What is caviar?
The name caviar is reserved for sturgeon eggs. You will find different caviars from different sturgeon species. Note that female sturgeon only reach breeding age after 7 years, which explains the rarity and price of the product. In the case of some species, harvesting can take up to 20 years.
How many species of sturgeon exist?
There is around 25 species of sturgeon around the world that is why it is important to know what you purchase.It is important to be familiar with the different species. Their common names and Latin names should be put on every caviar you buy. In order of fame, we find:
- Beluga Sturgeon - Latin name: Huso Huso (Made from fish over 20 years old)
- Danube sturgeon (Sterlet) - Latin name: Acipenser Ruthenus
- Oscietra sturgeon - Latin name: Acipenser gueldenstaedtii
- Siberian sturgeon - Latin name: Acipenser baerii
- Lake sturgeon - Latin name Acipenser oxyrinchus
- White sturgeon - Latin name: Acipenser transmontanus.
Which varieties of caviar can I order on the Oysters and Caviar website?
We have the Siberian, Oscietra and Albino (White Pearl Sturgeon, a crossbreed between Beluga and Sterlet) varieties on our site. Discover it all in our caviar collection under this link.
Why buy caviar that only comes from the farm, like Antonius?
Caviar, like many luxury products, is a victim of counterfeiting. By coming directly from the farm, only the producer has touched your caviar and put his CITES code on it. Learn how to read the CITES code in this article.
CAVIAR 101: CONSERVATION
How long can I keep my caviar for?
All our caviars are sold with a minimum shelf life of four weeks (found on the back of the tin). You can keep it in the coldest part of your refrigerator, but we advise you to eat your caviar quickly. Do not put it in the freezer.
Can I put the caviar back in the refrigerator if I haven’t finished it?
Yes, but you must consume it within 24 hours.
Are there the same sturgeon species as Antonius in Canada?
No, the sturgeon Accipenser Baeri (Siberian) and Acipenser gueldenstaedtii (Oscietra) are not wild or farmed in Canada.
CAVIAR 101: HOW TO SERVE IT
How to taste caviar for the first time?
Caviar can be intimidating for a novice. For this first tasting, we suggest that you taste the caviar plain, on the back of the hand between the thumb and forefinger, this method is called Caviar bump or “À la royale” in French. In contact with the skin for about thirty seconds, it will quickly warm up to release all its aromas and subtleties. Roll the roes over your tongue and palate. As with many tastings, the second bite reveals all those senses. We also offer caviar tastings to introduce groups to caviar, so don't hesitate contact us about this.
How to serve the caviar?
Present the caviar in its original tin on a bed of crushed ice, on top of a block of solid ice, or in a freezer chilled crystal dish. There are many different ways to serve caviar, but being creative always makes the experience of eating caviar divine.
Avec quoi déguster le caviar?
In a cocktail version, caviar goes very well with blinis, crème fraîche, red onions and chives.
The oyster makes a perfect natural setting for the caviar, place a hazelnut in the centre of the oyster and enjoy. You must try it with our Oysters Bomb, made with caviar and sea urchins.
As we said, seafood like sea urchins, lobster and shellfish in general go well with sturgeon roe. It is perfect for original Surf and Turf dishes such as beef tartare, carpaccio or tataki. The caviar will make a “WOW” effect.
Try it for breakfast on a boiled egg or a smoked salmon bagel.
The uses are endless, but the Caviar Bump remains our favourite at Oysters & Caviar.
Do I really need the mother of pearl spoon to enjoy caviar?
We recommend this, as the metal will oxidize the caviar and give it a bitter, metallic taste.
How much caviar do I need for entertaining?
For a cocktail, served as caviar bumps, we recommend:
- 30 grams for 1 to 2 people
- 50 grams for 2 to 4 people
- 125 grams for 4 to 8 people
To pair with your dishes, you will need
- 30 grams for 2 to 4 people
- 50 grams for 4 to 8 people
- 125 grams for 8 to 12 people
Do you have any other questions? Don't hesitate to send us a message. To shop for your caviar, visit our caviar collection!
