These Briosa Gourmet Spiced Sardines came with my first order from International Loft. I had not encountered the brand before at any of my usual local or online sources. I was looking forward to giving them a try.
Initial impression upon opening the can: 4.9/5.
Nice looking fish. Packed silvery belly side up. Four stocky pilchards. The oil is tinted a coppery orange from the pepper. A few scales, but not enough to complain about. The can is a deep one, and the net weight is a generous 4.2 oz.
Not too much in the way of aroma coming from the can. A sip of the oil gives hints of the spices and a subtle amount of heat. They are packed in olive oil, which is apparently of good quality, even if not listed as EVOO. Packed in tight, too. It was difficult to get an entire fish out of the can intact. They were quite tender.
A first taste of the fish is impressive. Everything seems in balance, from the fresh sardine flavor to the spices, to the amount of salt. All spot on. Underneath, there's a pickle slice, the obligatory paper-thin sliver of carrot, and a chili pepper about two inches long. I taste clove, listed on the wrapper, but there doesn't seem to be one in the can. No bay leaf, but I didn't miss it.
If I had any complaint, it would be that the fish, while very tender, was a tad dry. But it didn't stop me from finishing the can.
Examining the wrapper, I see Briosa Gourmet is under the Conservas Portugal Norte umbrella, along with Porthos. Looking back at my review of the Porthos Spiced Sardines, I note they have quite a bit in common. These Briosa, however, were about 25% cheaper. I'd buy them again.
Brand: Conservas Portugal Norte / Briosa Gourmet
Description: Spiced sardines in olive oil
Species: Sardina pilchardus
Country of Origin: Portugal
Source: FAO27, Northeast Atlantic
Skin/Bones: Yes/Yes
Net Wt: 4.2 oz.
Price Range: $4-5