herbs” of French cuisine, tarragon is understood in its role as a flavoring for eggs, fish and chicken. Its significantly less recognized as an excellent addition to dark chocolate. Decide for yourself what you think of this new truffle flavor. Tarragon is aromatically similar to anise, and presents itself beautifully through the chocolate.
NEW! Toasted Sesame Truffle – On the upper regions of the Tigris River, centuries ago, Assyrians told a legend that held the sesame seed in great honor. According to their seers, at the time the gods convened to create the world, they quaffed wine made from sesame seeds. And let us not forget Ali Baba’s magic words; “Open, Sesame!”.
Hibiscus Truffle – Made with the dried petals of the hibiscus flower, this truffle emanates a bright and tart, fruity flavor. The flower itself is a startling red, and when made into a tea is found to be a health additive. Hibiscus is fortifying for the immune system since it is high in Vitamin C. It always appears that it may lower blood pressure and have beneficial effects on cholesterol levels.
Smokin’ Scotch Truffle – You already know that Scotch is whisky made in Scotland, but we like to say it again, because it’s cool! To be true scotch, it must be oak barrel aged for a least three years. Since scotch is usually blended, the year of age listed on a bottle must be of the youngest whisky used in that particular blend. Older is better? We love that sentiment!
Coriander the Great Truffle – “Coriandrum sativum” is the name for the whole plant, from its leaves (cilantro), to its seeds (coriander). Blessed with two common names, this plant evokes strong feelings about its aroma and flavor. Popular in Caribbean and Asian cooking, coriander has a pungent smell, and a citrusy tang.
Orange-Rosemary Truffle – Native to the Mediterranean region, rosemary is a perennial herb with fragrant, needle-shaped leaves like an evergreen. It lends itself well to the citrus flavor of the orange, an ancient cultivated hybrid. Today’s orange traces its roots most likely to a cross between the pomelo and the mandarin.
Clove Truffle – Cloves grow on trees that are in the evergreen family, but have large, shiny leaves. It’s not surprising that this frangrant herb is often used in the making of perfumes, it’s smell is so intense and heavenly. Also a critical component for incense in Japanese and Chinese cultures. We love what it does in chocolate.
Awesome Assam Truffle – Assam tea comes from the Assam region of India, where it grows near sea level. Full-bodied and brisk, this tea is known for its malty flavor and bright color. It is bold enough to be noticed through the dark richness of this truffle.
Bourbon Truffle – An American whiskey, Bourbon is a distilled primarily from corn. Barrel-aged, it is named from its geographical association with the Old Bourbon area of Kentucky. Produced first around the 18th century, tradition has kept this char-barrel spirit alive and well.
Jamaican HOT Chocolate Truffle – Dark rum, nutmeg, honey,vanilla, and habanero chilis flavor this cornerstone truffle. An integral ingredient in Yucatecan food, habanero chilies are used in solid or puree form in many dishes. It’s not just about the heat, but is made all the more amazing by its floral aroma, and citrus-fruity flavor.
Saint Basil Truffle – As always, we use fresh, organic Basil in our hallmark truffle. The botanical name for basil is “ocimum”, derived from a Greek verb meaning “to be fragrant”. And isn’t it ever?
Red Wine Truffle – Using Paradisos del Sol 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, from the heart of Washington’s Yakima Valley. Each individual wine’s red hue is dependent on the type of grape and how long the grape skin pigment is in contact with the liquid during processing. A small, family-owned and run vineyard takes the time to eat their grapes and find out what kind of wine they want to become. A perfect wine-chocolate pairing!
Whether your Summer Solstice celebration includes a crowd of friends, or just the two of you, take the time to mark the longest day. And bring some Intrigue truffles along to enjoy the shortest night of the year.
