Real Conservera Española · Selección 1920 · Small Sardines in Spicy Olive Oil (Sardinillas en Aceite de Oliva Picante) Galicia, Spain

The Moment

This is the tin you open when you want something classic with just a hint of intrigue — pristine, comforting, and quietly addictive. It’s perfect for effortless snacking, shared boards, or a glass of something crisp poured nearby.

What It Feels Like

The aroma is clean and inviting, led by high-quality olive oil with a gentle warmth underneath. There’s no aggressive fishiness here — just a soft, savory perfume that signals freshness.

On the palate, the sardines are exceptionally mild and balanced. The flavor is clean and umami-driven, with natural sweetness and depth rather than salt. A touch of red guindilla pepper brings a very gentle heat — subtle, warming, and never dominant — adding interest without distracting from the fish.

The finish is smooth and satisfying, lingering on olive oil richness, savory depth, and a soft echo of spice.

Texture

The small size makes all the difference.

Each sardine is firm enough to lift cleanly from the tin, yet tender and creamy once eaten. The flesh melts gently on the palate, delivering richness without heaviness and a refined, almost delicate mouthfeel.

Perfect For

Enjoyed straight from the tin
Laid over crusty sourdough or toast
Paired with salted butter, fresh tomato, or thin-sliced onion
Added to a high-end cheese or conservas board
Moments when simplicity is the goal

Pairs Beautifully With

Crisp & Mineral Whites
Albariño, Muscadet, Savoie Jacquère, or Vermentino — acidity and salinity balance the olive oil and gentle spice.

Fresh & Mineral Rosé
Dry, pale rosés lift the sardines’ richness and keep the pairing light and refreshing.

Light, Fresh & Chillable Reds
High-acid reds served with a slight chill — Gamay or Pinot Noir Nouveau — work beautifully with the umami and mild heat.

Sparkling (Brut or Extra Brut)
Bubbles cleanse the palate and highlight texture between bites.

Why We Love It

These sardines show how powerful restraint can be. Hand-packed, delicately spiced, and impeccably preserved, the Selección 1920 sardines deliver purity, texture, and just enough heat to keep things interesting. An everyday luxury that never feels ordinary.