Blog

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.

Set the Scene: Rustic, Relaxed and Full of Charm

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:

• Table Style: Opt for wooden boards, ceramic platters, and linen napkins in ocean blues, lemon yellows and terracotta tones.
  
• Lighting: String up fairy lights or hang lanterns for a warm, inviting glow as the sun sets.
  
• Floral Touches: Add sprigs of rosemary or bunches of lavender in jars or vases to give your table that Mediterranean charm.
  

A little effort goes a long way in creating a setting that feels welcoming, authentic and effortlessly stylish.

Portuguese Nibbles to Kick Things Off

Start your party with a selection of Portuguese petiscos – our version of tapas. These small plates are perfect for sharing and grazing.

• Cured Meats: A platter of Portuguese chouriço, presunto and salpicão is a must. Serve sliced thin with a drizzle of olive oil and a few black olives

View cured meats and olives ›

• Cheese & Fruit: Add wedges of Queijo Flamengo - a tangy sheep’s cheese from Beira Alta - and a crumbly goat’s cheese like Paiva Queijo Cabra Curado. Pair with grapes, figs or honey for a sweet contrast.

View cheeses ›

• Crackers and Bread: Keep things simple with crusty sourdough, breadsticks or seeded crackers for scooping and snacking.
  
  

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!

Drinks That Set the Mood

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.

Portuguese Beers

Refreshing, crisp and made for summer. Stock up on Sagres or Super Bock for easy-drinking beers that everyone will love.

Wine Bundles for All Tastes

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:

• Monte Mayor White - light, citrusy and ideal with grilled fish or salads.
  
• Planalto Reserva White - floral and fresh with a mineral finish, perfect for sipping as the sun goes down.
  
• Esporão Reserva Red - a bold red for heartier dishes or sunset toasts.
  
• Borges Tawny Port - serve lightly chilled in small glasses with dessert or cheese.
  

Mains That Make Memories

For your main course, simplicity is key. Let the ingredients shine.

• Grilled Sardines: A Portuguese summer classic. Marinate the sardines in olive oil, garlic and lemon juice, then grill until crispy.
  
• Piri-Piri Chicken: Juicy and spicy, this barbecue favourite is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve the chicken with a fresh tomato salad and crusty bread.
  
• Suckling Pig Rolls: For something show-stopping yet easy to serve, roast suckling pig is a fantastic choice. Slice and stuff into fresh bread rolls with pickled vegetables for a fuss-free main with maximum flavour.
  

Sweet, Simple Finishes

End on a sweet note with traditional Portuguese treats that don’t require hours in the kitchen.

• Pastéis de Nata: Serve warm with a dusting of cinnamon.
• Figs with Walnuts: Our Figo Recheado com Noz are a fuss-free way to impress. Try with either fresh or dried figs.
• Pão de Ló: A light, airy sponge that pairs beautifully with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey.
  
  

Ready to Host Like a Pro?

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.

Why Aperitifs Matter

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.

Sparkling Elegance: The Perfect Summer Aperitif

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.

Must-Try Sparkling Wines

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.

Fortified Wines: Complex, Elegant and Unmistakably Portuguese

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.

Must-Try Fortified Wines

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:

• Dried fruits
• Roasted or salted nuts 
• Aged cheese

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:

• Blue cheese
• Dried figs
• Lightly salted almonds

Hosting tip: Tawny Ports and Moscatel can be served slightly chilled to enhance their complexity, especially in warmer weather.

Portuguese Snacks: The Essential Pairings

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.

Savoury & Addictive

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

For a More Substantial Bite

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.

Bringing It All Together: Hosting the Ultimate Portuguese Aperitif Hour

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.

Quick Perfect Pairing Guide:

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 "Queijaria das Pousadas"

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.

Flavour and Texture

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.

Pairing Suggestions

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.

Why It’s Perfect for Your Cheese Board

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.

Lactovil Sheep Cheese "Pastor da Beira Alta"

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.

Flavour and Texture

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.

Pairing Suggestions

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.

Why It’s Perfect for Your Cheese Board

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.

Paiva Queijo Cabra Curado

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.

Flavour and Texture

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.

Pairing Suggestions

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.

Why It’s Perfect for Your Cheese Board

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.

How to Build the Perfect Portuguese Cheese Board

Creating a Portuguese-inspired cheese board is simple and rewarding. Here’s how you can bring it all together:

1. Choose a Variety of Cheeses
   Start with our featured selections - Lactovil Flamengo for its creamy texture, Lactovil Sheep Cheese for a rich, tangy flavour, and Paiva Queijo Cabra Curado for an earthy, bold option.
2. Add Complementary Accompaniments
   Pair your cheeses with traditional Portuguese cured meats, crusty bread, and fresh or dried fruit. For sweetness, include fig jam or honey.
3. Select the Right Wines
   Offer a mix of wines to suit different tastes. Crisp whites like Planalto Reserva, bold reds like Esporão Reserva, and sweet ports like Borges Tawny Port ensure there’s something for everyone.
4. Presentation Matters
   Arrange your cheeses on a wooden board or platter, separating stronger cheeses from milder ones. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a festive touch.

The Perfect Gift or Social Gathering Essential

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.

Great Selection of Food & Wine Hampers

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.

• Taste of Portugal Hamper - Packed with Portuguese treats, this Christmas hamper includes premium wines, savoury snacks and traditional sweets. It’s a wonderful way to share the season with family, friends, or colleagues.
  
  
• Authentic Meats and Wine Hamper - For those who love bold, savoury flavours, this hamper combines some of the tastiest Portuguese cured meats with a rich bottle of Borba Reserve Cork wine. It’s a gift that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Portugal, ideal for food lovers and festive feasts.
  
  
• Love in the Box Christmas Hamper - This hamper is perfect for sharing the love with family and friends during the festive season. Filled with a selection of Portuguese savoury and indulgent treats, it will create warm, joyful moments together around the Christmas table or by the fire.
  
  
• Discovery Meat, cheese & wine hamper - Pairing handpicked Portuguese wines with premium cheeses and meats, this bundle is a treat for the taste buds. It’s an excellent choice for entertaining guests or as a luxurious gift for anyone who appreciates fine flavours.

After-Meal Tipples

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.

• Aguardente Vinica Borba 40 Years - This 40-year-old Portuguese brandy is a masterpiece. Its soft-tasting profile and unctuous texture oozes luxury and elegance, making it a beautiful gift for any brandy enthusiast. Something truly special to share and sip after Christmas dinner!
  
  
• Aguardente CRF Reserva Extra - A classic Portuguese brandy with a rich history, this CRF Reserva offers a bold and warming experience. Aged for over 30 years, it has a rich and aromatic aroma and an exquisite taste; a favourite for enjoying by the fire or gifting to a connoisseur.
  
  
• Borges Tawny Port Decanter - Tawny Port and after dinner treats are a perfect match. With its nutty, caramelised flavours and velvety texture, this Borges Tawny presented in its own decanter pairs beautifully with dessert, or can be enjoyed on its own.

Traditional Portuguese Treats

Christmas is a time for indulging in sweet treats, and Portugal offers some delightful desserts, ideal for sharing with family and friends.

• Sonhos de Natal - Literally translating to "Christmas dreams," these sweet fried puffs are a festive favourite in Portugal. Lightly coated in sugar and cinnamon, they’re a must-have for any Christmas dessert table.
  
  
• Pão de Ló Tradicional - This rich, fluffy and delicate sponge cake makes for a brilliantly versatile dessert whether served with cream and fruit, strong cheese or simply plain. It’s a classic choice that embodies the warmth of Portuguese hospitality.
  
  
• Figo Recheado com Noz - Stuffed figs with walnuts are a truly special treat, combining the natural sweetness of dried fruit with the crunch of nuts. They’re great as an after-dinner nibble or as part of a festive snack platter.

These traditional treats are a great way to bring a touch of Portuguese tradition to your Christmas celebrations.

A Portuguese Christmas with Divino

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.

A Tradition of Flavour

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.

The Perfect Accompaniments

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.

• Roast Potatoes
  Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside and infused with the juices of the pig, roast potatoes are a must-have side. The delicious flavours of the pig seep into the potatoes, creating a taste sensation that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
• Braised Cabbage
  Braised cabbage adds a contrasting freshness to the meal. Its slightly bitter flavour and tender texture provide the perfect balance to the richness of the suckling pig.
• Sliced Orange
  For a citrusy twist, don’t forget the classic addition of sliced orange. The fresh, zesty notes cut through the fattiness of the meat, adding a refreshing touch. The combination of sweet and savoury is a true delight for the palate!

These sides complement the suckling pig and make the meal feel complete, ensuring every bite is packed with flavour.

The Perfect Pairing: Sparkling Wine

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 Instructions

Cooking a suckling pig may sound daunting, but with Divino’s high-quality products and these simple instructions, it’s easier than you think.

1. Thaw Completely
   Make sure the suckling pig is fully thawed before cooking.
2. Preheat Your Oven
   Set your oven to 280°C, or as hot as your oven will go, and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.
3. Heat the Piglet
   Place the suckling pig in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature is 63°C
4. Serve with Care
   Once the pig is ready, cut it into pieces and arrange them on a platter with the crispy skin facing up. Avoid overlapping the pieces to keep the skin crunchy.

By following these steps, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender, juicy meat that makes roast suckling pig so special.

Why Choose Divino for Your Suckling Pig?

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.

A Festive Centrepiece

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!