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!