Caviar Types

From the legendary Beluga to sustainable Siberian, explore the world's premium caviar varieties.

Beluga

The undisputed king of caviar. Beluga sturgeon produce the largest eggs in the caviar world, ranging from 2-3mm in diameter. The flavor is rich, buttery, and impossibly smooth—often described as the most luxurious mouthfeel in all of gastronomy. True Beluga is increasingly rare due to overfishing and conservation protections, making it a truly special indulgence.

Price Tier$$$$
OriginCaspian Sea (Wild: Critically Endangered)
ColorLight gray to black
Flavor ProfileRich, buttery, creamy, ocean finish

Osetra

Often called the "golden caviar," Osetra offers a complex flavor profile that sophisticated palates adore. The medium-sized eggs have a distinctive nutty taste with hints of the sea. Russian Osetra is considered the most prestigious, with golden varieties commanding premium prices. The firm texture pops satisfyingly on the tongue.

Price Tier$$$
OriginCaspian Sea, Black Sea
ColorGolden brown to dark brown
Flavor ProfileComplex, nutty, rich, briny

Sevruga

The most abundant of the classic Caspian caviars, Sevruga offers incredible value without sacrificing authentic Caspian character. The eggs are smaller than Beluga or Osetra but pack intense, clean, briny flavor. It's an excellent choice for those seeking the true Caspian experience without the Beluga price tag.

Price Tier$$
OriginCaspian Sea
ColorSteel gray to dark gray
Flavor ProfileIntense, briny, clean, crisp

Kaluga

Often called "River Beluga," Kaluga is a hybrid that produces large, rich eggs similar to its more famous cousin. Originally from the Amur River region between Russia and China, Kaluga is now primarily farm-raised, making it more accessible while maintaining exceptional quality. The flavor is buttery and smooth with a slightly earthier finish than Beluga.

Price Tier$$$
OriginAmur River / Aquaculture
ColorGray to light brown
Flavor ProfileRich, buttery, smooth, slightly earthy

Amur

From the Amur River in the Russian Far East comes this increasingly popular variety. Amur caviar offers a distinctive, slightly sweet flavor that sets it apart from Caspian varieties. The dark brown to black eggs have a complex, lingering finish that appeals to adventurous caviar enthusiasts.

Price Tier$$
OriginAmur River / Aquaculture
ColorDark brown to black
Flavor ProfileSweet, nutty, complex, lingering

Siberian

The workhorse of modern caviar production. Siberian sturgeon adapts remarkably well to aquaculture, producing consistent, quality caviar with a clean, fresh flavor. It's the perfect entry point to premium caviar—approachable, reliable, and delicious. Excellent value makes it ideal for generous serving sizes.

Price Tier$
OriginSiberian Rivers / Aquaculture
ColorDark brown to black
Flavor ProfileClean, fresh, nutty, approachable

White Sturgeon

North America's contribution to the caviar world. Native to the Pacific Northwest, White Sturgeon produces caviar with a delicate, slightly sweet flavor. The golden to light brown eggs are prized for their refined character. Farmed primarily in California and Idaho, American White Sturgeon represents sustainable luxury.

Price Tier$$
OriginPacific Northwest / Aquaculture
ColorGolden to light brown
Flavor ProfileDelicate, sweet, clean, refined

Quick Comparison

TypeEgg SizeFlavorBest For
BelugaLarge (2-3mm)Buttery, creamySpecial occasions
OsetraMediumNutty, complexConnoisseurs
SevrugaSmall-mediumBriny, intenseValue seekers
KalugaLargeRich, butteryBeluga alternative
SiberianMediumClean, freshEveryday luxury