Portugal is definitely a wealth of different flavors both when it comes to traditional dishes and typical spirits. Explore our list of 5 spirits to try while in the Algarve.
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Portuguese beer
Beer is one of the most popular alcohols in the Algarve. It is often served in a mini version (200ml), which is explained by the rapid rate at which the drink heats up. If you want to order such a small beer, you must ask for a imperial (beer poured from a dispenser into a 200ml glass). If you fancy a larger beer then you order a caneca (beer from a stick in a 500ml mug or glass).
Below is a list of the 3 most popular beers served in the Algarve:
Sagres – a beer that fills the shelves of stores, markets and the bar. It is ubiquitous. It was created around 1940 and is sold in bottles, cans. It has many varieties: from light, light and refreshing, to dark, with deep, varied flavor and aroma. The beer is named after the town of Sagres located in the Algarve, in southern Portugal. The beer is the winner of 12 Monde Selection gold and three silver medals . It has also been recognized by theWorld Beer Competition.
Super Bock – is another leading beer brand on the Portuguese market, after Sagres. It is delicate in flavor, with no pronounced bitterness, and is lightly saturated with CO2. Like Sagres beer, it has many varieties. Perfect for hot days.
Cristal Pilsner – considered by some to be one of the tastiest and lightest Portuguese beers. Refreshing, full of fruity and malty notes.
Vinho verde
One of Portugal’s most popular drinks is vinho verde, which literally means“green wine.” However, the name derives not from the color, but from the freshness and youthfulness of the wine. It is produced from grapes harvested before they reach full maturity. Vinho verde can be purchased in any supermarket and restaurants. Prices for green wine in the store start at about 2 euros per bottle. Vinho verde is served chilled.
Medronho
Medronho is nothing more than a small red fruit that comes from the medronheiro tree , which is used to produce the traditional Portuguese beverage of the same name. Legends circulate about its power and properties, and tasting a glass of this specialty is a must on any trip. Medronho fruits are rich in vitamin C and prized for their antioxidant, diuretic, antiseptic and cleansing properties. They are an ingredient in various culinary preparations.
When the Portuguese hear inquiries about medronho – they nod their heads in agreement. They know what powers this beverage hides, because despite the fact that it is made from an inconspicuous-looking plant – its power can overpower. Anyone who has drunk medronho at least once will confirm this.
Melosa
Melosa is one of those very typical Algarve liqueurs, made from medronho mixed with honey. It is a liqueur often chosen by ladies because of its milder sweet taste than medronho. It is often served as a digestif after a meal.
Ginjinha (or ginja)
Ginjinha (or ginja) is a popular Portuguese cherry liqueur. These sweet liquors are very popular in the north of the country. The towns of Obidos and Alcobaça are home to Ginjinha factories, whose roots date back to the 19th century. Lisbon is home to the famous A Ginjinha bar, where this cherry liqueur was first tasted.
