In Portugal, we take time to enjoy the small things. Before dinner, we often gather with friends or family to share a drink and a few small bites. We call this aperitivo hour. It’s not a full meal, but it sets the tone for the evening, relaxed, social and full of good flavour.
You don’t need much to enjoy aperitivo the Portuguese way. A bottle of white port, a few simple snacks and some good company is enough. At Divino, we’ve put together a collection of items that help you create your own version of this tradition at home.
Whether you're planning a quiet evening, hosting guests or looking for gift ideas, here’s how to build the perfect Portuguese aperitivo board.
Aperitivo begins with a drink. In Portugal, this could be sparkling wine, light white wine or something a little different like white port.
This is a sweet but fresh port, perfect served chilled over ice. You can also mix it with tonic water for a light, crisp drink with a twist of lemon peel or orange.
For a bigger gathering, one bottle serves 4 to 6 people with ice and mixer. It pairs well with salty snacks, soft cheese and fruit.
Cured meats are a popular part of aperitivo in Portugal. You don’t need a full plate, just a few slices arranged simply.
Three meats are enough for a group of 4 to 6 people. Keep them simple, no sauces are needed.
Soft Portuguese cheeses pair very well with white port or light wines. Choose 1 or 2, cut into small wedges or served whole with a spoon.
Cheese is best served with bread or crackers. A small drizzle of olive oil or some fig jam also works well.
No Portuguese table is complete without olives. They add salt, texture and colour to your board.
One jar is enough for 4 people. Serve in a small bowl with a fork or toothpicks.
If you want to end your aperitivo on a sweet note, try pairing your port with fruit or a small dessert.
Pão de Ló Tradicional (Portuguese Sponge Cake)
Soft, light and slightly creamy, this cake is a classic in Portuguese homes. Cut into slices and serve with a chilled glass of port.
Fresh figs, grapes or orange segments also work well.
Aperitivo should feel informal, but a little care in how you serve it makes a difference:
You don’t need a big table or formal setup. A few well-chosen products and relaxed music set the tone.
Portuguese aperitivo is not about speed or excess. It’s about slowing down, enjoying a drink and sharing simple food in good company. You don’t need a full menu or complicated recipes. Just good quality ingredients and time to enjoy them.
At Divino, we bring the best of Portugal to your table. Whether you’re hosting or gifting, our snacks, wines and sharing boards help you enjoy the small moments that matter.
Browse our full range of aperitivo essentials at Divino.je
Saúde!
Olá! Luís here again.
If there’s one thing Portugal does better than most, it’s seafood. From the grilled sardines of Lisbon to the octopus salads of the Algarve, our coastline has inspired centuries of dishes made for sharing.
Whether you’re hosting a summer lunch with friends or planning a family get-together, a Portuguese seafood feast really brings people together.
At Divino, we’ve made it easy to recreate the flavours of Portugal at home with cured fish, quality olive oils and crisp white wines that complete the experience. Here’s your guide to putting together an unforgettable seafood celebration, the Portuguese way.
A true Portuguese seafood spread is built to share. It’s not about one big main course, it’s about variety.. You can start small or go all out depending on the occasion. Here are a few must-have categories to guide your table.
Cured and preserved fish are part of everyday life in Portugal, served with crusty bread, olives and good wine. At Divino, we stock a carefully curated range of traditional fish products that make beautiful openers to your spread.
Pair these with a drizzle of high-quality Portuguese olive oil and a scattering of chopped fresh herbs for instant elevation.
Nothing says coastal celebration quite like grilling seafood outdoors. Whether it’s for a relaxed garden lunch or a team-building barbecue, grilled fish delivers both drama and deliciousness.
Pro tip: Brush seafood with olive oil and season generously with sea salt before it hits the grill. Keep it simple to let the freshness shine.
Seafood loves freshness, so keep your sides light and colourful. Here are a few Portuguese-inspired ideas:
Don’t forget the bread! Crusty rolls or slices of sourdough for mopping up olive oil and sauces.
No seafood feast is complete without crisp white wine. Portugal produces some of the most food-friendly whites in Europe, especially from the Douro and Alentejo regions. We’ve picked a few favourites that pair perfectly with seafood.
Planalto Reserva White
A refined white from the Douro, Planalto brings delicate floral aromas, ripe stone fruit and a mineral finish. Its elegance balances everything from octopus to grilled prawns.
Quinta da Pacheca Moscatel Galego White
Made with the Moscatel Galego Branco grape, this Douro white is aromatic and soft with hints of wildflowers, citrus and honeyed aroma. A great match for lighter fish or cold appetisers.
Monte Mayor White
From Alentejo, this crisp and citrusy wine adds lift to richer seafood dishes. It’s perfect for casual gatherings and easy drinking all afternoon.
Serve all whites well chilled and keep a few ice buckets on hand to keep bottles picnic-ready.
Presentation plays a big role in Portuguese hospitality. Here’s how to style your seafood spread for maximum impact:
Whether you’re dining indoors or out, a few thoughtful touches can transform your meal into a mini holiday.
With Divino’s range of traditional seafood products, award-winning wines and quality olive oils, you can bring the soul of Portugal to your table — effortlessly.
Ready to serve up something special? Explore our full seafood and wine range online and create your own taste of the coast.
Saúde!
Olá! I’m Luís Lage, owner of Divino.je. BBQ season is already well underway and if you’re ready to take your grilling game to the next level, this guide will inspire you with Portuguese flavours that go far beyond the usual burgers and sausages.
If you’re looking to bring bold flavour to your summer cookouts, a Portuguese-style BBQ is the perfect way to impress your guests.
At Divino, we’ve curated a range of traditional Portuguese meats, marinades and wines that make it easy to host a sizzling alfresco feast. From juicy black pork ribs to spicy sausages and vibrant piri-piri sauces, here’s how to give your BBQ a flavourful upgrade — the Portuguese way.
When it comes to summer BBQs, the key is choosing ingredients that pack flavour, hold up to high heat and bring a little wow factor to your table. From sizzling prawns to juicy beef and generous pork ribs, these Divino picks are made for serious grilling.
With their sweet flavour and beautiful pink colour, they’re perfect for quick barbecuing – just a few minutes on each side over high heat and they’re ready to serve.
Portuguese grilling often begins with a good marinade. Bold, garlicky and made to enhance the natural flavour of the meat. Here are three easy ideas using ingredients you’ll find in your cupboard or at Divino.
Suitable amount for 1 full rack (around 6–8 ribs) or roughly 4–5 medium-sized pork chops.
Mix into a thick paste and rub into pork ribs or secreto. Marinate for at least 1 hour before grilling.
Suitable for 6 to 8 chicken thighs or 12 to 16 chicken wings.
Combine the ingredients in bowl with a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the chicken and leave to marinate overnight (remember to cover the bowl!). Grill slowly on a medium heat to keep them juicy.
Brush onto sausages, ribs or wings in the final 5 minutes of grilling to caramelise.
Keep the sides simple but satisfying to let the meats do the talking:
Finish with chilled watermelon or fig jam and cheese for a sweet touch.
When the grill is hot and the sun’s shining, sangria is the perfect match. Fruity, refreshing and ready to pour, these Portuguese sangrias are made for summer BBQs.
A Portuguese BBQ isn’t about complicated recipes. It’s about celebrating good food, good company and the joy of cooking over fire. With a few quality meats, bold sauces and a chilled bottle of wine, you can turn any barbecue into a true festa.
Whether you're hosting a garden lunch, cooking at the beach or simply trying something new this weekend, Divino makes it easy to bring authentic flavour to your grill.
Explore our full BBQ range and fire up something unforgettable. Saúde!
Olá! I’m Luís Lage, owner of Divino.je and as the summer sun warms our days there’s one wine that stands out as the perfect seasonal companion – Vinho Verde.
Light, fresh and full of life, this unique Portuguese wine is tailor made for long lunches, spontaneous garden picnics and sunset sipping with friends.
Often misunderstood, Vinho Verde isn’t a grape or a colour. It’s a style and a region brimming with tradition and character. Let’s explore what makes it so special and why no summer is complete without a bottle of this Portuguese classic.
Vinho Verde, which translates to “green wine,” refers not to the colour but to its youth and vitality. Produced in the verdant northwest of Portugal, this wine is meant to be enjoyed young and chilled. The region is known for its cool rainy climate which helps produce wines with natural acidity and a refreshing profile.
The wine is typically low in alcohol (usually around 9 to 11.5%), lightly effervescent and bursting with citrus, green apple and floral notes.
It’s the kind of wine that instantly makes you feel like you’re on holiday even if you’re just in the back garden.
Vinho Verde ticks every box when it comes to summer drinking
Whether you're firing up the BBQ or simply unwinding after work Vinho Verde is the easygoing bottle that always delivers.
At Divino we’ve curated a refreshing selection of Vinho Verde that highlights the very best the region has to offer. Here are four standouts to enjoy all summer long
A light slightly fizzy white with a lively citrus profile and subtle floral undertones. This is the classic Vinho Verde style perfect as an aperitif or with light summer snacks.
Produced by one of the region’s most respected names this bottle offers fresh aromas of green apple, pear and citrus with a smooth mineral finish. It’s a little more refined, perfect for dinner on the patio.
Perhaps the most famous name in Vinho Verde, Casal Garcia delivers gentle spritz, a fruity freshness and just a hint of sweetness. It’s approachable, lively and great chilled right down.
From the sub region of Monção e Melgaço this is a more structured and fuller bodied Vinho Verde. It’s still fresh, but with riper fruit and floral notes.
To get the most out of your Vinho Verde serve it well chilled – ideally between 6 and 8°C. A cooler bag and a few ice packs will keep it picnic ready all afternoon.
If you're entertaining consider including a bottle in a summer themed hamper alongside some cured meats, cheese and sweet treats. Our Summer wine case has a great selection of Vinho Verdes and Sangrias.
Just add some Jersey sunshine!
Vinho Verde is more than just a seasonal trend. It’s a way to bring a little Portuguese charm into your summertime.
Whether you’re sharing glasses at the beach or toasting with neighbours in the garden it’s a wine that invites connection, relaxation and celebration.
At Divino.je we’re proud to share this regional gem with customers who appreciate flavour, tradition and value.
Explore our Vinho Verde selection online and let your summer sipping take on a fresh new sparkle.
Saúde to the season!
Olá! I’m Luís Lage, owner of Divino.je, and with summer in full swing, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than by heading outdoors with a picnic packed full of flavour.
Whether you’re relaxing at the beach, setting up in a sunny park or enjoying your own garden, a Portuguese-inspired picnic is all about simple pleasures done well - fresh ingredients, bold flavours and great wine.
At Divino, we believe in making every moment special, and our selection of wines, cheeses and cured meats brings the essence of Portugal straight to your picnic basket. So grab a blanket, invite a few friends and let’s explore how to create the ultimate Portuguese-style picnic.
Portugal’s white wines are ideal for warm weather - they’re crisp, aromatic and beautifully balanced. Here are three of our favourite bottles, all available at Divino, that pair perfectly with picnic fare.
A great picnic always includes cheese, and Portugal’s rich dairy heritage offers plenty to enjoy outdoors. At Divino, we’ve handpicked a trio of crowd-pleasing Portuguese cheeses that bring texture, flavour and authenticity to your picnic board.
Tip: For an extra flourish, garnish with herbs or toss in a handful of toasted almonds and figs.
Portuguese cured meats bring bold flavour and tradition to any picnic table. Whether you’re snacking between sips or building open sandwiches, these ready-to-serve options are rich in taste and packed with personality.
Together, these meats offer a true taste of Portuguese heritage, each bite packed with flavour and history. Just add a chilled bottle of wine and some sunshine.
Here’s a simple formula for picnic success:
Keep your picnic kit easy: a wooden board, a small knife, napkins, cleaning wipes, tumblers and a cooler bag. That’s all you need to eat well under the sun.
A Portuguese-style picnic is about sharing good things with good people. With a little help from Divino, you can bring the vibrant flavours of Portugal to any sunny spot. Whether it’s a lazy lunch or a spontaneous evening on the beach, our wines, cheeses and charcuterie make every gathering more memorable.
So go ahead and gather your favourites, raise a glass and toast to summer Portuguese-style!
Visit Divino.je to stock up on your summer picnic essentials and bring a taste of Portugal wherever the season takes you.
Saúde!
Olá! I’m Luís Lage, owner of Divino.je. With longer days and warmer evenings, there’s no better time to gather friends and family for a summer celebration. And if you ask me, there’s nothing quite like a Portuguese-inspired garden party to turn a casual get-together into something truly memorable.
Whether you're planning a relaxed barbecue or a sunset soirée, I’ll show you how to bring the flavours, aromas and spirit of Portugal to your summer table. From easy nibbles to crowd-pleasing drinks, here’s everything you need to host like a pro.
When it comes to Portuguese décor, think rustic elegance with a splash of sunshine. Here are a few simple ideas to create the right ambiance:
A little effort goes a long way in creating a setting that feels welcoming, authentic and effortlessly stylish.
Start your party with a selection of Portuguese petiscos – our version of tapas. These small plates are perfect for sharing and grazing.
View cured meats and olives ›
View cheeses ›
This kind of spread keeps guests happy while you fire up the grill or prep the main course. It is also a great excuse to open the first bottle of wine!
No Portuguese summer party is complete without a fantastic drinks selection. At Divino.je, we’ve handpicked a few favourites that are perfect for sipping outdoors.
Refreshing, crisp and made for summer. Stock up on Sagres or Super Bock for easy-drinking beers that everyone will love.
If you’re serving a crowd, our 'Introduction to Portuguese wine' bundles make things easy. We’ve handpicked cases of bold reds, crisp whites and a combined bundle of both to help you introduce more wine varieties to your guests.
Or alternatively, try these summer winners:
For your main course, simplicity is key. Let the ingredients shine.
End on a sweet note with traditional Portuguese treats that don’t require hours in the kitchen.
From nibbles and wines to meats and sweet treats, everything you need for your Portuguese summer party is just a click away at Divino.je.
Whether you’re planning a last-minute garden gathering or a big celebration, our curated range of hosting essentials makes it easy to impress.
So stock up, set the table and let the flavours of Portugal take centre stage. Saúde!
At Divino, we’re proud to bring the richness of Portuguese winemaking to your doorstep. In this guide, I’ll introduce you to five key wine regions and showcase their standout wines, all of which are available at Divino.je, along with tips on how best to enjoy them.
The Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in the world, and arguably the most iconic in Portugal. Known globally for its Port wines, the Douro has also become a powerhouse for robust, characterful reds.
Nestled in the mountains of central Portugal, Dão is known for producing elegant, refined wines that age well. The granite soil and cooler climate contribute to wines that are complex but never overpowering.
In Portugal’s northwest corner lies the verdant region of Vinho Verde, famous for its fresh, slightly effervescent white wines. These wines are youthful, zippy and perfect for warm weather sipping.
Lisboa, stretching along Portugal’s west coast, benefits from Atlantic breezes and a patchwork of microclimates, producing wines that are both rich and fresh. Known for its variety, the region is home to some of Portugal’s most exciting red blends.
Alentejo is a vast region in the south of Portugal with rolling landscapes and plenty of sunshine – perfect for producing rich, full-bodied wines. Alentejo wines are often smooth and approachable, making them a favourite for everyday drinking.
Portuguese wines are as diverse as the landscapes they come from. Whether you prefer bold reds, crisp whites or indulgent dessert wines, there’s something here to fall in love with. At Divino.je, we handpick wines that reflect the character and soul of each region, making it easy for you to explore Portugal from the comfort of your home.
Visit Divino.je to browse our full range. Whether you’re planning a dinner party, looking for a thoughtful gift or simply stocking up for the weekend, we’re here to help you find the perfect Portuguese bottle.
Saúde!
Olá! I’m Luís Lage, owner of Divino.je, and today, I want to take you on a journey through Portugal’s most delightful aperitifs. Whether you’re preparing a laid-back Easter gathering or hosting an alfresco summer soirée, the key to effortless entertaining lies in the right combination of sparkling wines, fortified classics and moreish snacks.
An aperitif is more than just a drink before dinner - it’s an experience. It sets the tone for the evening, awakens the appetite and brings people together.
In Portugal, we embrace this ritual with crisp sparkling wines, rich fortified drinks like Port and an array of delicious nibbles that capture the essence of Portuguese hospitality.
If you’re looking to elevate your hosting game, let’s explore some must-have Portuguese aperitif selections that will impress your guests.
Nothing says celebration quite like a glass of Portuguese sparkling wine, known locally as Espumante. Portugal’s sparkling wines offer remarkable quality, often rivalling the best from Champagne but at a fraction of the price.
Aliança Baga Reserva Brut - A refined sparkling wine made from Portugal’s signature Baga grape.
This Brut offers crisp acidity with fresh citrus and green apple notes, making it an ideal aperitif to start the evening. Serve chilled and pair with salty snacks like marinated olives or salted almonds.
Fita Azul Passion Rosé - A vibrant and lively rosé sparkling wine that brings fruity aromas of strawberry and raspberry with a refreshing finish.
Perfect for summer evenings, this rosé is best paired with seafood appetisers, soft cheeses, or even a selection of Portuguese cured meats.
Hosting tip: Serve your Espumante well-chilled (around 6-8°C) in flute glasses to preserve its bubbles.
For a richer aperitif option, Portugal’s fortified wines - particularly Port and Madeira - offer indulgent flavours with a balance of sweetness and acidity. These are perfect for sipping before dinner or pairing with bold-flavoured appetisers.
Borges Tawny Port - A classic choice for an aperitif, Tawny Port brings nutty, caramelised notes that complement both sweet and savoury canapés.
Serve it slightly chilled alongside:
Alambre Moscatel Roxo 17.5% - This rare and aromatic Moscatel from Setúbal offers rich floral and honeyed notes with hints of orange peel and spice. Its smooth, velvety texture makes it a fantastic aperitif.
Best served chilled and paired with:
Hosting tip: Tawny Ports and Moscatel can be served slightly chilled to enhance their complexity, especially in warmer weather.
No aperitif is complete without a selection of delicious snacks. Portugal is renowned for its high-quality, simple-yet-flavourful appetisers, many of which are easy to serve and require little preparation.
Portuguese Olives - Briny, herb-infused olives are a staple at any Portuguese gathering. Serve them alongside a glass of sparkling wine for a classic pairing.
View our range of olives
Spiced cheese - A little bit of spice can bring an aromatic twist to traditional flavours. Queijo da Ilha from the Azores or Queijo Serpa from the Beja district are renowned for packing rich, spicy tones. Perfect paired with a glass of Tawny Port or Madeira wine, these cheeses bring a unique and flavourful touch to any aperitif spread.
Dried Figs - A naturally sweet and chewy delight, Portuguese dried figs bring a rich, caramel-like flavour with a hint of earthiness. Their soft texture and natural sweetness make them a perfect contrast to salty aperitifs.
View our dried figs and nuts selection
Mini Bifanas (Pork Sliders) - These small sandwiches made with marinated pork are rich and savoury. They pair particularly well with a chilled glass of Espumante.
Octopus Salad (Salada de Polvo) - A refreshing, lemony seafood appetiser that highlights the bright acidity of Portuguese sparkling wines.
Bacalhau Croquettes - These crispy salted cod fritters are a favourite at Portuguese gatherings and an excellent match for a crisp white Port and tonic.
Hosting tip: Arrange your snacks on a rustic wooden board with some crusty bread, Portuguese cured meats, and a drizzle of olive oil to complete the spread.
A successful aperitif experience is all about balance - light, effervescent drinks with salty and savoury bites that awaken the appetite. Whether you’re setting the table for an Easter brunch or planning a summer evening on the terrace, these Portuguese aperitif selections will impress and delight.
Sparkling Wine → Olives, seafood appetisers, light cheeses
Tawny Port → Hard cheeses, almonds, dried fruits
Madeira Wine → Toasted nuts, aged cheese, croquettes
Mini Bifanas & Croquettes → Dry sparkling wines for a refreshing contrast
At Divino.je, we bring you the best of Portugal’s aperitif culture with a curated selection of sparkling wines, fortified wines and gourmet snacks that make entertaining effortless. Browse our range and let us bring you the vibrant flavours of Portugal for your next gathering.
Saúde!
Explore our aperitif collection at Divino.je and elevate your next celebration with authentic Portuguese flavours!
