If you are planning a holiday in South Tyrol between early October and mid-November, get ready to experience Törggelen, a centuries-old tradition that celebrates the most authentic flavors of autumn. This ancient rural custom is today one of the most beloved food and wine experiences among visitors, a true end-of-harvest ritual that combines nature, conviviality, and genuine taste.
What is Törggelen
The term Törggelen comes from Torggl, the room where the wine press (torculum) for grapes was once located. The tradition was born in winegrowing areas, when farmers and winemakers opened their doors to let friends and merchants taste the new season’s wine.
Today, the invitation is marked by the symbol of the Buschenschank: a small bunch of twigs hanging at the entrance of farm taverns and traditional inns. It is here, in these cozy family-run places, that you can experience the most authentic side of Törggelen.
A banquet of genuine flavors
Once seated, Törggelen offers a feast that warms the soul. The culinary journey begins with Sußer, the sweet, cloudy grape must not yet fermented, followed by the robust new wine (Nuier) of the season.
To pair with the wine, the classic South Tyrolean snack is served: Speck IGP, smoked sausages (Kaminwurzen), mountain cheeses, and fragrant rye bread. Then come the hot dishes of traditional rural cuisine: comforting barley soup, typical dumplings (Canederli), and Schlutzkrapfen (spinach-filled ravioli). The highlight is the Schlachtplatte, a hearty platter of ribs, sausages, and cured meats, accompanied by flavorful sauerkraut.
The experience concludes on a sweet and smoky note with roasted chestnuts (Köstn) and fried, filled Krapfen pastries. In short, Törggelen is the perfect blend of nature, history, and taste, leaving an unforgettable memory of authentic South Tyrol.
Where to enjoy Törggelen
Törggelen thrives in winegrowing and chestnut areas. The most renowned destinations to experience it, typically from early October to mid-November, include the Eisack Valley, considered its birthplace, with towns like Chiusa, Bressanone, and Villandro, as well as the famous Wine Road, and the areas around Bolzano and Merano. Tradition often suggests reaching the farm on foot, perhaps along the scenic Chestnut Trail (Keschtnweg), enjoying the fiery autumn colors before sitting down at the table.
Where to live the Törggelen experience
In addition to farms and traditional taverns, many hotels and accommodations in South Tyrol also offer themed evenings or autumn packages that include Törggelen. Whether it’s a typical dinner organized on-site or a guided excursion to a farmhouse, many structures give you the chance to experience this custom in an authentic and convivial atmosphere, enriching your holiday among the colors and flavors of South Tyrol’s autumn.
