When the leaves begin to turn yellow and the days shorten, the favorite time for the South Tyroleans begins: the season of Törggelen.
This centuries-old tradition is still celebrated today and is seen by the South Tyroleans as a unique expression of conviviality and joy for life.
Originally, following the autumn harvest, the farmers would come together to sample the new wine – and this frequently turned into a festive occasion! Alongside the new wine, a selection of substantial dishes is still offered at Törggelen today, much like before: barley soup, Kaminwurzen and alpine cheese, sauerkraut with dumplings, house-made sausages, smoked meat, Krapfen, and roasted chestnuts.
Interestingly, the term „Törggelen” does not derive, as one might think, from „stumbling home” after drinking wine, but rather from „Torggl”, a grape press. At the Mauerbam-Hof in Naturno, it is possible to visit one of these old Torggl.
Each autumn, Naturno hosts the classic Tyrolean Törggelen evenings. Every Wednesday in October, the traditional Törggelen is celebrated at the fountain in Naturno, with the grand Törggelefest serving as a highlight of the event.