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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

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:

• Roast lamb
• Roast beef
• Hearty Sunday lunch dishes

Priced at under £20, it offers the quality of a premium wine at a fraction of the price.

Pacheca Sousão Reserva Red Wine

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:

• Grilled red meat
• Rich stews

This wine’s unique profile will leave a lasting impression.

Reserva do Comendador Red Wine

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:

• Strong cheeses
• Oven-cooked meat dishes
• Pizza

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 Wine

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:

• Grilled fish
• Salads
• Sushi

Its lively acidity and balanced finish make it a go-to option for warm afternoons or casual get-togethers.

Planalto Reserva White Wine

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:

• Seafood
• Light dishes

Planalto Reserva is a fantastic choice for those who appreciate complexity in a white wine without a hefty price tag.

Pacheca White Wine MGalego

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:

• Light appetisers
• Pasta dishes

Perfect for alfresco dining or as an aperitif, its premium taste and affordable price make it a must-try for any white wine lover.

Marquês de Borba Late Harvest

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:

• A cheese platter
• A slice of Pão de Ló

With its small bottle size, Marquês de Borba Late is an ideal treat for special occasions or gifting.

Why Choose Portuguese Wines?

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.

Explore Affordable Luxury at Divino

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.

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!