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!
Olá! I’m Luís Lage, owner of Divino.je, and today I want to introduce you to some of the finest Portuguese wines that deliver exceptional quality without breaking the bank. Portugal has a long-standing reputation for producing world-class wines, and the good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy them. From rich reds to elegant whites, we’ve curated a selection of premium wines available for under £30.
These wines are perfect for everything from a casual dinner to a special occasion, offering both affordability and sophistication. Let’s dive into this collection of Portuguese gems and explore what makes each bottle unique.
Esporão Reserva Red is a flagship wine from the Alentejo region, known for its bold and full-bodied character. Crafted from a blend of indigenous grape varieties, this wine is aged in oak barrels, giving it a rich, complex profile with notes of dark fruit, spices, and a touch of coffee berries and cigars.
This wine pairs perfectly with:
Priced at under £20, it offers the quality of a premium wine at a fraction of the price.
If you’re looking for a red wine that stands out, Pacheca Sousão Reserva is a must-try. Produced in the Douro Valley, this wine is made from the Sousão grape, known for its deep colour and intense flavours.
Expect bold notes of blackcurrant, plum, and a hint of earthiness, balanced by a vibrant acidity that makes it incredibly food-friendly. It pairs beautifully with:
This wine’s unique profile will leave a lasting impression.
The Reserva do Comendador is a luxurious red from the Alentejo region, offering a perfect balance of fruit, tannins, and oak. This wine is aged to perfection, resulting in flavours of ripe berries, chocolate, and a hint of spice.
It’s a versatile choice that pairs wonderfully with:
With its high quality and approachable price point, Reserva do Comendador proves you don’t need to splurge to enjoy a great bottle.
Monte Mayor White brings the vibrant freshness of Portuguese whites to the forefront. Made in the Alentejo region, this wine is crisp, refreshing, and bursting with citrus and tropical fruit flavours.
It’s the perfect companion for:
Its lively acidity and balanced finish make it a go-to option for warm afternoons or casual get-togethers.
From the Douro region, Planalto Reserva White is a beautifully balanced wine that showcases the elegance of Portuguese white blends. This reserva is crafted from native grape varieties and offers delicate floral notes, ripe stone fruits, and a refreshing minerality.
Ideal pairings include:
Planalto Reserva is a fantastic choice for those who appreciate complexity in a white wine without a hefty price tag.
Pacheca MGalego White Wine is a standout from the Douro Valley. Made with the Malvasia Fina grape, this wine offers aromatic notes of apricot, wildflowers, and citrus with a soft, elegant finish.
It pairs wonderfully with:
Perfect for alfresco dining or as an aperitif, its premium taste and affordable price make it a must-try for any white wine lover.
For those with a sweet tooth, Marquês de Borba Late Harvest is a delightful dessert wine from the Alentejo region. This golden-hued wine is made from late-harvested grapes, resulting in luscious notes of honey, grapefruit and dried fruits.
A perfect companion for:
With its small bottle size, Marquês de Borba Late is an ideal treat for special occasions or gifting.
Portuguese wines are known for their exceptional value and distinctive character. With a rich history of winemaking and an abundance of native grape varieties, Portugal produces wines that stand out from the crowd. Each region has its own unique style, allowing you to explore a diverse range of flavours without leaving your home.
At Divino.je, we carefully select wines that reflect the best of Portugal, offering quality and affordability in every bottle. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting your journey, these wines under £30 are a great way to discover the richness of Portuguese wine.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the rich and diverse flavours of Portugal without breaking the bank. From bold reds to refreshing whites and indulgent dessert wines, Divino.je offers a carefully curated selection of premium wines under £30.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a quiet evening at home, or searching for the perfect gift, our selection brings the best of Portuguese winemaking to your table. Visit Divino.je today and discover why Portuguese wines are the perfect blend of quality and affordability. Saúde!
* Prices are correct as of January 2025.
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!