Gleneva Truffiere & Cherry Orchards

Owned and run by Patrick “Paddy” and Carolyn Fitzgerald, Gleneva Truffiere & Cherry Orchards is set among the idyllic hills of Mt Canobolas, 10 minutes west of the City of Orange. The Truffiere, established in 2001 was one of the first on the Australian mainland. Today, with more than 12 acres and 3,000 Oak and Hazelnut trees, the rich volcanic basalt soil of the mountain allows for the production

of up to 300kgs of the Périgord truffles (black truffle) annually. Périgord black truffles are characterized by their subtle aroma and earthy flavour, reminiscent of a rich chocolate. Périgord black truffles are one of the more scarce and most desirable truffles available. During the season you can see our ‘Truffle Hunters’ in action. We have ‘Ernie’ a 12 year old Lagotto Romagnolo, a breed specifically bred for truffle hunting. Sadly, Ernie has never quite lived up to the ability of his breed and on most days can be seen sleeping it off on the porch or swimming in the property dam. Our star hunter is ‘Jet’ a 4 year old locally trained “bitser”. Most days Jet can be seen in action with her handler, Paddy. Jet sniffs, scratches and locates while Paddy digs and unearths. The majority of Paddy’s truffles are in high demand and are internationally exported. The Cherry Orchards have been in the family for generations, farmed by Paddy’s father and grandfather before him. Traditionally, for many decades the family grew the older cherry generations such as the ‘Ron’. However due to advances being made in the industry, in 1990 Paddy chose to replace over 12 acres of the Orchards with newer cherry lines. The following lines are now available
- Bing. At their best late in the season, mid‐December to January. They are large and heart‐shaped with dark red skin and firm ruby‐red flesh. The flavour is sweet and slightly rich.
- Lapin. Available late in the season, from mid‐December to January. They are a large heart‐shaped variety, with dark red skin and firm, golden‐red flesh.
- Merchant. Available early in the season. They large heart‐shaped variety with a dark red skin and golden‐red flesh. They are sweetly flavoured.
- Sunbursts. Available mid season. They have a soft flesh with sweet mild cherry flavor
- Sweetheart. A recently developed variety available late in the season. They are a medium sized cherry with bright red skin and mild, sweet flesh. Cherry Season runs from November to January
The Paddy’s cherries are sold domestically and exported internationally

During the season we offer a variety of activities such as, “Truffle Hunting with Paddy and Jet”, “Pick Your Own Farm Experience” and “Harvest to Plate”. If you would like to know more about our Cherries or Truffles please contact us for further details.