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 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!
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!
Olá! I’m Luís Lage, owner of Divino.je, and today I’m here to talk about one of my favourite additions to any social gathering - a well-curated cheese board. When it comes to cheese, Portugal offers an incredible variety of flavours and textures that deserve a place on your table. Whether you’re hosting friends for a wine night, planning a cosy evening with family, or looking for a thoughtful gift, Portuguese cheeses add authenticity and indulgence to any occasion.
At Divino.je, we’ve selected three standout Portuguese cheeses that will take your cheese board to the next level. Let’s explore their unique characteristics, pairing suggestions, and how they can elevate your home entertainment game.
Lactovil Flamengo is Portugal’s take on a classic semi-soft cheese, similar in style to Edam. It’s one of the most popular cheeses in the country, known for its smooth, creamy texture and mild flavour.
Lactovil Flamengo has a light, buttery flavour that appeals to a wide range of palates. Its semi-soft texture makes it easy to slice or cube, perfect for a cheese board that’s meant to be shared.
This versatile cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Planalto Reserva. The wine’s citrusy notes complement the cheese’s mild creaminess, creating a balanced flavour profile. Add some Portuguese cured meats and fresh fruit, like grapes or apples, to complete the pairing.
Lactovil Flamengo is a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for entertaining. Its mild flavour ensures it pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, and its creamy texture adds a luxurious touch to any spread.
For those who enjoy a cheese with more character, Lactovil Sheep Cheese is an exceptional choice. Made from sheep’s milk, this cheese comes from the Beira Alta region, known for its high-quality dairy products.
This sheep cheese boasts a rich, slightly tangy flavour with nutty undertones. Its firm yet creamy texture makes it a versatile addition to your cheese board, whether served in slices or cubes.
Lactovil Sheep Cheese pairs wonderfully with a robust red wine, such as the Esporão Reserva Red. The wine’s full-bodied flavour complements the cheese’s depth, creating a harmonious pairing. For an extra indulgent touch, serve with fig jam or honey, which enhance the cheese’s natural sweetness.
This cheese brings a distinctive flavour to your board, standing out among milder options. Its tangy, nutty profile adds variety and complexity, making it a must-have for those who appreciate bold flavours.
If you’re a fan of goat’s cheese, Paiva Queijo Cabra Curado is a standout option. This cured goat’s cheese is a traditional product from the Paiva region, where it’s crafted with care and expertise.
Paiva Queijo Cabra Curado has a firm texture with a slightly crumbly interior. Its flavour is earthy, tangy, and slightly salty, offering a more robust taste compared to younger goat cheeses.
This cheese pairs beautifully with a sweet port wine, such as Borges Tawny Port. The port’s caramelised notes provide a delightful contrast to the cheese’s tanginess. Pair it with toasted almonds or dried figs for a truly Portuguese experience.
Paiva Queijo Cabra Curado adds a unique texture and bold flavour to your selection. Its earthy notes make it a standout choice that pairs wonderfully with both sweet and savoury accompaniments.
Creating a Portuguese-inspired cheese board is simple and rewarding. Here’s how you can bring it all together:
Portuguese cheeses aren’t just delicious - they’re also a thoughtful and unique gift. Pair them with a bottle of wine or include them in a hamper for a present that’s sure to impress. And if you’re hosting, a well-curated cheese board is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, adding elegance and variety to your spread.
At Divino.je, we bring the best of Portugal to your table. Visit our website to shop our range of cheeses, wines, and more, and create a cheese board that will wow your guests or loved ones. Saúde!
Olá! I’m Luís Lage, owner of Divino.je. With Christmas just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to embrace the flavours of Portugal and share them with your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a festive feast, looking for thoughtful gifts or simply want to treat yourself to something special, Divino has everything you need to make this season truly memorable.
From delightful hampers filled with Portuguese food and wine to after-meal tipples and traditional sweet treats, our carefully curated selection brings the best of Portugal straight to your table. Let me guide you through some of our top picks for this Christmas.
There’s nothing quite like receiving a hamper filled with gourmet delights, and at Divino, we’ve put together a selection that showcases the finest Portuguese flavours. These hampers are ideal for gifting or as a centrepiece for your own celebrations.
No Christmas meal is complete without a little something to sip on after dinner. Portuguese brandy and port are iconic choices, offering rich, warming flavours that are perfect for the festive season.
Christmas is a time for indulging in sweet treats, and Portugal offers some delightful desserts, ideal for sharing with family and friends.
These traditional treats are a great way to bring a touch of Portuguese tradition to your Christmas celebrations.
At Divino.je, we believe Christmas is all about coming together to share great food, wine and memories. Whether you’re looking for gifts, hosting a festive meal or simply treating yourself, our selection of Portuguese hampers, drinks and desserts has something for everyone.
This year, bring the authentic flavours of Portugal to your celebrations. Visit Divino.je to explore our full range of products and find the perfect additions to your Christmas table.
Saúde and Feliz Natal!
Boas Festas! I’m Luís Lage, owner of Divino.je. Today I want to talk about a dish that holds a special place in Portuguese culinary tradition - roast suckling pig, or leitão assado.
Whether it’s for a festive Christmas dinner or a comforting Sunday lunch, roast suckling pig is a showstopping dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. Its crispy skin, succulent meat and unforgettable flavour make it a meal to remember - especially when paired with the perfect sides and drinks.
At Divino, we pride ourselves on offering the finest suckling pig, bringing the authentic taste of Portugal to your table. Let me guide you through everything you need to know about this delicacy, from traditional accompaniments to expert cooking tips.
Roast suckling pig is more than just a meal in Portugal - it’s a celebration of tradition and flavour. Found in many regions across the country, particularly Bairrada, suckling pig is slow-roasted to perfection. The result is meat so tender it melts in your mouth and skin so crispy it crackles with every bite!
This dish is often reserved for special occasions, bringing families together around the table to enjoy its irresistible taste. At Divino, our suckling pig is expertly prepared to ensure it delivers the authentic Portuguese experience with minimal effort, whether you're creating new traditions or celebrating long-standing ones.
While the suckling pig is undoubtedly the star of the show, the right side dishes elevate the meal even further. Traditional Portuguese sides perfectly complement the rich, juicy flavour of the meat, offering a balance of textures and tastes that will delight everyone.
These sides complement the suckling pig and make the meal feel complete, ensuring every bite is packed with flavour.
No meal is complete without the right drink, and roast suckling pig pairs perfectly with sparkling wine.
In Portugal, it’s traditional to serve white sparkling wine from Bairrada, particularly those made from the Baga grape. The fine bubbles and crisp acidity of these wines help dissolve the fat of the pig, cleansing the palate and making each bite as good as the last.
While you could pair suckling pig with other wines, there’s something special about sticking to tradition. A well-chilled sparkling wine elevates the meal and creates a special atmosphere, whether you’re celebrating Christmas or enjoying a leisurely Sunday roast.
Cooking a suckling pig may sound daunting, but with Divino’s high-quality products and these simple instructions, it’s easier than you think.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender, juicy meat that makes roast suckling pig so special.
At Divino, we understand the importance of quality when it comes to special meals. That’s why our suckling pig is carefully sourced and prepared to ensure it meets the highest standards.
With its easy preparation and unforgettable taste, Divino’s suckling pig takes the stress out of cooking a spectacular meal. Pair it with traditional sides and a bottle of sparkling wine, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress.
Roast suckling pig isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of Portuguese culinary tradition. Its rich flavours, crispy texture, and versatile accompaniments make it the perfect centrepiece for any festive occasion.
This Christmas, or for your next Sunday lunch, why not bring a taste of Portugal to your home? Visit Divino.je to order your suckling pig and explore our selection of traditional Portuguese products. With Divino, you can create a meal that’s as memorable as the occasion itself!
Saúde!
