Törggelen in South Tyrol
When Autumn Comes to the Table
Golden vineyards, the warm scent of roasting chestnuts and a glass of young wine on the table: Törggelen is as much a part of autumn in South Tyrol as glowing forests and crisp, clear days.
Around Klausen and throughout the Eisack Valley, you can experience this centuries-old tradition in the very place where it first began.
From the Vineyard to the Farmhouse Parlour
Törggelen has its roots in the Eisack Valley. Once the grape harvest was over, winegrowers would traditionally invite people to taste the new vintage. The wine was accompanied by simple farmhouse fare – Speck, cheese and chestnuts, with more substantial warm dishes gradually becoming part of the tradition.
Even the name itself tells a story of wine. “Törggelen” derives from the Torggl, the traditional wooden wine press once found in farmhouse cellars. The term, in turn, is linked to the Latin torquere, meaning “to turn” or “to press”.
What Is Served During Törggelen?
A traditional Törggele evening usually begins on a savoury note and ends with something sweet. Exactly what is served varies from farm to farm, but typical dishes in the Eisack Valley include:
- a traditional Marende platter with Speck, Kaminwurzen smoked sausages and cheese
- Schlutzkrapfen or hearty barley soup
- cured pork, sausages, sauerkraut and dumplings
- roasted chestnuts – known locally as Keschtn
- sweet Krapfen pastries to finish
And What Wine Is Served with It?
At the beginning of the Törggelen season, freshly pressed grape must is traditionally served, known in South Tyrol as Siaßer or Siaße. As the season progresses, it gives way to the young wine of the new vintage – the “Nuie”.
There is no particular Törggelen wine or prescribed grape variety. Traditionally, what matters is the newly made wine from the respective farm – a first taste of the year’s vintage.
Törggelen Around the Gnollhof
Few places are better suited to experiencing Törggelen than the Eisack Valley. In autumn, traditional Buschenschänke tucked away among vineyards and chestnut groves open their welcoming farmhouse parlours. And perhaps the most rewarding way to enjoy the tradition is to combine it with a walk through the autumn countryside.
The renowned Keschtnweg, or Chestnut Trail, winds its way through the Eisack Valley’s autumn landscape, passing chestnut trees, traditional farms and vineyards along the way. From the Gnollhof, too, setting off on a Törggele hike is one of the season’s most memorable pleasures.
After a day filled with views of the Dolomites, glowing forests and vineyards, the warmth of a traditional parlour awaits in the evening. Sometimes, that is all it takes to experience autumn in South Tyrol at its very best.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Törggelen
When is Törggelen season in South Tyrol?
Traditionally, Törggelen season runs from the beginning of October until the end of November, once the grape harvest is complete and the young wine is ready to be tasted.
Where does Törggelen originate?
The tradition originated in the Eisack Valley.
What does the word “Törggelen” mean?
The name derives from the Torggl, the traditional wooden wine press once used in farmhouse cellars.
What wine is traditionally served during Törggelen?
Traditionally, freshly pressed grape must is served first, followed later in the season by the young wine of the new vintage.
What do you eat during Törggelen?
Typical dishes include Speck and cheese, Schlutzkrapfen or barley soup, a hearty platter of meat, sausages, sauerkraut and dumplings, followed by roasted chestnuts and sweet Krapfen.
Where can you experience Törggelen near the Gnollhof?
Traditional Buschenschänke throughout the Eisack Valley are the best places to experience an authentic Törggele evening. Our reception team will be delighted to recommend suitable places to stop and enjoy the tradition.
