Beluga, Kaluga, Ossetra and Amur are four of the most sought-after sturgeon caviars in the world. They differ in pearl size, colour, texture and taste, and in price. This guide compares them side by side, so you can choose the right caviar for your table, your occasion or your gift.
Quick comparison
| Beluga | Kaluga | Ossetra | Amur | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sturgeon | Huso huso | Huso dauricus | Acipenser gueldenstaedtii | Acipenser schrenckii |
| Pearl size | 3–4 mm | 3–3.5 mm | Medium | 2.8–3.2 mm |
| Colour | Anthracite to steel grey | Hazelnut to deep dark brown | Dark brown to grey-black with a golden undertone | Golden brown to gold |
| Texture | Soft, creamy, melts in the mouth | Firm | Medium-firm | Medium to firm, with a pleasant bite |
| Taste | Delicate, buttery, nutty | Complex, with a long umami finish | Distinctly nutty, rich aroma | Rich and buttery, notes of roasted almond |
| Best for | The ultimate treat | Beluga lovers, chefs | Classic caviar taste | Everyday luxury, first-timers |
| Price, 30 g | from $165 | from $61 | from $61 | from $61 |
Beluga caviar: the most prized caviar in the world
Beluga caviar comes from the Huso huso, the largest fish in the sturgeon family. The sturgeon takes many years to mature, which makes its caviar rare and highly valued.
The pearls are the largest of the four, 3–4 mm, in shades from anthracite to steel grey. They are soft and delicate, with a creamy texture that melts in the mouth and a buttery, gently nutty taste.
Choose beluga if you want the most iconic caviar for a milestone celebration or a luxury gift. It is best on its own, from a non-metal spoon, with a glass of Champagne.
Kaluga caviar: the closest alternative to beluga
Kaluga caviar comes from the Huso dauricus, a close relative of the beluga. Our Kaluga comes from sturgeon aged over 15 years.
The pearls are large, 3–3.5 mm, from hazelnut to deep dark brown. They are firm, with an elegant, complex taste and a long umami finish.
Choose Kaluga if you love large pearls and a bold, refined flavour, but want a more accessible price than beluga. It is a favourite of chefs and works well both on its own and in dishes.
Ossetra caviar: the connoisseur's classic
Ossetra caviar comes from the Russian sturgeon, Acipenser gueldenstaedtii. It is one of the most traditional caviars and is loved for its balanced, recognisable taste.
The medium-sized pearls range from dark brown to grey-black, with a golden undertone. Ossetra has a distinctly nutty flavour and a rich aroma. Our Ossetra is free from preservatives.
Choose Ossetra if you want the classic caviar experience. It is versatile: perfect on blini with crème fraîche, with new potatoes, or simply from the tin.
Amur caviar: rich flavour, everyday luxury
Amur caviar comes from the Acipenser schrenckii sturgeon, harvested at 9 to 10 years of age.
The pearls are 2.8–3.2 mm, in beautiful golden brown to gold tones. They have a medium to firm texture with a pleasant bite, and a rich, elegant taste with notes of roasted almond, butter and a hint of egg yolk.
Choose Amur if you want a rich, buttery caviar for regular enjoyment, or a great first caviar for someone new to it.
Which caviar should you choose?
- For a once-in-a-lifetime treat: Beluga.
- For large pearls at a better price: Kaluga.
- For the classic caviar taste: Ossetra.
- For your first caviar or everyday luxury: Amur.
- For a gift: a tasting set, so the recipient can compare. See our Caviar Gift Guide 2026.
The best way to find your favourite is to taste them side by side. The Trio Caviar Set, 6 x 30 g includes Kaluga, Ossetra and Amur, two tins of each. You can also take our five-question Caviar Quiz to get a personal match.
How to serve and taste caviar
- Serve it well chilled, straight from the fridge.
- Use a mother-of-pearl, glass or ceramic spoon. Metal can affect the taste.
- Taste the first spoon on its own: let the pearls rest on your tongue, then press them gently against the roof of your mouth.
- Then try it on warm blini with a little crème fraîche.
- Plan about 15–30 g per person as an appetizer.
For more ideas, read 30 signature ways to serve and enjoy sturgeon caviar.
FAQ
What is the difference between Beluga and Kaluga caviar?
Both come from closely related sturgeon and have large pearls. Beluga is softer and creamier, with grey tones. Kaluga is firmer, with brown tones and a longer umami finish, and it is more affordable.
Is Ossetra better than Kaluga?
Neither is better; they are different. Ossetra has medium pearls and a classic nutty taste. Kaluga has larger, firmer pearls and a bolder, more complex flavour.
What is the best caviar for beginners?
Amur or Ossetra. Both have a rich, approachable taste and are a good introduction to sturgeon caviar. A tasting set is even better, because it lets you compare.
Which caviar is the most expensive?
Beluga is the most expensive of the four, because the Huso huso sturgeon matures slowly and its caviar is rare.
Where can I buy Beluga, Kaluga, Ossetra and Amur caviar in Canada?
All four are available at Concord Caviar, delivered chilled across Canada. Browse our full sturgeon caviar collection or see delivery details on our shipping page.