2017 vintage matured sardines La Perle des Dieux. "Mademoiselle Perle in Japan" collection

Aged sardines are not just canned fish; they are a true gourmet delight with a history. They are caught at the best time – in late summer, when sardines are fattiest and full of natural oils.

Caught off the coast of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie in the Vendée region, these sardines are selected for their high fat content, exceeding 12%. This is a tradition that has been cultivated since 2004, when the sardines are prepared and canned by hand within hours of being caught, and finally covered with high-quality olive oil.

Unlike regular sardines, these are intended to age in the can for several years – during this time, the flavors blend, becoming richer and smoother, like a fine, patiently aged wine. These sardines are aged, with the can being flipped every six months to ensure their texture softens evenly and their natural flavor develops during storage. They are often marked with specific catch years and released in limited editions, making them not only a delicacy but also a small collectible item.

And the best way to enjoy them is simply – on a slice of crisp bread, perhaps with a squeeze of lemon, to reveal all that warm, deep, and comforting taste of the sea.

Shelf life is 10 years from the date of production.

115 g | Drained weight 86.3 g