Succulent
fruits and vegetables are grown in the fields and gardens of the Merano basin, blessed by a favorable location and sunny mild climate. The area is also known for refined agricultural products. South Tyrolean
cheese and
speck are matured in farmers' cellars. Sparkling wines are made in the highest-altitude sparkling wine cellars in Europe. South Tyrolean sparkling apple wine is produced from juicy Golden Delicious apples, while
wine, grappa, and spirits are made from grapes.
In and around Merano/Meran, farmers offer tasting of regional products for sale at various
farmers’ markets held in urban environments. The Vinschger Bauernladen farmers’ shop in Naturno/Naturns and the PUR Südtirol company in the center of the spa town of
Merano offer healthy and natural products direct from the farm. The Ultner Brot bakery is the premier address for Vinschger Paarl (sourdough bread) and crispy Schüttelbrot bread, which go excellently with the traditional South Tyrolean Marende of speck, cheese, and wine.