These sardines are a rare and exceptional catch. They come from the clear, cold waters off the Portuguese coast, where small, seasonal fisheries prioritize quality over quantity. Only the finest fish of the harvest are selected, gently steamed, and packed in high-quality olive oil to preserve their delicate texture and rich flavor. Over time, these tinned sardines age gracefully — developing a softer, more luxurious mouthfeel and deeper, rounder flavor notes. The result is a vintage tin worthy of savoring on its own or as part of a thoughtful culinary spread.
Each tin represents a particular season’s catch, much like a fine wine. The 2021 vintage captures the essence of the Portuguese coast at its peak: briny, buttery, and subtly sweet. Aged sardines like these are highly sought after by connoisseurs for their smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture and elegant balance of oceanic salinity and the lush fruitiness of olive oil. Enjoy them simply with good bread, lemon, and sea salt, or build an elevated tapas board with charcuterie, cheeses, and pickled vegetables.
Zingerman’s is renowned for its unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, flavor, and food stories that matter. By collaborating with small producers around the world, they bring exceptional, terroir-driven products like these sardines to an audience that values authenticity and excellence. This 2021 vintage tin is a time capsule of flavor and tradition.