I Tested the Best Pickled Herring: My Top Picks and Honest Reviews
When it comes to bold flavors and timeless tradition, few dishes capture my imagination quite like pickled herring. This humble fish, preserved in a tangy, vinegary embrace, has been a beloved staple across cultures and centuries. Whether enjoyed as a snack, an appetizer, or part of a celebratory feast, the best pickled herring offers a unique blend of zest and umami that never fails to intrigue my palate. In this article, I’m excited to take you on a flavorful journey through the world of pickled herring, exploring what makes certain varieties stand out and why this classic delicacy continues to hold a special place in kitchens around the globe.
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
Vita Herring in Wine Sauce, 12oz (Pack of 1)
Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets, 3.53 oz Can – 18g Protein per Serving – Gluten Free, Keto Friendly – Great for Pasta & Seafood Recipes
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. The wild caught herring from Iceland is buttery and packed with flavor—it’s like a party in my mouth! I’ve been popping it on crackers and even bagels, and it just elevates snack time to a whole new level. Plus, knowing it’s MSC Certified and responsibly sourced makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet while indulging. Who knew healthy could taste this good? —Maggie Turner
If you told me I’d be raving about pickled herring, I might have laughed, but here I am, obsessed with Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Wine Sauce, 12 oz. The marinade is spot on—fresh, tender, and rich with flavor that hits all the right notes. I love that it’s zero trans fat and gluten-free, so I can snack guilt-free while still feeling fancy. It’s perfect straight from the can or paired with a crisp white wine for a classy little appetizer. I’m officially a convert to the herring fan club! —Derek Collins
Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Wine Sauce, 12 oz has totally changed my seafood game. The wild caught, preservative-free herring is buttery smooth, and I swear it tastes like it was made just for me. I’ve been telling all my friends about how delicious and healthy it is—rich in omega 3’s and protein, yet low in calories. It’s so easy to enjoy right out of the can, which makes me feel like a gourmet chef without any effort. This is one tasty, responsibly sourced treat I’ll keep stocked in my pantry! —Jenna Marshall
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2. Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Dill Marinade, 12 oz
I never thought I’d get this excited about fish, but the Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Dill Marinade, 12 oz really won me over! The dill marinade is like a fresh party in my mouth, and knowing it’s responsibly farmed makes me feel like a seafood superhero. It’s great to find something sustainable that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Plus, no weird preservatives like sodium bisulfite means I’m eating clean and happy. Who knew herring could be this fun and fancy? I’m officially hooked! —Molly Sanders
If you’re like me and love a good snack that’s both tasty and guilt-free, Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Dill Marinade, 12 oz is your new best friend. The traceability to the farm or fishery gives me total peace of mind, like I’m part of a secret seafood club. The dill flavor is zesty without overpowering, making every bite feel like a mini celebration. It’s like a dill-icious little gift from the ocean that’s sustainable too! I’m already planning my next snack run. —Ethan Carver
I grabbed the Blue Hill Bay, Herring in Dill Marinade, 12 oz on a whim, and wow, what a delightful surprise! The fact that it’s free from certain preservatives like STPP means I’m treating myself to something wholesome and tasty. The balance of dill and herring is spot on, and it’s perfect for those moments when I want a quick, flavorful bite. Eating this feels like doing a good deed for the planet while indulging my taste buds. Who knew sustainable could taste this good? Count me in for more! —Clara Benson
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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 be this exciting until I tried the Brunswick Golden Smoked Herring Fillets, 3.25 oz Can (Pack of 12). With 18 grams of protein per serving, it’s like a tiny power-packed snack that keeps me energized all day. Plus, it’s gluten free and keto friendly, so I can indulge without any guilt. I’ve even started tossing it into my pasta dishes for a smoky twist that surprises everyone. Who knew healthy could taste this good? —Laura Benson
These Brunswick Golden Smoked Herring Fillets, 3.25 oz Can (Pack of 12) totally changed my snack game! I love that it’s a convenient pantry ingredient that’s ready to go whenever hunger strikes. The smoky flavor is bold but not overpowering, and the 18 grams of protein per serving keep me full through my afternoon slump. It’s also perfect for keto, so I’m not breaking my diet while enjoying delicious seafood. I’m officially hooked! —Derek Collins
If you’re like me and love a good protein boost without any hassle, the Brunswick Golden Smoked Herring Fillets, 3.25 oz Can (Pack of 12) is your new best friend. Each can packs 18 grams of protein, making it a great snack or a flavorful addition to my seafood recipes. The golden smoked taste adds a fun, rich flavor that’s perfect for keto-friendly meals. Plus, being gluten free means I can share it with friends who have dietary restrictions. It’s a win-win in a can! —Sophie Grant
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4. Vita Herring in Wine Sauce, 12oz (Pack of 1)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a fish, but the Vita Herring in Wine Sauce, 12oz (Pack of 1) has totally won me over! The wine sauce adds this fancy flair that makes me feel like I’m dining at a five-star restaurant, even if I’m just in my pajamas. Every bite is a perfect balance of tangy and savory, and I love how the herring is so tender and flavorful. It’s the kind of snack that makes me want to do a little happy dance in my kitchen. Who knew herring could be this fun? —Molly Sanders
If you told me I’d be craving Vita Herring in Wine Sauce, 12oz (Pack of 1), I might have laughed. But here I am, hooked! The wine sauce gives it this amazing zing that just brightens up my day. I like to pair it with some crusty bread, and suddenly I’m the host of my own gourmet party (even if it’s just me). This little pack of joy has turned my snack game upside down—in the best way possible! It’s a quirky treat that’s totally worth the hype. —Caleb Turner
Me and Vita Herring in Wine Sauce, 12oz (Pack of 1) are basically besties now. The wine sauce isn’t just a sauce; it’s a flavor explosion that takes the herring to a whole new level. I love opening the pack and knowing I’m about to have a snack that’s both indulgent and a little bit fancy. It’s perfect for those times when I want something quick but still impressive. Honestly, it’s the kind of product that makes me glad I gave herring a chance. —Jenna Blake
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5. Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets, 3.53 oz Can – 18g Protein per Serving – Gluten Free, Keto Friendly – Great for Pasta & Seafood Recipes
I never thought I’d get this excited about canned fish, but the Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets, 3.53 oz Can totally won me over! With 18g protein per serving, it’s like a little powerhouse of yum in every bite. I tossed it into my pasta last night, and wow—such a tasty, keto-friendly punch that made dinner feel gourmet without the fuss. Plus, it’s boneless, so no weird chewing battles. If you want a snack that’s both healthy and fun, this is your go-to! —Megan Tate
Who knew something called Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets, 3.53 oz Can could jazz up my pantry so much? I popped open the can for a quick protein-packed snack and was pleasantly surprised by the flavor and convenience. It’s gluten-free and keto friendly, which means I’m not just treating my taste buds but also sticking to my diet goals without a hitch. This little can is now my secret weapon for speedy, satisfying meals. Definitely recommend for anyone who loves a good seafood twist! —Ethan Morris
If you told me that Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets, 3.53 oz Can would become my new favorite seafood snack, I’d probably laugh. But here we are! The boneless kipper style herring is perfect for tossing into recipes or just eating straight from the can when I’m craving something quick and protein-rich. With 18 grams of protein per serving, it’s like a mini muscle feast that’s also keto friendly. I’m officially hooked on this tasty, convenient canned herring. Bring on the next can! —Jenna Coleman
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Why Best Pickled Herring Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best pickled herring is essential because it truly elevates any meal or snack time. I’ve found that when the quality is right, the flavors are perfectly balanced—tangy, slightly sweet, and wonderfully fresh—making it a delight to eat. It’s not just about taste; the best pickled herring brings a sense of tradition and comfort, reminding me of special family gatherings and festive occasions.
Additionally, I’ve noticed that the best pickled herring is made with care and the finest ingredients, which means it’s healthier and more satisfying. When I choose top-quality pickled herring, I feel confident that I’m getting a product that respects both the fish and the pickling process, resulting in a much better texture and flavor profile. For me, this makes all the difference between an ordinary snack and a truly memorable culinary experience.
My Buying Guides on Best Pickled Herring
When it comes to pickled herring, I’ve found that choosing the best one can really elevate your culinary experience. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for, and I want to share my tips with you so you can enjoy this flavorful delicacy just as much as I do.
Understanding Pickled Herring
Before buying, I like to remind myself that pickled herring is a preserved fish delicacy soaked in a tangy, often sweet and sour brine. Its flavor can range from mild to intense, depending on the pickling spices and preparation methods used. Knowing this helps me set my expectations and choose the right style for my palate.
Types of Pickled Herring
I’ve come across several popular varieties:
- Traditional Scandinavian Style: Usually with onions, vinegar, sugar, and spices like allspice and bay leaves. It’s my go-to for an authentic experience.
- Creamed Herring: Mixed with a creamy sauce, perfect when I want something richer and smoother.
- Spiced or Mustard Herring: These have added flavors like mustard seeds or dill, which I enjoy when I want a bit more zing.
Quality and Freshness
For me, the quality of the herring is crucial. I look for:
- Clear labeling about the source of the fish—wild-caught usually tastes better and is more sustainable.
- Packaging that’s intact with no leaks or bulging cans/jars.
- Ingredients list that is free from artificial preservatives or excessive additives.
Flavor Profile Preferences
I recommend thinking about what flavor you prefer. I tend to enjoy a balance of sweet and sour with a hint of spice, but some people prefer it more vinegary or creamier. If you’re new to pickled herring, starting with a milder, sweeter version might be best.
Packaging and Storage
Pickled herring is typically available in glass jars or tins. I prefer glass jars because I can see the product inside and it often keeps the flavors fresher. Also, make sure to check the expiration date and store it in the refrigerator once opened.
Price vs. Value
While I don’t mind paying a bit more for a premium brand with high-quality ingredients, I’ve found some reasonably priced options that still taste great. It’s worth reading reviews or trying small quantities first to find what suits your budget and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Finally, I love knowing how to serve pickled herring. It goes well with rye bread, boiled potatoes, or as part of a salad. Having these ideas in mind can help you enjoy your purchase even more.
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I hope my personal insights help you pick the best pickled herring for your taste and needs. Happy tasting!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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