The Vinschgau: a treasure trove of regional products
From Palabirne to Paarlbrot
True flavour is shaped by nature and traditional craftsmanship. The Vinschgau climate, with its long hours of sunshine and cool nights, produces exceptional local products. From the sweet Palabirne pear to aromatic mountain herbs and internationally acclaimed alpine cheeses, the variety is impressive.
In the Oberer Vinschgau, once known as the granary of Tyrol, dairies, cereal fields and alpine pasture culture testify to authentic, revitalised agriculture. The Vinschger Paarlbrot, flavoured with fennel and bread clover, is enjoying a comeback, as is heritage grain, now used innovatively in South Tyrol’s first whisky distillery.
Buy farm produce directly from the farm or at local markets. Discover true quality and realise: everything is crafted with a genuine sense of care.
Tastes that are truly good
Palabirne pears
Sweet, healthy and rare: the Vinschger Palabirne is a true gem. Once recommended by apothecaries, it still grows on gnarled, solitary trees in the Oberer Vinschgau.
Its unique flavour comes to the fore in Palabirnbrot, Christmas pastries, or as a refined brandy. Each year, Glurns celebrates this historic pear with the traditional “Palabiratage.”
alpine cheese
Rich in flavour and made the traditional way: Vinschgau Almkäse is a true taste of the mountains.
Produced by hand from raw milk, it matures on the alpine pastures around Reschensee lake into soft or firm varieties. Its distinctive aroma has won multiple awards.
Whisky
PUNI, Italy’s first whisky distillery in the Upper Vinschgau, sets new standards. Combining South Tyrolean grain, pure glacier water, and visionary architecture, it produces a true masterpiece.
The “Italian Malt Whisky” is aged in Bourbon, Sherry or Marsala casks. The result is full of character - as beautiful to behold as it is to taste.
Vinschgau Paarlbrot
Famous both locally and beyond: this aromatic double loaf has been baked since the 13th century at Marienberg abbey.
Rye, caraway, fennel and bread clover make the Vinschger Paarl wholesome and the star of a traditional South Tyrolean Marende snack, accompanied by alpine cheese and speck. The original “Ur-Paarl” can be found in local bakeries around Reschensee lake, such as Backstube Angerer and Bäckerei Schuster.
Farm shops
Enjoy regional specialities straight from the farm. From tasty jams and aromatic alpine cheeses to herbal teas and fine spirits, every product is crafted with care and love. Gain insight into farm life and make your shopping a true experience by talking to the producers.
Seasonal farm tours offer a glimpse of local life throughout the year and showcase their own products. Tastings are, of course, part of the experience - for example at Gamsegghof in Melag or Hofkäserei Englhorn in Schleis.
