Olá! Luís here again.
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.
Start With a Bottle
Aperitivo begins with a drink. In Portugal, this could be sparkling wine, light white wine or something a little different like white port.
Borges White Port with Tonic
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.
Add a Few Cured Meats
Cured meats are a popular part of aperitivo in Portugal. You don’t need a full plate, just a few slices arranged simply.
Primor Salsichão de Porco Preto (Sliced)
Made from black pork, this sliced salsichão has a firm texture and rich flavour. It’s great with bread or olives and needs no cooking.
Quintinha Serrano Ham Sliced
Thin and salty, this ham melts in the mouth. Serve a few slices with some olive oil and cracked pepper.
Porminho Chouriço Slices
These are spicy, smoky slices made with paprika and garlic. You can serve them cold or warm them slightly in a pan.
Three meats are enough for a group of 4 to 6 people. Keep them simple, no sauces are needed.
Bring in Some Cheese
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.
Paiva Amanteigado Curado
This is a semi-cured cheese with a soft, buttery centre. Let it sit at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Castelões Cheese Semi-Hard
This cheese has a stronger flavour and a firmer texture. It balances well with fruit, cured meat and sweet drinks like white port.
Cheese is best served with bread or crackers. A small drizzle of olive oil or some fig jam also works well.
Don’t Forget the Olives
No Portuguese table is complete without olives. They add salt, texture and colour to your board.
Maçarico Black Olives
These are soft and mild olives that are ready to serve straight from the jar.
Maçarico Green Olives
A little sharper in taste, these are marinated and full of flavour.
One jar is enough for 4 people. Serve in a small bowl with a fork or toothpicks.
Round It Off with a Sweet Bite
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.
Presentation Tips
Aperitivo should feel informal, but a little care in how you serve it makes a difference:
- Use wooden boards or small plates for a rustic look
- Let cheeses sit out for 15 to 20 minutes before serving
- Use small bowls or jars for olives and condiments
- Offer cocktail sticks or forks so guests can help themselves easily
- Chill drinks ahead of time and serve with ice
You don’t need a big table or formal setup. A few well-chosen products and relaxed music set the tone.
Simple, Social and Satisfying
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!