Black Cat Truffles: Unearthing Magic in the Central Highlands

Black Cat Truffles on finding a year round delicacy.

In the misty folds of Wattle Flat, just north of Ballarat, lies a 20-acre patch of enchantment known as Black Cat Truffles. It’s not just the rich red volcanic soil or the thousand oak trees that make this place special—it’s the alchemy of nature, patience, and a pair of truffle-sniffing dogs named Winston and Lottie.

Black Cat Truffles

Where: 150 Howards Rd, Wattle Flat VIC

When: Friday, 12pm – 4.30pm, Saturday & Sunday, 9.30am – 5.30pm

Keep up to date with the latest in food and drinks across regional Victoria here.

 

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The Unexpected Summer Surprise

Owners Kristen Simpson and Tom Eadie were stunned when Winston, their Australian shepherd, unearthed a summer truffle in December—a first for Victoria. Until then, their orchard had only yielded winter Perigord truffles. The discovery opened up a new season of flavour and possibility, with chefs praising the summer variety’s lighter, sweeter profile.

From Soil to Plate

Black Cat Truffles supplies high-end restaurants across Victoria and offers a range of truffle-infused products at their Farm Gate Café. Think truffle butter, salt, and even truffle pizza. During the June–August season, guests don gumboots for the Truffle Hunt & Taste Experience, where they forage with the dogs, sip bubbles, and indulge in truffle-laced tastings.

 

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A Venue with Charm

Beyond produce, Black Cat Truffles is a boutique event space. The oak orchard and homestead gardens host weddings, brunches, and intimate gatherings. Their café, with a commercial kitchen and seating for 20, is a hub for culinary exploration and community connection. The venue has just announced they will be offering brunch on Fridays as well as the regular Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30 to 11:00AM.

With the warm weather approaching, there’s no better moment to plan a visit and savour the beauty of the gorgeous Black Cat Truffles gardens, with a cheeky mimosas or two!

 

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A Producer with Personality

With alpacas grazing nearby and a black cat named Kora keeping watch, Black Cat Truffles is more than a farm—it’s a storybook setting where agriculture meets artistry. Kristen and Tom, newcomers to farming, have embraced the challenge with warmth and innovation, turning a truffière into a destination.

Whether you’re chasing the earthy aroma of winter truffles or the delicate brightness of summer ones, Black Cat Truffles offers a taste of something rare: produce with soul, and producers with heart.

To learn more about Black Cat Truffles or to explore their glorious grounds, head here.