This guide offers the most thorough list of Portuguese drinks you’ll find, with everything from their famous spirits and wines, through creative cocktails and popular beers, to a variety of non-alcoholic options, both warm and cool.
Portugal’s drink scene includes everything from aromatic fruit brandies and smooth liqueurs to robust fortified wines and lively craft beers, not to mention the array of soft drinks, teas, and coffees. Get ready for a full look at Portugal’s diverse beverage offerings, perfect for any taste or occasion! >>>
1.) Portuguese Spirits
1.1.) Portuguese Liquor
1. Aguardente
- Portuguese fruit brandy
Aguardente, Portugal’s celebrated fruit brandy, embodies the country’s rich distilling traditions, offering a diverse palette of flavors derived from native fruits. Each variant of Aguardente captures the essence of its source, from the earthy tones of Medronhos to the sweet whispers of Pêra. This spirit is not only a testament to Portuguese craftsmanship but also a window into the country’s agricultural bounty. Enjoyed neat, in cocktails, or as a digestif, Aguardente holds a cherished place in Portuguese culture and cuisine.
Popular types of Aguardente include:
- Aguardente de Medronhos: Strawberry tree brandy, distilled from the fruit of the Arbutus unedo tree.
- Aguardente de Pêra: Pear brandy, made from the delicate fermentation of pears.
- Aguardente de Cereja: Cherry brandy, popular for its deep, cherry-infused flavors.
- Aguardente de Banana: Banana brandy, offers a unique, tropical banana essence.
- Aguardente Bagaceira: Pomace brandy, made from grape pomace, similar to grappa.
- Aguardente de Cana: Sugarcane brandy, a rum-like variant of aguardente distilled from sugarcane.
- Aguardente Velha: Aged version of Portugese aguardente, known for its rich and complex character.
– Aguardente Bagaceira
- Portuguese grappa – pomace brandy
Bagaceira, Portugal’s version of grappa, is a potent spirit made from grape pomace. This traditional pomace brandy embodies the resourcefulness of Portuguese winemaking, utilizing the remnants of grapes post-pressing. Its robust flavor and strong character make it a popular choice for a digestive or a bold addition to coffee, known locally as “café com bagaço.”
– Aguardente de Cana
- Portuguese rum-like spirit from sugarcane
Aguardente de Cana is Portugal’s take on rum, distilled from sugarcane, and is especially prominent in Madeira. This spirit is known for its smooth texture and subtly sweet undertones, reflecting the rich sugarcane heritage of the regions it hails from. It serves as a versatile base for cocktails or a mellow sipper, capturing the essence of Portuguese sugarcane in each drop.
– Aguardente Velha
- Aged grape spirit
Aguardente Velha is Portugal’s premium aged spirit, akin to fine cognac or brandy. This aged grape spirit is renowned for its depth, complexity, and smoothness, achieved through years of careful aging in oak barrels. It represents the pinnacle of Portuguese distillation artistry, offering an exquisite sipping experience that connoisseurs treasure.
1.2.) Portuguese Liqueurs
1.2.1.) Herbal Liqueurs
2. Licor Beirão
- Herbal liqueur
Licor Beirão, often hailed as Portugal’s national liqueur, is a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. This herbal liqueur captivates with its sweet, complex flavor profile, making it a versatile addition to cocktails or a delightful digestif. Its secret recipe, passed down through generations, incorporates botanicals from across the globe, reflecting Portugal’s rich history of exploration.
3. Licor de Singeverga
- Artisanal herbal liqueur
Licor de Singeverga is an artisanal herbal liqueur, steeped in the monastic traditions of Portugal. This meticulously crafted spirit is known for its unique blend of herbs and spices, offering a taste that’s both complex and soothing. Produced in limited quantities, it embodies the dedication to quality and tradition in Portuguese liqueur making.
1.2.2.) Fruit Liqueurs
4. Ginja
- Cherry liqueur
Ginja, or Ginjinha, is a cherished cherry liqueur that embodies the sweet and tart flavors of Morello cherries. Originating from Lisbon and Alcobaça, this liqueur is often savored neat, with a cherry in the glass, and epitomizes Portuguese conviviality and heritage. Its rich, fruity essence makes it a beloved after-dinner treat.
5. Licor de Figo
- Fig liqueur
Licor de Figo brings the lush sweetness of figs to the world of Portuguese liqueurs. This fig liqueur is cherished for its smooth texture and deep, resonant flavors that echo the warmth of the Portuguese sun. It’s a sumptuous choice for those looking to explore the sweeter side of Portugal’s liqueur offerings.
6. Licor de Maracujá
- Passionfruit liqueur
Licor de Maracujá captures the exotic essence of passionfruit in a smooth, sweet liqueur that’s distinctly Portuguese. This vibrant and tropical liqueur is perfect for creating summery cocktails or enjoying as a sweet ending to a meal, showcasing the adaptability of Portuguese liqueurs to incorporate diverse fruit flavors.
7. Licor de Amora
- Blackberry liqueur
Licor de Amora is a testament to Portugal’s ability to turn local produce into exquisite liqueurs. This blackberry liqueur combines the juicy, dark flavors of blackberries with the perfect amount of sweetness, resulting in a rich and versatile spirit. It’s a celebration of the countryside’s bounty, ideal for sipping or enhancing desserts.
1.2.3.) Portuguese Nut Liqueur
8. Amêndoa Amarga
- Bitter almond liqueur
Amêndoa Amarga stands out in the realm of Portuguese liqueurs for its distinctive bitter almond flavor. This liqueur combines the aromatic bitterness of almonds with a subtle sweetness, creating a complex and intriguing taste profile. It’s a favored ingredient in cocktails or enjoyed on its own, reflecting the depth of Portuguese liqueur craftsmanship.
2.) Portuguese Cocktails & Mixed Alcoholic Drinks
2.1.) Portuguese Cocktails
9. Porto Tónico
- White Port and tonic
Porto Tónico is a refreshing Portuguese cocktail, combining the sweetness of White Port with the crispness of tonic water. This drink, perfect for warm summer evenings, highlights the versatility of Port wine outside traditional settings. Its light and effervescent character make it a popular choice among those seeking a sophisticated yet refreshing beverage.
10. Caipirão
- Licor Beirão Caipirinha
Caipirão is Portugal’s twist on the classic Caipirinha, substituting cachaça with Licor Beirão. This innovative cocktail retains the original’s refreshing qualities, with the herbal notes of Licor Beirão adding a unique Portuguese flair. It’s a testament to the adaptability of traditional drinks and the creativity in Portuguese mixology.
11. Licor Beirão com Limão
- Licor Beirão with lemon
Licor Beirão com Limão is a vibrant cocktail that marries the herbal sweetness of Licor Beirão with the tartness of fresh lemon. This delightful mix is often served over ice, making it an ideal choice for cooling down and relaxing. Its popularity lies in the balance of flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates.
12. Morangoska
- Strawberry-vodka cocktail
Morangoska is a delightful Portuguese cocktail that combines vodka with fresh strawberries, sugar, and a splash of soda. This drink is a favorite at summer gatherings, offering a sweet and fruity twist to the traditional Vodka Soda. Its popularity stems from its simplicity and the universal appeal of fresh strawberries.
2.2.) Hot Portuguese Alcoholic Beverages
13. Ginjinha quente com canela
- Warm cherry liqueur with cinnamon
Ginjinha quente com canela is a heartwarming Portuguese beverage, perfect for chilly evenings. This hot version of the traditional Ginja liqueur is infused with cinnamon, enhancing the cherry flavors with a spicy warmth. It’s a comforting and aromatic drink that embodies the spirit of Portuguese hospitality.
14. Café com Cheirinho
- Coffee with a “hint” of spirit
Café com Cheirinho translates to “coffee with a hint,” a popular Portuguese custom of adding a splash of Aguardente or another spirit to coffee. This combination creates a warming and invigorating beverage, ideal for leisurely mornings or as an after-dinner treat. The practice showcases the Portuguese love for coffee and spirits, blending them into a delightful concoction.
3.) Portuguese Brewed & Fermented Alcoholic Beverages
3.1.) Portuguese Wine
Portuguese wines come from many different parts of Portugal, from the green Minho region where Vinho Verde is made, to the famous Douro Valley that produces Port wine. Portugal is known for using its own grape types, like Touriga Nacional for reds and Alvarinho for whites, which gives its wines a special taste you can’t find anywhere else.
Portugal is particularly famous for its strong, sweet wines like Port and Madeira, as well as the sweet Moscatel from Setúbal. These wines, along with others from Portugal, are loved around the world.
3.1.1.) Portuguese Fortified Wines
15. Vinho do Porto (Port Wine)
- Fortified wine from Douro
Port Wine, a fortified wine from Portugal’s Douro Valley, is made by adding grape spirit to halt fermentation and retain sugar. It comes in varieties like Ruby, Tawny, and Vintage, each with distinct aging processes and flavor profiles. Ruby Ports are fruity and vibrant, Tawnies offer nutty, caramel notes from longer barrel aging, and Vintage Ports are full-bodied, made from the best harvests. Enjoyed globally, Port is often served after meals, pairing well with cheese and desserts.
16. Vinho da Madeira (Madeira Wine)
- Fortified wine from Madeira
Madeira Wine, from the Madeira Islands, undergoes a unique aging process called ‘estufagem’ which involves heating the wine. This method gives Madeira its characteristic rich, robust flavors and remarkable longevity. Madeira ranges from dry to sweet, making it versatile for sipping or cooking. Sercial and Verdelho are drier, ideal as aperitifs, while Bual and Malmsey are sweeter, perfect for desserts. Madeira’s history dates back to the Age of Exploration when it was fortified for sea voyages.
17. Moscatel de Setúbal
- Aromatic fortified wine from Setúbal
Moscatel de Setúbal, a fortified wine from the Setúbal Peninsula south of Lisbon, is made primarily from the Muscat grape. Known for its rich, fragrant profile with notes of orange blossom, citrus, and spices, it’s a favorite dessert wine. Its sweetness is balanced by acidity, making it complex and enjoyable. Production involves aging in oak barrels, enhancing its depth. Moscatel de Setúbal’s history spans centuries, celebrated in Portuguese wine culture for its aromatic allure.
18. Vinho de Carcavelos
- Rare fortified wine
Vinho de Carcavelos, a rare fortified wine from the small Carcavelos region near Lisbon, is crafted from a blend of white grapes. With production limited by urban expansion, it’s a precious part of Portugal’s winemaking heritage. The wine is known for its amber color, complex flavors of nuts, spices, and dried fruit, and a velvety texture. Traditionally aged in oak for several years, Carcavelos is a testament to the rich history and meticulous craftsmanship of Portuguese winemakers.
3.1.2.) Portuguese Wines (Non-Fortified)
19. Vinho Verde
- Young, fresh wine
Vinho Verde, literally “green wine,” refers to its youthful freshness rather than color, hailing from the Minho region in northern Portugal. This wine is cherished for its light, spritzy nature, often exhibiting a slight effervescence, making it an ideal companion for seafood and warm days.
20. Alentejo wines
- Wines from Alentejo
Alentejo wines are renowned for their richness and diversity, reflecting the vast landscapes of the Alentejo region. These wines range from full-bodied reds to aromatic whites, showcasing the region’s winemaking flexibility and the sun-drenched terroir’s impact on grape cultivation.
21. Douro wines
- Robust wines from Douro
Douro wines, beyond the famous Port, are celebrated for their robust and complex character. This region’s still wines, both red and white, are gaining acclaim for their quality and depth, embodying the terroir’s unique attributes that contribute to their distinctive profiles.
22. Dão wines
- Elegant wines from Dão
Dão wines are known for their elegance and balance, originating from one of Portugal’s oldest wine regions. These wines, primarily red, are characterized by their smooth tannins and subtle fruit flavors, reflecting the region’s cooler climate and granite-based soils.
23. Bairrada wines
- Full-bodied wines from Bairrada
Bairrada wines are distinguished by their structure and depth, often made from the Baga grape. This region produces robust reds and vibrant sparkling wines, illustrating the versatility and unique climate of Bairrada, which contributes to the distinctive character of its wines.
24. Colares wines
- Rare wines from sandy soils
Colares wines, from the small Colares region near Sintra, are remarkably rare and intriguing, known for their production in sandy soils that resist phylloxera. These wines, particularly the reds made from Ramisco grapes, are celebrated for their unique taste and storied history, encapsulating the essence of a nearly lost winemaking tradition.
3.1.3.) Portuguese Sparkling Wines
25. Espumante de Vinho Verde
- Sparkling green wine
Espumante de Vinho Verde brings a sparkling twist to the traditional Vinho Verde, introducing effervescence to its light, fresh profile. This sparkling version captures the youthful spirit of Vinho Verde, making it a perfect celebratory drink that highlights the innovation within Portuguese wine production.
3.2.) Portuguese Beer
3.2.1.) Mainstream Brands
26. Super Bock
- Refreshing, slightly malty lager
Super Bock is a leading Portuguese beer brand, known for its smooth and slightly malty lager. Brewed since 1927 in Porto, it has won numerous international awards. Super Bock is enjoyed for its consistent quality and refreshing taste, making it a favorite at festivals and social gatherings across Portugal and beyond.
27. Sagres
- Light, crisp, versatile lager
Sagres beer, named after the historic town, is a staple in Portugal, cherished for its light, crisp flavor. Brewed since 1940, Sagres offers a range of beers, including lagers and dark beers. Its versatility and easy-drinking nature make it a popular choice in cafes and restaurants throughout the country.
28. Minipreço
- Budget-friendly, easy-drinking beer
Minipreço is a budget-friendly beer option in Portugal, known for its accessibility and decent quality. It caters to those looking for an economical choice without sacrificing the experience of enjoying a cold beer. Minipreço is often found in supermarkets and is favored for casual, everyday enjoyment.
3.2.2.) Craft Beer
29. Letra
- Innovative, diverse craft beer
Letra is a craft beer from the Minho region, distinguishing itself through innovative brewing techniques and unique flavors. Letra’s range includes various styles, from IPAs to stouts, showcasing the diversity and creativity of Portugal’s craft beer scene. Beer enthusiasts appreciate Letra for its quality and the story behind each brew.
30. Sovina
- Artisanal, quality-focused craft beer
Sovina, another gem in Portugal’s craft beer landscape, is recognized for its artisanal approach and emphasis on quality ingredients. Sovina offers a variety of styles, appealing to those seeking a sophisticated beer experience. Its dedication to craft and flavor has earned Sovina a loyal following among discerning beer drinkers.
31. Coral
- Madeiran, refreshing island beer
Coral is a traditional beer from Madeira, known for its refreshing taste that suits the island’s climate. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors for its light, easy-drinking profile, making it a perfect accompaniment to Madeira’s rich cuisine. Coral embodies the spirit and flavors of its island home.
3.3.) Portuguese Ciders
32. Sidra
- Traditional apple cider
Sidra is Portugal’s take on cider, made from fermented apple juice. Portuguese sidra varies from dry to sweet, offering a range of flavors that reflect the local apple varieties and production methods. It’s a popular alternative to beer, enjoyed in many regions of Portugal, particularly in the cooler months.
33. Perry
- Fermented pear cider
Perry, known in Portugal as “perada,” is a cider made from fermented pear juice. It’s less common than apple cider but is cherished for its delicate, nuanced flavors. Perry is a traditional beverage in some Portuguese regions, offering a unique taste experience that complements the country’s diverse alcoholic beverage offerings.
4.) Portuguese Non-Alcoholic Drinks
4.1.) Cold Non-Alcoholic Portuguese Beverages
4.1.1.) Juices
34. Compal
- Renowned Portuguese fruit juice
Compal is celebrated for its authentic fruit juices, sourced from the finest Portuguese orchards. Offering a wide array of flavors, Compal embodies the true essence of fruit, making it a staple in Portuguese homes and a refreshing choice for any time of the day.
35. Sumol
- Iconic Portuguese fruity soda
Sumol stands out with its vibrant flavors, particularly orange and pineapple, offering a refreshing fizz that’s synonymous with Portuguese leisure. Its bright, fruity taste and effervescence make it a popular choice for refreshment in Portugal’s warm climate.
4.1.2.) Sodas & Soft Drinks
36. Laranjada
- Traditional Portuguese orange soda
Laranjada is one of the oldest soft drinks in Portugal, known for its sweet and tangy orange flavor. This classic beverage, often homemade, is a beloved refreshment, capturing the sunny essence of Portuguese citrus in every sip.
37. Guaraná
- Energizing, berry-flavored soft drink
Guaraná, inspired by the Amazonian berry, is a favorite in Portugal for its unique, slightly tart flavor and natural energizing properties. This soft drink offers a refreshing taste and a gentle energy boost, making it a popular choice among all ages.
38. Frize
- Sparkling mineral water with a twist
Frize is not your ordinary mineral water; it’s infused with unique flavors, providing a refreshing and sophisticated alternative to plain water. Its light carbonation and subtle taste profiles make Frize a fashionable choice for hydration and enjoyment.
39. Água de Luso
- Pure, natural mineral water
Água de Luso is sourced from the natural springs of Luso, Portugal, renowned for its purity and mineral-rich composition. Esteemed for its quality, this water is a staple in Portuguese dining, complementing the country’s rich gastronomy.
4.2.) Hot Non-Alcoholic Portuguese Beverages
4.2.1.) Coffee-based
40. Galão
- Creamy Portuguese coffee latte
Galão is a beloved Portuguese coffee drink, a comforting blend of espresso and foamed milk, served in a tall glass. Its smooth, creamy texture makes it a morning favorite, embodying the relaxed Portuguese approach to coffee culture.
41. Meia de Leite
- Smooth, balanced coffee with milk
Meia de Leite, literally “half milk,” is Portugal’s answer to the café latte, offering a perfect balance of espresso and steamed milk. It’s a staple in Portuguese cafés, ideal for those who enjoy a milder coffee experience.
4.2.2.) Tea
42. Chá de Tília
- Soothing, fragrant lime blossom tea
Chá de Tília is cherished for its calming properties and delicate floral aroma, making it a popular herbal tea in Portugal. This infusion, made from lime blossoms, is a go-to for relaxation and tranquility, reflecting the Portuguese appreciation for natural remedies.
43. Chá de Erva-Príncipe
- Refreshing lemongrass herbal tea
Chá de Erva-Príncipe, or lemongrass tea, is known for its refreshing citrusy flavor and digestive benefits. This herbal tea is a favorite for its invigorating properties and is often enjoyed in Portugal for its healthful qualities.
44. Chá de Poejo
- Minty, aromatic pennyroyal tea
Chá de Poejo, made from pennyroyal, is a traditional Portuguese herbal tea known for its minty aroma and digestive benefits. This tea is a staple in Portuguese homes, valued for its soothing effects and pleasant taste.