“Törggelen” a special autumn tradition Chestnuts and wine. “A Köscht, a Glasl” (A chestnut and a glass of wine) is an old autumn motto still present in South Tyrol today.
// Tip Farmers market Every Tuesday local farmers are selling fresh fruit and vegetables, honey, bacon, apple juice, eggs and more on the town hall square (Rathausplatz) in Lana. Information: Tourist Office Lana and Surroundings Via Andreas Hofer 9/1, Lana Tel. +39.0473.56 17 70
As everywhere these days, South Tyrol has restrictions in place with regards to alcohol consumption and traffic. Nonetheless locals still know that chestnuts and wine are ideal companions for each other. This is especially true during the “Törggelen” season in autumn, where the roasted delicacies and a good glass of home-made wine form an integral part of this seasonal custom. “Törggelen” is an ancient tradition born in the South Tyrolean wine producing areas. It goes back to the times, when city dwellers travelled to the traditional wineries in order to “check” the quality of the new vintage. This process started in the cellar room, known as “Torggl”, where the wine press stood (the word stems from the Latin torquere – to press). The word “Törggelen” therefore does not – despite persistent rumours – derive from the German word torkeln – to stagger. Even so, Törggelen becomes an even more special experience when paired with a shorter or longer hike: The art historian Josef Weingartner once said: “Even the way there in the mild afternoon sun has a special appeal. The underpinned vineyard terraces, the sweet chestnuts, the view down to the friendly valley on to the old town or picturesque monastery – all that forms an integral part of the Törggele experience. Even better then is the way home, maybe in the moonlight, when the often whimsical spirits of the wine are playing their games.” // Information: Tourist Office Lana and Surroundings Tel. +39.0473.56 17 70