Caviar House's selection of Finest Caviars includes two essential species that are highly prized by caviar lovers: Beluga and Kaluga.
These two cousins produce the rarest caviars in the world, with rearing times averaging 18 years. Find out all you need to know about these two renowned caviar species, with their similarities and differences.
Origins of Kaluga and Beluga caviar
Kaluga caviar comes from the Huso dauricus sturgeon, a rare fish found mainly in the Amur river basins between Russia and China. Sometimes nicknamed ‘the river Beluga’, the Kaluga sturgeon is known for its impressive size, which can reach over 5 metres, and its weight of at least one tonne.
The caviar from this sturgeon is often compared to that from the Beluga because of its similar size, its roe and its creamy texture.
Beluga caviar, on the other hand, comes from the Beluga sturgeon (Huso huso), the largest of the sturgeons. This giant fish can measure over six metres in length and weigh up to a tonne. Native to the Caspian Sea, it is now one of the most protected species because of its rarity. Its caviar is among the most prestigious and sought-after, notably for its particularly large grains and unique texture on the palate.
Between grains and textures
One of the main differences between Kaluga caviar and Beluga caviar lies in the size of the grains. The grains of Kaluga caviar are slightly smaller than those of Beluga. However, they are still larger than those of other caviar varieties such as Osciètre or Baeri. Kaluga eggs are shiny and firm, with a colour that varies between light grey and golden, a subtle colour that heralds its delicate flavour.
Beluga caviar is famous for the impressive size of its grains, the largest of all caviar varieties (up to 4mm in diameter). Its roe varies from pearl-grey to black, and its texture is creamy and melts in the mouth, offering an incomparable taste experience.
In the mouth: tasting notes
Kaluga caviar is renowned for its mild, slightly buttery flavours. It has a fresh, subtle taste with hints of walnut and a touch of iodine, with perfectly balanced saltiness.
Beluga caviar, on the other hand, is appreciated for its more complex, rich flavours. It has a buttery, creamy taste, with intense notes of hazelnut and an unrivalled intensity of flavour. It is the epitome of exceptional caviar.
Conclusion: Which one to choose ?
The choice between Kaluga caviar and Beluga caviar essentially depends on individual preferences in terms of flavour and texture. If you're looking for a mild, subtle caviar, our Kaluga caviar could be an ideal choice. If you want to be surprised by a sharp caviar with intense notes and a beautiful aromatic complexity, choose our Beluga caviar from our The Finest range.