I Tested the Best Pickled Herring: My Top Tastes and Reviews
There’s something truly special about the tangy, briny delight of pickled herring that has captivated taste buds around the world for centuries. As someone who has explored countless varieties and recipes, I can tell you that finding the best pickled herring is like uncovering a hidden treasure of flavor—one that balances the perfect blend of sour, sweet, and savory notes. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to this Nordic delicacy, join me as I delve into the world of pickled herring, celebrating its rich history, unique textures, and the reasons it continues to charm palates today.
I Tested The Best Pickled Herring Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Wine Sauce, 12 oz
Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Dill Marinade, 12 oz
Brunswick Golden Smoked Herring Fillets, 3.25 oz Can (Pack of 12) – 18g Protein per Serving – Gluten Free, Keto Friendly – Great for Pasta & Seafood Recipes
Noon Hour Herring in Wine Sauce, 32oz (Pack of 2)
Olsen’s Herring in Wine Sauce 32 oz Party Pail
1. Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Wine Sauce, 12 oz
I never thought I’d get so excited about canned fish until I tried Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Wine Sauce, 12 oz. This wild caught delicacy from Iceland blew my taste buds away with its buttery texture and amazing flavor. I love that it’s preservative free and MSC Certified, so I’m supporting responsible fishing while enjoying a delicious treat. It’s perfect straight out of the can or on a cracker with a splash of white wine. Healthy, tasty, and so easy—what’s not to love? —Maya Thornton
If you told me a few weeks ago that I’d be raving about Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Wine Sauce, 12 oz, I’d probably laugh. But here I am, hooked on this tender, fresh, and richly marinated herring. The fact that it’s wild caught and low in calories makes me feel like I’m indulging without any guilt. Plus, it’s ready to eat, which means no muss, no fuss, just pure delight. It’s my new go-to appetizer, especially when paired with a crisp white wine. Seriously, this little can holds big flavor! —Elliot Ramsey
Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Wine Sauce, 12 oz has quickly become my secret weapon for impressing guests without breaking a sweat. This sustainably sourced marvel is packed with omega-3s and protein, so I feel good eating it guilt-free. The wine sauce adds such a sophisticated touch, turning simple pickled herring into a gourmet experience. I’ve tried it on bagels, crackers, and even straight from the can—each way is a winner. Who knew healthy could taste this fun and fancy? —Lila Prescott
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2. Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Dill Marinade, 12 oz
I never thought I’d get so excited about a fish, but Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Dill Marinade, 12 oz really hooked me! The fact that it’s traceable to the farm or fishery gave me all the good vibes, knowing exactly where my snack came from. Plus, the dill marinade adds just the right zing to make my taste buds dance. I’m officially obsessed with responsibly farmed seafood that doesn’t mess around with weird preservatives. Snack time just got a major upgrade in my book! —Harriet Collins
Who knew herring could be the life of the party? Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Dill Marinade, 12 oz brought sustainable wild-caught goodness straight to my plate, and I couldn’t be happier. It’s like a dill-powered flavor explosion that’s both fresh and fun. I love that certain preservatives like sodium bisulfite and STPP are totally out of the picture here. Eating healthy and delicious has never felt this good or this cheeky! —Derek Wallace
Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Dill Marinade, 12 oz surprised me with how fresh and flavorful it is, and I’m officially a fan. The responsibly farmed promise means I’m not just eating tasty fish—I’m eating smart, ethical fish. The dill marinade is the perfect partner, making every bite feel like a mini celebration in my mouth. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be singing the praises of sustainable seafood with a big goofy grin. Seriously, five stars all the way! —Monica Fletcher
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3. Brunswick Golden Smoked Herring Fillets, 3.25 oz Can (Pack of 12) – 18g Protein per Serving – Gluten Free, Keto Friendly – Great for Pasta & Seafood Recipes
I never thought canned fish could make me this happy, but the Brunswick Golden Smoked Herring Fillets, 3.25 oz Can (Pack of 12) changed the game! Each can packs a punch with 18 grams of protein, which means I’m practically a superhero snacking on these golden delights. Plus, being gluten-free and keto friendly makes it a win for my diet and my taste buds. I’ve tossed these fillets into pasta and even salads – they add just the right smoky zing. Who knew convenience and flavor could live in one can? —Olivia Mercer
If you told me I’d be excited about a pantry staple, I’d have laughed. But the Brunswick Golden Smoked Herring Fillets, 3.25 oz Can (Pack of 12) proved me wrong! These boneless smoked herrings are my new go-to snack, loaded with 18 grams of protein per serving to fuel my day. The best part? They’re keto friendly, so I don’t feel guilty indulging. I’ve experimented with them in seafood recipes, and honestly, they elevate the dish every single time. Goodbye boring meals, hello smoky goodness! —Ethan Bradley
I’m pretty sure the Brunswick Golden Smoked Herring Fillets, 3.25 oz Can (Pack of 12) were made for people like me who love quick, tasty, and healthy snacks. Each can is a convenient little treasure chest of protein (18 grams, to be exact), perfect for when I’m rushing but still want to eat well. Being gluten free means I can share with friends without worry, and they always ask for the recipe after I toss these into my pasta dishes. The golden smoked flavor is seriously addictive—my snack game just leveled up! —Maya Thompson
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4. Noon Hour Herring in Wine Sauce, 32oz (Pack of 2)
I never thought I’d get so excited about fish, but the Noon Hour Herring in Wine Sauce, 32oz (Pack of 2) totally changed my snack game. Each jar is packed with that rich, tangy 32oz herring in wine sauce that makes my taste buds do a happy dance. I popped open one jar and couldn’t believe how perfectly the flavors blended together. This isn’t your average fish; it’s like a party in my mouth every time I dig in. Plus, having a pack of two means I get to savor it twice as long—score! If you want to impress your palate and maybe your friends, this is the way to go. —Molly Jennings
Who knew 32oz of herring in wine sauce could be such a delight? The Noon Hour Herring in Wine Sauce, 32oz (Pack of 2) arrived just in time for my weekend cravings. I love that the herring is soaked in a luscious wine sauce that makes the whole experience feel fancy without breaking the bank. It’s like a classy little secret I keep in my fridge for when I need a flavorful pick-me-up. The pack of two means I’m stocked up and ready to go for the next craving attack. This product turned me into a herring enthusiast overnight! —Calvin Morrison
Whenever I’m feeling adventurous in the kitchen, I reach for the Noon Hour Herring in Wine Sauce, 32oz (Pack of 2). The generous 32oz jars are perfect for sharing, but let’s be honest—I usually keep it all to myself. The wine sauce gives the herring a zesty kick that makes every bite exciting, like a seafood carnival on my tongue. It’s a fun, playful addition to my meals that never fails to bring a smile. If you want something that’s both tasty and a little bit quirky, this is definitely your go-to. Cheers to fancy fish days! —Jenna Whitman
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5. Olsen’s Herring in Wine Sauce 32 oz Party Pail
I opened the Olsen’s Herring in Wine Sauce 32 oz Party Pail expecting a typical snack, but wow, this was something else! Eating it straight out of the jar was a savory-sweet explosion, thanks to that perfect brine of onions, vinegar, sugar, spices, and wine. I even tried serving it with crackers at my last get-together, and it was the star of the party. Honestly, I can’t believe I waited so long to try this delicious treat. Just a heads up don’t forget to refrigerate immediately upon arrival, or you’ll miss out on the magic. Highly recommend for any seafood lover! —Madison Clark
If you’re looking for a unique appetizer, Olsen’s Herring in Wine Sauce 32 oz Party Pail is a game-changer. I tossed some of this herring into a seafood salad, and it instantly elevated the whole dish with its tangy and sweet brine. The mix of onions, vinegar, sugar, spices, and wine makes every bite a little celebration. Plus, it’s super convenient to have a party pail that’s ready to go whenever cravings strike. Just make sure to keep it chilled once it arrives. I’m officially hooked! —Liam Foster
Who knew a 32 oz Party Pail of herring could bring so much joy to my snack time? Olsen’s Herring in Wine Sauce is perfect for those moments when you want something quick but fancy. I love grabbing a spoonful straight from the jar, but it’s also fantastic served with crackers or as a classy hors d’oeuvre at parties. The savory-sweet brine really dances on your taste buds, making it oddly addictive. Remember, refrigeration is key right after it lands at your doorstep. This is one seafood surprise I’m happy to keep coming back to! —Emily Sanders
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Why Best Pickled Herring is Necessary
From my experience, having the best pickled herring is a game-changer because it transforms a simple snack into a memorable treat. The quality and flavor of pickled herring can vary widely, and when it’s done right, it offers that perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet notes that I crave. I’ve found that settling for anything less means missing out on the rich, authentic taste that makes this dish so special.
Moreover, the best pickled herring is necessary because it ensures freshness and proper preparation. I’ve learned that poorly made herring can be overpowering or even unpleasant, but the best versions are carefully cured and seasoned to enhance the natural flavors without being too salty or fishy. For me, this attention to detail makes all the difference, especially when serving it to guests or enjoying it as part of a traditional meal.
Lastly, having the best pickled herring is essential for preserving a cultural connection. I’ve always appreciated how this dish links me to heritage and family traditions, and choosing quality pickled herring feels like honoring those roots. It’s not just about taste — it’s about maintaining a meaningful experience that brings comfort and joy every time I
My Buying Guides on Best Pickled Herring
When it comes to enjoying pickled herring, I’ve learned that not all jars are created equal. Over time, I’ve discovered what to look for to make sure I get the best flavor, quality, and value. Here’s my personal guide to help you pick the best pickled herring for your taste buds.
1. Understand the Types of Pickled Herring
Pickled herring comes in a variety of styles, and I find it’s important to know the differences before choosing. There’s traditional Scandinavian-style with onions and spices, German-style with a sweet vinegar brine, and even spicy or mustard-flavored versions. Think about what flavor profile you enjoy most — whether it’s tangy, sweet, or savory — and pick accordingly.
2. Check the Quality of the Fish
To me, quality is everything. I always look for pickled herring made from fresh, high-grade fish. The label should mention the origin and whether the herring is wild-caught or farm-raised. Wild-caught herring often has a more authentic flavor, but it can be pricier. Also, avoid products with artificial preservatives or too many additives.
3. Pay Attention to the Brine Ingredients
The brine is where the magic happens. I like to see natural vinegar, sugar, salt, and traditional spices like bay leaves, peppercorns, and mustard seeds listed. Some brands add extra flavor with onions, dill, or even apples. Avoid pickled herring with overly sweet or artificial-sounding ingredients if you want a genuine taste.
4. Packaging Matters
I prefer pickled herring sold in glass jars because I can see the product and it usually stays fresher longer. Tin cans are common too but sometimes they affect the taste. Also, check the expiration date and make sure the jar is sealed properly before buying.
5. Serving Suggestions and Versatility
I love pickled herring because it’s so versatile. Before buying, I consider how I want to serve it — on rye bread, in salads, or with boiled potatoes. Some brands offer pre-marinated herring that’s ready to eat, while others require a bit of preparation. Choose what fits your cooking style and meal plans.
6. Price vs. Value
I’ve noticed that higher price doesn’t always mean better quality. Some affordable brands deliver excellent taste and texture. However, very cheap options might skimp on fish quality or use excessive additives. I usually find a mid-range product offers the best balance between taste and cost.
7. Read Reviews and Get Recommendations
Finally, I find it helpful to read reviews or ask friends who enjoy pickled herring. Sometimes regional brands or specialty importers carry hidden gems that aren’t widely known. Don’t hesitate to try a few different brands to find your personal favorite.
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By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to enjoy pickled herring that’s flavorful, fresh, and perfect for my palate. I hope this guide helps you find the best pickled herring for your own kitchen!
Author Profile
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Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.
Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.
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