Caviar Isn't as Fancy as It Used to Be
Key Points:
- The surge in high-quality farmed caviar, particularly from China's Kaluga Queen, is making true sturgeon roe more accessible to consumers, including trendy brands and Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Overfishing in the Caspian Sea led to bans on wild sturgeon, but farmed sturgeon in China have matured enough to supply eggs, fueling this market growth.
- Marketing efforts target millennial women, especially "sober-curious" shoppers, positioning caviar as an affordable luxury for everyday celebrations like date nights or girls' nights.
- While many consumers appreciate the newfound accessibility of caviar, experts caution that ultra-cheap options may indicate poor quality or questionable sourcing.
- Blind tastings have found some direct-to-consumer caviar overly salty, but brands like Roe House, Cavi, and Quince received praise, with some buyers incorporating caviar into regular family meals.