Romantik Blog
Törggelen. South Tyrol's most beautiful tradition, among vineyards and chestnut trees.
When autumn bathes the mountains in golden light and the air smells of ripe apples, chestnuts, and wine, one of the most sensual traditions of the year begins in South Tyrol: Törggelen. A celebration of enjoyment, conviviality, and deeply rooted rural culture. It is a ritual of warmth, a retreat to the origins. From early October to late November, cuisine and culture, nature and people, past and present merge into a sensory experience. Whether hiking through the golden vineyards or stopping for refreshments in a rustic tavern, anyone who has experienced Törggelen once will come back again. If only for the feeling that autumn tastes nowhere as delicious as it does in South Tyrol.
Enjoyment between crackling fires and autumn winds.
Between vineyards and chestnut groves, rustic wine taverns and wineries open their doors. Inside, the fire crackles, outside the wind rustles through the colourful trees. It's time for homemade treats: roasted chestnuts, steaming Schlutzkrapfen, crispy Surfleisch, bacon, Kaminwurzen and, of course, the new wine – the “Nuie”.
Where wine pressing became culture. The roots of Törggelen.
The name “Törggelen” derives from the Latin “torquere” – the pressing of grapes. But today it is no longer just about pressing grapes, but about celebrating the harvest, dining together, and enjoying the simple, honest cuisine of South Tyrol. All accompanied by laughter, old folk songs, and sometimes even a spontaneous accordion.
Caldaro al Lago. Törggelen with Mediterranean flair.
If you want to experience Törggelen with a touch of Mediterranean flair, don't miss Kaltern am See. Nestled between vineyards, olive groves, and the sparkling lake, this wine village south of Bolzano exudes a special charm, especially in autumn. The surrounding wine taverns and wineries serve up the best that autumn has to offer. It's especially atmospheric when you stop in after an autumn hike through the vineyards and end the day with a view of the lake.
When Törggelen smells like apples.
While Törggelen is celebrated in the highlands, there is a bustle of activity in the valley: from mid-August to late October, it is apple harvest time in South Tyrol. The orchards glow in rich red, yellow, and green, and the sweet scent of ripe apples fills the crisp autumn air. Picked by hand, the crisp fruits are placed directly into wooden crates. A centuries-old tradition that shapes the landscape and makes South Tyrol one of the largest apple-growing regions in Europe. Walking through the orchards, you can feel that apples are simply part of the autumn experience.
Törggelen in Romantik® Hotels in South Tyrol
If you want to combine Törggelen with a special stay, the family-run Romantik® Hotels in South Tyrol are just the thing for you. Surrounded by vineyards, mountain panoramas, and historic walls, they invite you to enjoy golden autumn days full of pleasure, tranquility, and warmth. Whether with fine dining, in a stylish country house, or with a wellness area—here, autumn becomes an experience for all the senses. Perfect for couples, connoisseurs, and anyone who wants to combine tradition with style.
Hotels in South Tyrol
Italy
FAQ Frequently asked Questions & Answers
Törggelen is an ancient South Tyrolean autumn custom in which the new wine – known as Suser or Nuier – is tasted together with hearty regional specialities. These include bacon, smoked sausages, Schlutzkrapfen (ravioli), Surfleisch (pickled meat) with cabbage, homemade sausages, dumplings and, to finish, roasted chestnuts.
The Törggele season usually begins at the end of September and lasts until early/mid-November. It is a classic autumn tradition that coincides with the grape harvest and chestnut season – ideal for an autumn gourmet vacation.
Traditionally, getörggeln takes place in wine taverns or on farms in South Tyrol's wine regions – especially in the Eisack Valley, around Merano, in Bolzano, and in the Überetsch region. Many offer simple but cozy rooms and homemade specialties – usually in combination with a walk through vineyards and chestnut groves.
The word derives from the Latin torquere (to press) and refers to the wine press. Originally, Törggelen was a rural tradition in which people gathered after the harvest to taste the young wine together. Today, it is a convivial celebration for guests and locals alike.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and at popular wine taverns, as seating is limited and Törggelen is very popular.
Some hosts now also offer vegetarian alternatives, e.g. cheese dumplings, Schlutzkrapfen with herb filling, or pumpkin dishes. Vegan options are still the exception in traditional Törggelen, but they are possible—it is best to ask in advance.
Absolutely! It's almost a must: a long autumn walk through the vineyards, chestnut forests, or along the so-called Keschtnwege (chestnut trails) rounds off the Törggelen experience perfectly—and makes room for the next course.
In addition to new wine (Suser), young red wine, cider, or apple juice from the farm's own production is often served. Many farms also serve fine brandies at the end of the meal.
Yes, the cozy get-together, the good food, and the rural surroundings make Törggelen attractive for families as well. Many farms are child-friendly, with animals, playgrounds, or short hiking trails nearby.
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