Imperial Osetra Caviar

 

Imperial Osetra caviar, the epitome of opulence, showcases a radiant golden sheen and medium-sized pearls, evoking the grandeur of historic Iranian Caspian Sea origins when wild caviar was abundant. This exquisite roe enchants with a complex flavor profile, featuring a smooth and creamy top note, complemented by delightful nutty undertones. Sustainably farm-raised in China, each pearl reflects the highest standard of Osetra caviar excellence, carrying the legacy of a storied past into the contemporary world of fine caviar.

Paramount Caviar SKU	115
Status	Sustainably Farm Raised
Common Name	Osetra Sturgeon / Ossetra Sturgeon
Latin Name	Acipenser gueldenstaedtii
Color	Light silvery-olive green
Roe Size	Medium
Flavor Profile	A complex flavor profile defined by creamy top notes and a pronounced nutty undertone
Sustainably Farm Raised In	China

 

Species Details

 

The Osetra sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii) is one of history’s most celebrated sturgeon species, renowned for producing caviar prized by royalty and connoisseurs alike. Traditionally found in the Caspian Sea and Black Sea, it developed the distinctive characteristics that define authentic Osetra caviar. Today, these sturgeon are sustainably farm-raised in pristine conditions, taking over 10 years to reach maturity and growing up to 4 feet in length and around 150 pounds. The resulting caviar offers complex nutty flavors and exceptional quality, maintaining Osetra’s reputation as a benchmark for luxury caviar. Thanks to careful aquaculture, this legendary roe continues to enchant epicureans while protecting wild populations.

Quality Indicators

 

Appearance of Imperial Osetra Caviar

With strict in house grading standards, Imperial Osetra caviar features medium-large pearls measuring 2.8–3.1mm with exceptional consistency, reflecting the highest grading standards. Its radiant golden sheen ranges from light gold to vivid viridian green, a rare hue found in only about 10% of Osetra production. Each pearl exhibits a natural pearlescent luster and translucence, signaling peak freshness and expert processing. Well-separated, substantial pearls create an impressive visual presence, emphasizing the caviar’s refined quality. This Imperial grade represents the pinnacle of Osetra excellence through meticulous selection and careful handling.

Texture of Imperial Osetra Caviar

Imperial Osetra offers a firm yet delicate texture offering a graceful pop that unveils its layers of flavor. A silky, creamy mouthfeel envelops the palate, enhanced—not overshadowed—by delicate malossol salting. Born of more than a decade of careful cultivation and expert craftsmanship, this balance of structure and softness defines true Osetra elegance. Each taste is an unforgettable expression of caviar perfection.

Flavor Profile of Imperial Osetra Caviar

Imperial Osetra enchants with a luxurious flavor experience, beginning with a buttery richness that speaks to its storied heritage. Layer by layer, the palate discovers elegant notes of hazelnut, delicate cream, and a whisper of oceanic minerality, each unfolding with perfect harmony. This intricate progression captures the essence of true Osetra—rich nuttiness giving way to velvety depth and finishing with refined, mineral elegance. The clean, lingering finish leaves no trace of bitterness, only the memory of extraordinary balance and finesse. Sustainably raised, this legendary caviar continues to deliver the timeless indulgence that has captivated discerning palates for generations.

Storage and Serving Guide

 

How to Serve Your Caviar & Roe

Step 1: Proper Storage & Temperature

Keep your caviar and roe refrigerated at 28°F to 32°F until you're ready to serve. Remove from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving to acclimate to the ambient temperature. Caviar and roe should be served chilled but not ice-cold, as extreme cold mutes the delicate flavors.

Step 2: Choose the Right Serving Vessel

Use non-metallic serving spoons to prevent a metallic taste from clashing with your caviar and roe. Mother-of-pearl, bone, or plastic spoons are the best options. Serve in small glass or ceramic bowls nested over crushed ice to maintain a safe temperature. If you don't have serving bowls, you may place the opened caviar tins in a bowl of crushed ice. The tins have food-safe varnish that prevents a metallic taste.

Step 3: Portion Appropriately

Plan for ½-1 ounce per person as an appetizer with other foods so all guests can have "a taste." For a full caviar portion, serve 1 ounce per person. Use a gentle touch when portioning and never press or crush the delicate pearls.

Step 4: Select Complementary Accompaniments

Serve with items that complement without overpowering the mild, nuanced flavors. We recommend:

• Blinis or toast points (unsalted)
• Crème fraîche, light sour cream, or clotted cream
• Champagne, vodka, or crisp white wines

Pro-Tip: Skip the chives, red onions, chopped eggs, and other accompaniments in a traditional caviar service. These traditional accompaniments were introduced when preservation methods required heavily salting the caviar. With today's advanced refrigeration methods, caviar does not need to be over-salted and you can enjoy the caviar's true flavor profiles. 

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Immediately

Present your caviar and roe just before serving. Invite your guests to take small portions and savor slowly on the palate to appreciate complex flavors and texture. Enjoy within 2 hours of opening and never leave at room temperature for extended periods.

Pairings

 

Elevate Imperial Osetra with iconic pairings like Dom Pérignon or Krug, their effervescence amplifying the caviar’s nutty elegance. For a timeless tradition, savor it alongside perfectly chilled Russian vodka, honoring its royal legacy. Present it simply yet luxuriously—on warm blinis with rich crème fraîche, and served only with non-metallic spoons to preserve the caviar’s pure flavor.

 

General Information

• Preparation	Our caviar is lightly salted (malossol) with 3.5% salt.
  Packaging	Packed in vacuum-sealed, metal tins that are protected inside with a special food-grade varnish.
  Shipping and Delivery	Nationwide Shipping: Paramount Caviar ships all caviar across the United States with overnight shipping services and enough ice and materials to withstand up to 2 days of shipping outside of refrigeration.  Hand Delivery: Hand delivery is available to customers residing in Manhattan. All caviar and perishables are delivered with ice.  In-Store Pickup: In-Store pickup is available and all caviar is prepared and ready for pickup with ice.
  Shelf Life (Refrigerated)	Our caviar lasts for up 3 weeks in a standard household refrigerator with its original, unopened seal. Once the caviar tin has been opened, all remaining caviar should be consumed within 3 days.  Do not freeze your caviar. Freezing your caviar will cause the caviar to lose its integrity.
  Storage Type	Keep refrigerated at 33-40°F (0-4°C). We recommend storing the caviar in the back of the refrigerator as it will be less susceptible to temperature fluctuations.
  Allergy and Cautionary Information	Contains fish (sturgeon). Consuming raw or unpasteurized seafood may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.