In South Tyrol Törggelen stands for
social gathering, for culinary enjoyment and drinking the first wine of the year. And where could this be better celebrated than in Tesimo-Prissiano, where chestnut groves shape the landscape and
the largest and probably oldest grapevine in the world can be found.
The name Törggelen comes from the Torggl, the great wine press, which in turn received its name from the Latin torquere. This means turning and refers to the process of wine pressing. After the new wine had been pressed and fermented, the winemakers and their helpers arrived at the Torrgl to taste the new wine, the Nuien. Along with the wine hard bread (today well-known Schüttelbrot) and other hearty meals were served, from which the today's Törggelen developed slowly.
The South Tyrolean Törggelen is inextricably linked with the chestnut.
The Chestnut of Tesimo is a special variety whose quality was widely known as early as the 15th century. For centuries, it was considered a staple and was used as flour in many dishes. In the modern kitchen, it is now appreciated again, as it is very nutritious, low in calories and, moreover, still healthy. Whether roasted, milled to a fine flour or cooked - the chestnut is used in many ways in gastronomy and is a highly valued companion of South Tyrolean dishes.
To celebrate the chestnut properly the event series
"Keschtnriggl" was launched more than 20 years ago. Numerous hikes, culinary events, festivals and guided tours give an insight into the cultivation, care, harvest and processing of this special fruit during three weeks in autumn.
Today, golden chestnut groves characterize the autumnal appearance of Tesimo-Prissiano and invite you to
long hikes amidst the idyllic landscape. The
Versoaln vine, the largest and probably oldest vine in the world with its approximately 300m² leafy roof, is also worth a visit.