Press tour at Artifex

The South Tyrol region, with its verdant valleys, imposing mountains, and rich gastronomic tradition, represents one of the most precious gems in the Italian culinary and cultural landscape. In this context, Artifex hosted two special days dedicated to the beauty and flavours of this enchanting region. During this exclusive event, Chef Tina Marcelli and her team presented the new tasting menu, named “Autumn Warmth,” which celebrates the season with dishes inspired by local products and regional traditions. The experience was enriched by visits to local producers and tastings that allowed participants to fully immerse themselves in the gastronomic culture of South Tyrol.

A Context of Gastronomic and Natural Excellence

South Tyrol, a region located in northern Italy on the border with Austria, is known for its extraordinary natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This land, which combines alpine and Mediterranean influences, offers a varied landscape ranging from the peaks of the Dolomites to the meandering rivers and lakes. South Tyrolean cuisine reflects this diversity, characterized by dishes that use high-quality local ingredients and are prepared according to traditional recipes but with an innovative touch that enhances their flavours.

The Landscape and Climate

The climate of South Tyrol is ideal for producing high-quality agricultural products. The short, intense summer and the cool, sunny autumn promote optimal crop growth and perfect ripening of fruits and herbs. The valleys and hills are covered with vineyards and orchards, while local farms raise animals for cheese and cured meat production. This combination of natural factors contributes to a rich and varied cuisine.

Traditions and Gastronomic Culture

South Tyrolean cuisine is a fascinating blend of Italian and German traditions, reflected in the region’s typical dishes and products. Alpine influences manifest in rustic and hearty preparations like canederli and speck, while the Mediterranean heritage is expressed through the use of fresh herbs and high-quality ingredients. Culinary traditions are celebrated through local festivals, markets, and restaurants that offer a wide variety of typical dishes.

Artifex’s “Autumn Warmth” Tasting Menu

Chef Tina Marcelli, known for her ability to blend creativity and tradition, designed a special tasting menu to celebrate autumn and its flavours. The menu, titled “Autumn Warmth,” reflects the season with dishes that highlight local products and offer a unique sensory experience.

The Idea Behind “Autumn Warmth”

The concept of “Autumn Warmth” is based on creating a gastronomic experience that captures the essence of the season. Each dish is designed to evoke the warmth and richness of autumnal flavours, using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Chef Marcelli carefully selected each ingredient to ensure that the menu was not only delicious but also representative of the region.

The Menu and Gastronomic Experiences

The tasting menu includes a selection of appetizers, first courses, main courses, and desserts, all prepared with local and seasonal ingredients. Guests can expect dishes that combine modern culinary techniques with traditional recipes, offering a contemporary interpretation of South Tyrolean cuisine. Each course is accompanied by a detailed explanation of the ingredients and their origins, enriching the gastronomic experience and providing cultural context.

Visit to the Genussbunker by Hubert Stockner

One of the highlights of our journey was the visit to the Genussbunker, a renowned cheese production facility located in South Tyrol. Founded by Hubert Stockner, a master cheesemaker with extensive experience, the Genussbunker is known for its excellence in producing fine cheeses.

Hubert Stockner’s Role in the Cheese World

Hubert Stockner is a renowned expert in cheesemaking, with a career dedicated to creating high-quality cheeses. The Genussbunker is the result of his passion and dedication to the art of cheesemaking. Stockner has developed innovative production methods that respect local traditions, creating cheeses appreciated for their complexity and distinctive flavour.

Cheese Tasting

During the visit to the Genussbunker, we had the opportunity to participate in a tasting of local cheeses, personally guided by Hubert Stockner. The tasting included a selection of artisanal cheeses, each representing a particular expression of South Tyrol’s cheesemaking traditions. Stockner explained the production process, the characteristics of the different cheeses, and the best ways to pair them with other local products and wines.

Immersion in the Heart of the Aurina Valley: The Kleinstahlhof Dairy

The following day, our journey took us to the heart of the Aurina Valley, a region known for its natural beauty and goat cheese production. The visit to the Kleinstahlhof dairy offered a fascinating overview of artisanal cheese production and life on a traditional farm.

The History of the Farm and Cheese Production

The Kleinstahlhof dairy is deeply rooted in South Tyrol’s cheesemaking tradition. The history of the farm is linked to generations of producers who have devoted their lives to caring for animals and producing high-quality cheeses. The visit to the dairy provided insight into daily life on the farm, the techniques of goat cheese production, and sustainable farming practices.

Tasting and Learning

During the visit to Kleinstahlhof, we had the opportunity to taste various types of goat cheese, prepared with traditional methods and fresh ingredients. Each cheese was accompanied by a detailed explanation of the production process and the unique characteristics of the product. The experience offered a deeper understanding of the quality and craftsmanship that distinguish South Tyrol’s goat cheese.

Tasting at the GustAhr Craft Brewery

To conclude our journey, we visited the GustAhr Craft Brewery, a respected name in the South Tyrolean craft beer scene. The brewery is known for producing high-quality beers that pair perfectly with local cuisine.

The Philosophy of GustAhr Brewery

GustAhr Brewery stands out for its attention to quality and tradition. Beers produced are made using selected ingredients and artisanal methods that ensure a distinctive and high-quality final product. The brewery’s philosophy is to create beers that enhance local flavours and complement South Tyrolean dishes.

During our visit, we participated in a tasting of craft beers, with the opportunity to explore the different variants offered by the brewery.