Six SEASONS caviar tins on ice

Caviar 101: How to Choose, Serve and Enjoy Caviar

SEASONS Osetra Classic CaviarSEASONS Kaluga Hybrid CaviarSEASONS Amur Sturgeon CaviarSEASONS Siberian Osetra CaviarSEASONS Golden Osetra CaviarSEASONS Royal Beluga Caviar

Caviar doesn't need to be intimidating. With a few simple rules, anyone can choose, serve and enjoy it like a pro. Here's everything you need to know.

1. Choosing your caviar

Every variety has its own character. The main differences are pearl size, texture and flavor:

Osetra ClassicRefined and buttery, with firm, medium-sized pearls and delicate nutty notes. A perfect first caviar.
Kaluga HybridLarge, glossy pearls with a rich, buttery flavor and a smooth finish.
Amur SturgeonElegant and well-balanced, with a silky texture and subtle nutty character.
Siberian OsetraDelicate and buttery, with a clean, smooth finish.
Golden OsetraRare golden pearls with an exceptionally rich flavor.
Royal BelugaOur most exclusive caviar, with exceptionally large pearls.
Not sure where to start? Try a gift set with several varieties side by side — it's the easiest way to find your favorite.

2. How much to buy

A quick guide for caviar served as an appetizer:

0.5 oz1 person · a tasting
1 oz1–2 people
1.75 oz (50 g)2–3 people
3.5 oz (100 g)4–6 people
8 oz10–14 people
1 lb20–28 people

Planning caviar as the star of the table? Allow about 1 oz per person.

3. How to serve it

  • Keep it cold. Keep the tin refrigerated until serving, then set it on crushed ice.
  • Open right before serving. Caviar tastes best freshly opened.
  • Use the right spoon. Mother-of-pearl, bone, wood or glass. Metal spoons (especially silver) can give caviar a metallic taste.
  • Don't stir or press the pearls. Lift gently from the top so the pearls stay whole.

4. How to taste it

Try the first spoonful on its own. Place a small amount on the back of your hand or on the spoon, let it rest on your tongue, then gently press the pearls against the roof of your mouth. Notice the texture, the saltiness and the finish — every variety is different.

5. Classic ways to enjoy it

  • On blini with a little crème fraîche
  • On lightly toasted brioche or a plain cracker
  • With soft scrambled eggs
  • On a boiled new potato with sour cream

Looking for more ideas? Read What goes with caviar.

6. Storing caviar

38°F (3°C)or below, in the coldest part of the fridge
Never freezefreezing damages the delicate pearls
4 daysto enjoy once opened

Refrigerate caviar immediately upon arrival.

Explore our caviar →Caviar gift sets →

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