Israel Romero / Wednesday, February 11, 2026 / Categories: Blog The best anchovy in the world comes from the Cantabrian Sea (and the Italians knew it) The best anchovy in the world is born in the Cantabrian Sea (and the Italians knew it) cant The anchovy, scientifically known as Engraulis encrasicolus, was already being fished in the Mediterranean. But it wasn't the same. In the cold, restless waters of the Cantabrian Sea, this small fish develops a firmer, fattier, more flavorful flesh, perfect for slow, precise curing. The Italians discovered it at the end of the 19th century… and it was no coincidence. It was then that Santoña, a small fishing town in Cantabria, became the world epicenter of premium anchovy. Facing the sea, sheltered by mountains and with a century-old fishing tradition, Santoña combines unique conditions: cold waters, spring fishing (la costera), manual handling, and knowledge passed down through generations. Here, the anchovy is not manufactured: it is respected and protected. The result is an anchovy with a reddish-brown color, silky texture, deep and balanced flavor, without harshness. An anchovy that doesn't need to hide. That is why it is still considered today, by chefs and experts, the best in the world. At Made in Spain Gourmet we are committed to telling these stories and bringing to the world products that speak for themselves about Spanish gastronomic excellence. Cantabrian anchovies are one of those icons that represent us with pride in the international gourmet universe. In our selection you will find some of the most respected houses: Casa Santoña, with its 00 and 0 anchovies, plus versions in organic oil, an authentic benchmark of precision and cleanliness. Feel the Cantabrian Sea Revilla, with premium anchovies and its exquisite version in organic butter, pure delicacy. Feel the Cantabrian Sea Agromar, with its 00 anchovy, faithful to tradition and to the deepest Cantabrian flavor. Feel the Cantabrian Sea Exceptional products, born in a privileged and unique geographical area, that confirm a very simple idea: when the origin is extraordinary, the result is too. Because Made in Spain Gourmet is about sharing the best of Spain. And starting with an anchovy… is starting very high. Best Sellers Extra Virgin Olive Oil Excellence Koroneiki, Isbilya Red Vermouth, La Villa Arroz a banda, Just Married BUY NOW Do you enjoy our content? We strive to provide information we believe is interesting if you are a true Spanish Gourmet Lover, so we want to reward your loyalty with a $10 discount on your next purchase at Made in Spain Store by using the coupon LOVER. You'll receive that exclusive discount. *Purchases over €60 AUTHOR: Israel Romero, CEO of Made in Spain Gourmet. Made in Guijuelo: The true home of Iberian hams Discover our February deals on authentic Spanish flavors. Print 3 Rate this article: No rating Please login or register to post comments.