Sturgeon As the Source
All caviar comes from sturgeon, and while it's commonly referred to as “black caviar,” not all caviar is actually black in color. The variations in the hues of the sturgeon roe (unfertilized fish eggs which make up caviar) are different from one type of fish to the next. Among similar breeds and types of fish, the eggs can look very similar. The difference is more easily noticeable from one species to the next, with significant variations in color and tone.
Why Not Red Caviar?
The answer to that question is simple: true caviar is not red. If you’ve ever had “red caviar” you likely dined on roe in some variation from salmon, trout, or whitefish. While red salmon roe is the most common type of red roe, there are other fish that produce similar colors of roe. None of those fish, however, are sturgeon and only sturgeon can produce what is truly known as caviar.
Our caviar concierge, and caviarlogs are often nearly as fond of roe as they are of caviar, but there are differences in the flavor and nuances of the fish eggs that make a difference. Of course, the fundamental fact is that only sturgeon can produce caviar. If it’s from another type of fish, it should accurately be referred to as roe. While some types of roe have small delicate beads similar to caviar, even a greener-hued caviar or Golden Ossetra caviar will impart different hues - and flavors - than a red (or orange colored) roe.
Not All Caviar is Black
While some of the most incredible caviar varietals are black in color, such as Beluga, the elite grades of Ossetra, Kaluga and other fine caviars tend to be light, viridian green or warm auburn in hue. In fact, a lighter color of caviar in these varietals often denotes a batch of exceeding quality and craftsmanship. Much like wine grapes, each breed of caviar has its own look, feel and potential. We recommend trying them all to discover the right breed for you.
To help create your tasting list to experience a variety of colors of caviar, we’ve put together a few fine selections of Petrossian’s favorites. These caviars vary in color from each batch, grade, and even from each individual fish for their own unique nuances and variants that go beyond color. The different conditions and breeds of fish that contribute to the different color eggs also impart their own unique flavors to each caviar variety. While tasting a little bit of every type of caviar is a true taster’s dream, let’s get started with some key standouts to begin your journey through the colors of caviar.
A Select Few Shades
It’s no secret that our Special Reserve® Ossetra Caviar is the best of the best when it comes to caviar, but there’s more that makes this type and grade special than just its golden hue. Petrossian Special Reserve Ossetra takes this legendary breed to its full potential. Only the finest batches are even considered for this honor and very few prove to be worthy of the Special Reserve label of House Petrossian. These batches are rare, but when one matures beyond all expectations, it offers a sublime symphony of taste and texture.
With Ossetra, we look for a full, perfume-like essence, subtle characteristics of dried fruit and nuts, and a complex, buttery finish. This is a big, bold caviar, meant for true connoisseurs. It makes the perfect gift for the caviar-lover in your life, who doesn't shy away from flavor. As the world's most prestigious provider of caviar, we are given first choice from the finest farms around the world, and we use that privilege to uncover the unique batches that will become our Special Reserve. We take these rare gems, mature them to perfection and only release them to you at the peak of taste and texture.
From Gold to Green
Strong, but subtle, in shades of a golden brown with a hint of green in certain light. Supertasters will adore the rich tapestry of flavors in our Tsar Imperial® Daurenki Caviar, encountering unique flavors, such as port wine, that others might not be able to detect. This rich, satisfying caviar comes on strong, with plenty of buttery gush, but also has subtle undertones for you to discover.
Another type of caviar, Alberta, also offers caviar of a different hue. Ranging in color from a deep, rich amber to bright, viridian green, Alverta caviar is well known for its bold flavor and distinctive, semi-sweet finish. Because its flavor is so pronounced, Alverta is an ideal caviar for topping a blini with crème fraîche or working into salads, pastas and other dishes, as well as tasting on its own. Our Special Reserve® Alverta Caviar has been matured to perfection, providing a nutty flavor, soft lingering finish and a welcome surprise: a rare touch of sweetness amid the briny notes. This is a unique experience, even among our elite caviars.
This exquisite caviar is a feast for the eyes, the palate and the soul. It makes an ideal choice for the caviar lover who has "seen it all" and an exquisite gift for the person who has everything.
Are you ready to experience all the colors of caviar? Compare these incredible varietals side by side for an experience you and your guests will never forget. You may contact our caviarologists® at 1-800-828-9241 for personalized recommendations on Petrossian caviar and collections, and we’re happy to help find the ideal selection for you and your guests.