38 customs, habits, things #3 habits For example: A drop of the grape before noon. An elegant white wine – usually a Pinot Blanc – at the proper temperature delights the senses and readies the stomach for a hearty lunch. Enjoying a relaxing afternoon, contemplating the gentle rhythms of life in the village, casually observing the habits of the local. You can sit and sip a wine, go hiking, or jump on your bike – all depending upon your mood. Watch and learn how the locals live – what better way for first-time visitors to approach Kaltern. And to understand what they’re saying would be even better. “Easier said than done!” #4 customs For example: You’ll frequently hear the locals using quaint idioms and colorful expressions. Every region has its own accent and local expressions. But our sub-dialect blends Italian words and phrases with delightful German sayings and a soft melody that is distinctive and pleasant. Wherever you find wine, you’ll also find good companionship. Kaltern conducts festivals, celebrates wine, and enjoys music: At concerts, during the Kaltern Pop Festival, the Seespiele Music Festival on the lake, the village festivals, the wine events, and at the markets. You might want to also experience the charming local custom of Törggelen. #5 customs For example: Törggelen. A joyous tradition celebrated in the autumn, when the recently harvested wine has undergone a brief period of fermentation and has just become ready to drink. With a healthy portion of South Tyrolean bacon and smoked meats from local production. With dumplings, select meats, homemade sausages, roasted chestnuts, and delicious pastries. Customs, habits, things: They show how we live, what we dream about, and who we are. And we love sharing our bounty with our guests. | The Alpine and the Mediterranean mix in the everyday life of Kaltern. Especially in the cuisine. We enjoy the traditional Tyrolean Marende snack one day, Italian antipasti the next. And sometimes both at the same time. i Sacred Heart Fire — On Sacred Heart Sunday (the 3rd Sunday after Pentecost), we light fires on our mountain peaks. They are a symbol of the renewal of the Sacred Heart Oath of 1796, when the province of Tyrol – then threatened by Napoleon’s troops – called upon the Sacred Heart of Jesus for protection. The Überetsch architectural style (16th century) — It has placed its stamp upon the appearance of Kaltern. Its chief elements: Parapets, oriel windows, framed doors and arched windows, twin windows with middle columns, arcades, loggias, open stairways, and inner courtyards. Plent — This local delicacy made from maize has been able to assert its proud position in the cuisine of Kaltern – with innovative and modern interpretations of this traditional dish. South Tyrolean Wine Museum — Wine presses, goblets and drinking cups, pitchers and wine barrels, various other tools and equipment, and a demonstration vineyard – come experience the history of wine for Kaltern!
Wine in all its facets permeates the village. Sometimes barely noticeable, sometimes overwhelmingly. It’s a part of our culture, day-to-day traditions, and identity. And yet always looking to the future! 39