First foray into a group of more premium selections I've accumulated lately, these Espinaler Baby Sardines in Spicy Olive Oil are a real treat. The 10/12 designation on the carton means you are to expect 10 to 12 fish. At first glance, you might think so many fish would mean sprats, but these are pilchards.
Initial impression upon opening the can: 4.8/5.
Tightly packed can. Nice skin, torn only in a few spots, probably to be expected with a pack this tight. Clean sardine aroma. Some have partial tails, but no prickliness. A few scales to be seen, but not enough to complain about.
Pulling fish from the can, they are tender. Melt in your mouth tender, in fact. There are 5 more under the 5 visible. The spice is subtle, letting the delicate taste of the fish shine though. The ingredients list only "spicy aroma" with no further elaboration. It appears to be bay laurel at least, with perhaps the slightest hint of clove. No real heat apparent. There is no smokiness, and none is indicated on the label.
The quality is what you should expect from a premium label like Espinaler. These in the blue box are from their "classic" line. The ones in a linen toned carton are their "premium" selections. Those are more costly, and don't necessarily have corresponding versions in the classic line.
Main Takeaways
- Pilchards, not sprats
- Subtle spiciness
- Super tender
Recommended. I'd have no problem ordering these again.
Brand: Espinaler
Description: Baby Sardines in Spicy Olive Oil
Species: Sardina pilchardus
Country of Origin: Spain
Source: FAO27, Northeast Atlantic
Skin/Bones: Yes/Yes
Net Wt: 4 oz.
Price Range: $6-7