CAVIAR INFO

What is caviar?

Specifically, caviar is the roe of the sturgeon fish – and only the sturgeon. Though some mislabel items such as salmon roe “Salmon Caviar”, only sturgeon roe is technically caviar.

How long will caviar last?

Petrossian caviar is always packed to order. Fresh caviar should be refrigerated until served, stored preferably in the coolest part of your refrigerator. Unopened, its quality is maintained for four weeks. Once opened, caviar should be consumed on that occasion.

What is a typical portion size of caviar?

The ideal serving is fifty grams per person. You can split that 50 gram tin between two people for an intimate tasting. 125 grams is ideal for two people, while four people could share 125 grams for a small tasting.

What type of caviar is the best?

First and foremost, what you like is a matter of taste and personal choice. No matter which caviar you choose, you can be assured your taste buds will not be disappointed. Many caviar enthusiasts prefer the Ossetra for its wonderfully complex taste. Some connoisseurs appreciate Sevruga for its rich, intense flavor. How will you know which is your favorite? We recommend trying as many types of caviar as possible!

What is the difference between the grades?

Most Petrossian caviar comes in three grades - Classic, Royal, and Tsar Imperial. Difference in taste between the three grades is distinguishable only to the most established caviar palate. The biggest difference between the grades is the size and color of the caviar bead - the more prestigious Tsar Imperial has a large, bold pearl, while the Royal and Classic grades typically have slightly smaller pearls with a darker shade.

What is malossol?

The word malossol literally means "little salt." It is a reference to the caviar curing process, where in the past, lesser grades of caviar had to use excessive amounts of salt to cover the poor quality of the caviar itself. Though technological advances have made "malossol" somewhat outdated, rest assured all Petrossian caviar fits the definition of malossol, as our premium caviar features salt contents between 2.5 and 4 percent.

How should I serve caviar?

A special presentoir designed by Petrossian showcases our caviar with a truly elegant presentation. So as not to break the eggs, caviar should be spooned carefully onto lightly toasted bread or directly in the mouth with Petrossian spoons - not metal, which can alter the taste. Serve fresh, premium quality Petrossian caviar in its original perfection - do not sprinkle with lemon or serve with chopped egg, onion, or sour cream. Save these garnishes for inferior grades of caviar.

Why do I need a special spoon for serving caviar?

Caviar is such a delicate substance, even serving with a metallic spoon can impart an off taste into the precious beads. That's why we recommend serving with our mother-of-pearl spoons, a natural material that does not alter the flavor of the caviar. In a pinch, you can also use plastic spoons for serving.

Can caviar be frozen?

Petrossian caviar should never be placed in the freezer. Freezing caviar harms the integrity of the eggs, causing a premature breakdown of the egg's walls.

Return to the Caviar Page

Your Cart

0 items
Have a question? See our FAQs