Farmed Caviar - Learn About the Finest Farm-Raised Roe

Caviar Director

farmed caviar

Whether it originates from Italy, Israel, or the United States, much of the world’s finest true caviar available today is farm-raised. After persistent overfishing and smuggling led to significantly diminished sturgeon populations in the Caspian Sea and Black Sea basin, the United States banned the import of Caspian and Black Sea basin Beluga caviar in 2005. This led to an increase in interest surrounding farmed caviars— today, many varieties of sturgeon are considered to be “threatened”, “endangered,” or “critically endangered” in the wild, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Among dozens of threatened sturgeon varities, the Russian sturgeon (from which Osetra caviar is harvested), the Beluga, and the Siberian sturgeon are prized for their roe.

In order to continue supplying the finest caviars in the world without negatively impacting the natural environments of these sturgeons, a variety of countries have introduced sustainable farms and fisheries. Not only do these sustainable farms take great care to mimic the natural environment of each sturgeon, providing them with an ideal space and diet to support growth, but many farms have begun cross-breeding desirable sturgeons, yielding hybrids that produce exquisite new additions to the caviar marketplace. Khavyar’s Beluga Siberian caviar, for instance, boasts all the rich, full flavor of Huso Huso roe, in spite of being farm-raised in Italy as a hybrid breed. This allows the highly prized characteristics of Beluga caviar to be passed down to future generations without negatively impacting Beluga in the wild. Similarly, Khavyar’s Imperial Prime caviar is harvested from a hybrid breed that combines the freshwater Kaluga sturgeon with the Japanese sturgeon to create a caviar with very large pearls and a striking mélange of golden-amber hues.

While each source of farmed caviar is different, all Khavyar suppliers are committed to upholding an unparalleled level of quality and sustainability. In Israel, for instance, sturgeon are raised in the crystalline waters of Dan Springs, where mountaintop snow melts into the Jordan River to feed the sturgeon ponds. These sturgeons are raised with the utmost care, and are fed an all-natural assortment of plants and proteins that support their roe. In Italy, water temperature is monitored around-the-clock to ensure all Giaveri caviar surpasses even the highest standards. Though farm-raising sturgeon has only come into popularity more recently, it has quickly become the gold standard in the industry, both for its environmental responsiveness and the caviar itself.  

Today’s emphasis on farmed sturgeon caviar even allows domestic customers to source world-class varieties of caviar from within their own country. Our American Siberian caviar, for instance, offers deep charcoal-colored, medium-sized roe with a taste reminiscent of a fine Sevruga, all from within farms in the United States. Indeed, this roe is harvested from true Siberian sturgeon stock that are raised and maintained within the country.

When purchasing sturgeon caviar, it’s essential to confirm that it is sustainably raised and harvested. While some import and export bans have been lifted, a great many sturgeon populations are still critically threatened. By purchasing farm-raised sturgeon caviar, you can ensure you are contributing to environmentally responsible practices while still receiving the finest available sturgeon roe.

Read more →

Destination Guide: Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Adaline Colton

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

An event truly unlike any other, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta offers guests the chance to see over 500 balloons take flight in the clear blue skies of New Mexico. Now in its 46th year, the event is heralded internationally as a spectacular display of hot air balloon feats, firework displays, competitive events, and more. To enjoy this unparalleled event in person, here’s what you’ll need to know about making the trip to the Duke City.

 

When to go

Occurring annually in October, the 46th Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta will be held from October 7-15, 2017. Each day offers a different schedule of events, so be sure to check online to decide which events spark your interest. Each day’s events kick off at 5:45 A.M., showcasing brilliant laser light shows against the wide-open Albuquerque sky— but those who aren’t early risers can rest easy knowing that these displays repeat at nightfall, around 7:45 P.M.

 

How to get there

Regardless of when you plan to arrive on-site, be sure to factor in traffic. The grounds open around 4:30 A.M. and begin to fill up shortly afterwards, meaning that the surrounding area will be abuzz with activity. Combination event and transportation tickets can be purchased in advance, which provide you with the option of using the local train and a shuttle. Similarly, shuttle services from the surrounding parking areas are available for those with a car in tow. If you’re staying nearby, however, the best option may be to bike— not only is there a complimentary bike valet service at the Fiesta, but some local hotels (such as Los Poblanos, below) offer complimentary bike rentals with your lodging.

 

What to do

While there are plenty of events to enjoy throughout the week, including several stages that will offer revolving acts of musical entertainment, there’s one type of balloon display that is truly unmissable: the mass ascensions. These group ascensions feature hundreds of balloons taking to the sky at once in a spectacular display. There are four mass ascensions to behold throughout the Fiesta, excluding the special “Flight of the Nations Mid-Week Mass Ascension”, which showcases balloons from 20 different countries, with each pilot carrying a flag. Equally essential are the Balloon Glow events at dusk, wherein ballooners fire up their burners on tethered balloons, lighting the sky with an enthralling glow.

 

Beyond the ascensions and Balloon Glow events, balloonists will engage in a variety of agility tasks, including ring-toss competitions from great aerial heights. For those not content to watch from the ground, balloon rides are of course available to be booked. For those who prefer to stay earthbound, there are also 300 acres of vendors to peruse, offering everything from local art to food to limited-edition collectibles.

 

Looking to upgrade your Fiesta experience? Chasers’ Club or the Gondola Club tickets can offer you premium gated viewing locations, private dining experiences onsite, and a host of other exclusive experiences at the park.

 

Where to stay

For the full experience of all New Mexico has to offer, book a room in Los Poblanos, a bucolic bed-and-breakfast situated on 25 acres of lavender fields. Accented by woodcarvings, ironwork, and murals created by some of New Mexico’s most influential artists of the 20th century, the inn itself is as enchanting as the exquisite gardens and organic farms surrounding it. Guests can opt to stay in suites in the property’s 1930s dairy style buildings, surrounded by traditional white stucco walls, wood-burning fireplaces, and private patios that overlook the lotus ponds and gardens, or stay farther afield (literally) in the Field Suites, which offer up to 950 square feet of living space and boast breathtaking views of the Sandia Mountains. The inn’s restaurant redefines “farm to table,” offering seasonal delicacies grown just steps away.

 

For a more glamorous affair, opt for the Hotel Andaluz’s Zsa Zsa penthouse, so named for Zsa Zsa Gabor who once spent a night on the premises— fitted with a full-size dining room, a large fireplace, and an extravagant copper soaking tub worthy of the star herself.

Read more →

Caviar Hors Doeuvres for Your Emmys Watch Party

Caviar Director

Caviar Hors Doeuvres for Your Emmys Watch Party

Image via Martha Stewart

On September 17, many of us will be gathering together to watch a parade of stars grace the red carpet on their way to the 69th Emmy Awards. What better time than during the awards to offer a bit of Hollywood-worthy indulgence to your guests? Echo the on-screen luxury with a few bottles of Champagne and, of course, some extra-enticing caviar hors d’oeuvres befitting even the most glamorous celebrities.

 

Caviar Potato Chips With Lemon Cream

We’ve all indulged in some potato chip snacking while watching television, but an occasion like the Emmys calls for a serious upgrade. In this recipe, crème fraîche with a hint of fresh lemon zest adheres luminescent salmon roe (or your personal favorite variety of caviar) to each potato chip, making for a most indulgent twist on this classic bite. Looking for an even more unexpected variation? This amuse-bouche can also be made using sweet potato chips and whipped goat cheese for a more autumnal presentation.

 

Makes 8-12 servings

 

¼ cup crème fraîche or sour cream
¾ teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
4 ounces Salmon roe or other caviar
Potato chips (thicker, kettle-cooked varieties are best)

Stir together the crème fraîche or sour cream and the fresh lemon zest. Arrange each chip on a platter and dot with crème fraîche mixture. Top with roe or caviar.

 

Parmesan Crisps With Caviar

This creative party food features one of our favorite entertaining tricks— aesthetically pleasing, deceptively simple parmesan crisps made in the oven. The final assembled treat juxtaposes architectural angles and enticing caviar pearls, creating a striking presentation worthy of an evening affair. We suggest using Siberian Gold caviar to complement the notes of Parmesan.

 

Makes about 8

 

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 ounce caviar
1/4 cup crème fraîche

 

Preheat an oven’s broiler to 480-500 degrees. Line a baking sheet with either parchment paper or a nonstick silicone baking mat. Drop about 1 tablespoon of the shredded Parmesan onto the baking sheets into small mounds. Bake 5 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before loosening with a spatula. Once room-temperature, top each Parmesan round with a dollop of crème fraîche and caviar.

 

Blini With Quail Eggs And Caviar

What’s more luxurious than quail eggs? Quail eggs and rainbow trout caviar. Invite your guests to sample this elevated variation on two types of eggs as the Emmy Awards are announced— it’ll be an unforgettable bite. While it’s a bit more labor intensive, the final result (and the reactions of all who eat them) will be well worth it.

 

Makes 4 dozen


6 Tablespoons fresh tarragon, coarsely chopped, plus extra for garnish
Coarse salt
6 scallions, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
1/2 cup crème fraîche
2 dozen quail eggs
Blini, warmed in a 350-degree oven before assembling
2 ounces trout or salmon roe

 

Prepare an ice bath and set aside. Bring a small saucepan of water to a boil with 1 teaspoon salt. Add the scallions, cooking just until they’re bright green and just tender (about 1 1/2 minutes). Add tarragon leaves, and cook until bright green (about 20 seconds). Immediately transfer scallions and tarragon to the ice-water bath to preserve color. Let cool completely.


Drain scallions and tarragon, then squeeze dry in a clean kitchen towel. Transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Add mustard and pulse again. With machine running, slowly add the oil in a steady stream. Process the mixture until smooth and thickened, about 1 minute. Transfer to a small bowl and stir in the crème fraîche. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve (this can be made up to 2 days ahead.)


Prepare another ice bath and set aside. Place a dozen eggs in a saucepan large enough to hold them in a single layer and cover with 2 inches of cold water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer eggs to the ice-water bath and allow to cool. Meanwhile, repeat with remaining eggs. Once cool enough to handle, peel the eggs, dipping them in cold water if needed to remove shell pieces. (These can be refrigerated in an airtight container overnight.)


Pick 4 dozen small leaf clusters from remaining tarragon sprigs and set aside as a garnish. Halve the eggs lengthwise. Arrange blini on a platter. Spoon 1/2 teaspoon sauce in center of blini. Top each with half an egg, 1/4 teaspoon roe, and a tarragon cluster. Serve.

Read more →

Destination Guide: Oktoberfest

Caviar Director

 

Destination Guide: Oktoberfest

Contrary to what you might surmise from the name, Munich’s world-famous Oktoberfest celebration actually takes place largely in September. To make the most of this time-honored tradition, be sure head to Munich mid-month: this year’s festival begins September 16 and runs through October 3 (a date marked by a national holiday that celebrates the unification of East and West Germany). Here’s how to get the most out of your trip, whether you’ve been planning a voyage to this one-of-a-kind event for years or you’re new to the custom.

 

When to go

While Oktoberfest runs for about three weeks, the program of events will vary throughout that time— so it’s best to plan ahead. The festival commences with a grand opening parade featuring intricately costumed groups, elaborate floats, and plenty of horse-led carriages. If catching the parade scene isn’t a priority for you, feel free to arrive later on in the fest when live music acts are scheduled. Once you’ve decided which week to attend, be sure to show up bright and early at the fairgrounds— believe it or not, Oktoberfest commences at 9 A.M. on weekends (10 A.M. on weekdays). While that may seem early for some, rest assured that the tents fill up quickly and there will likely be a large crowd that arrived even earlier.

 

Getting there

Oktoberfest is held in Munich’s 103-acre Theresienwiese (simply called Wiesn for those in the know). It’s been held on this spot for 200 years, but newcomers will find it to be very conveniently located and reachable by U-bahn (subway). Of course, you may opt for a car to retrieve you afterwards— after a long day of imbibing the beer selection Munich has to offer, even a short trip using public transportation may seem taxing.

 

Where to stay

First and foremost, book your hotel early: Munich’s coveted hotels will fill up quickly so it’s best to plan your lodging as far in advance as possible to avoid dwindling options. Though you’ll be spending most of your time at the fest, it’s worth looking into what some of the more elevated hotels in Munich can offer— lodgings that cater to a more sophisticated clientele can be your ticket to anything from sought-after reserved seats in the Oktoberfest tents to special events during the fest. Staying too close to the fairgrounds can leave you feeling surrounded by tourists, but luckily Munich’s transportation system is so accessible that location becomes less of an issue. Staying just one subway stop away opens you up to the Sofitel Munich Bayerpost Hotel, housed in a historically-protected former post office. This hotel boasts incredible spa amenities (in case you need to give your body a break from all the beverages) and French-Bavarian dining options, as well as rooms that balance the building’s history with modern furnishings and features. If you skew more toward the high-design set, book a room in the hip Flushing Meadows Hotel & Bar— an eclectic, modern spot with a youthful rooftop bar worthy of any great metropolis, which offers private terraces that face the Alps, and unique rooms designed in collaboration with artists and celebrities.

 

What to bring

It’s common for tourists and locals alike to don traditional Bavarian garb when attending Oktoberfest— for men, that involves leather shorts (lederhosen), while women wear the iconic dirndl (a laced-up bodice and full skirt). That being said, many attendees arrive in more casual fare, which is equally acceptable— just be sure you’ve left your finest jet-setting attire at home, as a serious quantity of beer tends to be spilled throughout the course of the fest. Keep accessories to a minimum for the same reason (and also because it’s easy for bags and other items to get misplaced— especially as you move from tent to tent throughout the day). Arriving with the bare necessities is best— ensure you have plenty of cash, as each stein can cost upwards of 10 Euro, and tipping is the best way to receive consistent service from the often-harried waitresses.

 

How to drink

Oktoberfest is composed of several large tents, each providing a slightly different variation on the overall drinking experience. Since the tents fill up so quickly and tend to stay that way, aim for your top-choice tent at the beginning of the fest, and only stray from your bench seat if you’re willing to wait for another one (you’ll only be served if seated, so finding another space in a different tent is easier said than done). Every beer sold at Oktoberfest comes from a local Munich brewery, and each one is sold by the liter— there are no smaller orders, so be prepared to pace yourself and sip slowly. If you prefer to ease into your day of marathon drinking, try ordering a Radler— a refreshing half-beer, half-lemonade traditional beverage that’s perfect for staying cool. Beyond these basic tips, just remember to brush up on your accent and say “Prost” (German for cheers) when clinking steins— after a few rounds, you may find you’ve picked up the words to a traditional German drinking song, too.

 

Though each tent has a slightly different aesthetic and atmosphere, the overall setup is the same. We suggest starting off in the Schottenhamel tent— not only is this the main spot, where the festival’s first keg is tapped each year, but it boasts a youthful, infectiously fun party atmosphere throughout the duration of the fest. Dancing is common in this tent, and you’re sure to make a few friends here. If you’re in search of a more subdued style, hope for a coveted seat at the Marstall tent— considerably smaller in size, it has a more personal, sophisticated atmosphere to match.

 

What to do

Though famous for its drinking culture, Oktoberfest is more than just beer— it’s also a family-oriented festival with music, carnival rides, and other attractions. While spinning rides like the Teufelsrad (“Devil’s Wheel”) may not appeal to the experienced drinker, it makes sense to take a lap around the huge festival grounds and see all that’s on offer— the Ferris wheel, for instance, showcases breathtaking views of the city. Break for lunch to enjoy a roast chicken, sausages, giant pretzels, or even roasted ox to offset all that beer intake. Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy traditional varieties of gingerbread, as well as a variety of German pastries. There’s even a wine tent— though we suspect many attendees will choose to stick with one type of alcohol for the duration.

 

After the fest

Upon leaving the fairgrounds, you may find you’re tired out from the day’s events— but there’s still plenty of Munich to explore. The city is beloved for its markets, culture, and food alike. After resting up and re-hydrating a bit, treat yourself to a relaxing dinner, stroll along the Eisbach river, and enjoy all that Munich has to offer.

Read more →

American Sturgeon Caviar - Shipped Right to Your Door

Adaline Colton

Sturgeons have been farmed in North America for caviar production since 1994. Today, many varieties of sturgeons are sustainably farm-raised in the United States in an effort to satisfy demand for the luxury of fine caviar while also remaining environmentally responsible. By not contributing to wild fishing of sturgeons in the Caspian Sea region, where overfishing has put sturgeons in a population nosedive, these American sturgeon farms are opting to take an environmentally friendly route to producing fine, gourmet caviar.

There are currently 8 known species of American sturgeon, making their homes throughout the United States from Mississippi River basins, to the rivers of Idaho and Montana, to the San Francisco Bay Estuary, and beyond. Hackleback caviar, harvested from Shovelnose sturgeons that originate in Illinois and Kentucky, is a favorite variety owing to its deep black pearls and dry, accessible flavor. In addition to U.S.-based farms raising some native varieties of sturgeons, recent years have found these farms raising non-native varieties as well, including the Siberian sturgeon, in an effort to sustainably and responsibly raise the most desirable imported sturgeons here in the United States in environments created specifically to mimic their foreign waters.

American sturgeons have been part of this country’s history since time immemorial. The natives of North America were known for fishing sturgeons as a source of both meat and roe, a practice that later caught on with European settlers. It is even documented that George Washington fished sturgeon for sport in the Potomac River in the 1700s. Indeed, the story of America is significantly intertwined with that of domestic sturgeons.

Today, you can buy American sturgeon caviar online— American caviar is enjoyed both throughout the country and abroad as a luxury product. In fact, some varieties are becoming widely sought-after due to their rich flavor profiles that mimic those of Sevruga caviars. While American sturgeon caviar remains a lesser-known cousin to those imported from abroad, it is nonetheless an exquisite treat that brings the best elements of foreign caviars together with a dedication to sustainable farming practices.

Read more →

Frozen Cocktails to Pair with Caviar for Labor Day

Caviar Director3 comments

Frozen Cocktail Recipes to Pair with Caviar

Image via The Spruce

Traditional wisdom suggests that caviar be served with very limited drink options—most often Champagne or vodka—so as not to overpower the prized flavor of the roe. But summer calls for a bit more experimentation, and with gourmet frozen drinks being a much-anticipated trademark of warmer months, a caviar tasting to match should be no exception.

 

To bring a frosty, summer-friendly element to your caviar pairings, use the traditional suggestions as a starting point and improvise from there. Rather than simply popping open a bottle of Champagne to enjoy alongside your Osetra, opt for a frozen variation— a frozen take on the French 75 (a truly classic cocktail made by combining Champagne and a splash of gin) or a simple lemon sorbet will add greatly to the party atmosphere.

 

FROZEN FRENCH 75

 

This recipe, created in New Orleans, can be made one of two ways— by using an ice cream maker to create a base and then topping with Champagne, or by replacing the water with ice and simply blending all the ingredients together in a blender. Either way, the finished frozen drink will impart an indulgent, celebratory air to any summer event. We recommend choosing a mild gin in order to best complement the subtleties of the caviar—  leave those gins that have an intense botanical flavor on your bar cart for next time.


Makes about 8 cocktails
Prep time: about 20 minutes, with ice-cream maker method


3 cups water
1-1/3 cups gin
5-1/2 ounces fresh lemon juice
5 ounces simple syrup, chilled
7-1/2 ounce sparkling wine or Champagne
Lemon peel

Combine water, gin, lemon juice and simple syrup (chilled ahead of time) in a pitcher. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and process until just slushy before adding Champagne. Continue to process briefly to combine.

 

VODKA LEMON SORBET FLOAT

 

Prefer vodka with your caviar? Fans of this neutral spirit won’t be disappointed when they discover the light, lemony flavor of a vodka sorbet found in this recipe. This frozen treat is a play on the way that both vodka and sorbets are traditionally used as palate-cleansers during a meal— and an adult-appropriate adaptation of a classic summer ice cream float. Simply combine sugar, water, and lemon zest over heat, then add vodka and lemon juice before freezing— again, either in an ice-cream maker, or in a freezer as you would a granita. Top it off with a splash of club soda to add some refreshing carbonation to the float that will provide a clean finish in between tastes of the most flavorful caviar varieties, such as

 

Makes about 5 cocktails

Prep time: about 30 minutes, with ice-cream maker method

 

1/2 cup premium vodka
1 1/2 cup sugar
3 cups water
Grated lemon zest
3 1/2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

Club soda, to finish

 

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water until the sugar dissolves.
Add the lemon zest and stir until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. Place a fine strainer over a bowl and slowly pour the syrup mixture through, being sure to strain out any zest. Add lemon juice and vodka to the strained syrup mixture, stirring until thoroughly blended. At this stage, either transfer mixture to ice cream maker, then process; or place mixture, covered, in the freezer, mixing with a fork intermittently as it freezes. When frozen, place in a blender and process until smooth. Scoop into serving dishes and top with club soda.

 

Whether you prefer to sample the rich, inimitable flavor of caviar with Champagne or vodka, these elegant frozen alternatives might just replace your tried-and-true caviar and drink pairings. The perfect accompaniment for summer festivities, these beverages lend a luxurious, relaxing air to outdoor dining while also showcasing the unique profiles of all varieties of fine caviar.

 

Read more →

Best Luxury First Class Airline Cabins

Caviar Director

Best Luxury First Class Airline Cabins

 

Travel isn’t just about the destination— it’s about the journey, too. Some airlines truly take this adage to heart, bringing their A-game when creating a first-class passenger experience. Whether you’re taking a relatively short trip or are about to settle into your seat for the long haul, here are the airlines who are providing the most luxurious first-class cabins imaginable – with some of them even offering in-flight caviar.

 Best for the full suite experience: Etihad Airways (UAE)
For a truly luxurious experience that makes you forget you’re soaring among the clouds, Etihad Airways’ “Apartment” option is unbeatable. Personal cabins including an armchair, a separate bed, and a private shower make flying with Etihad an unparalleled experience. There’s simply no going back to being stuck in a single seat when you can freely roam about your private cabin and take a relaxing shower at 20,000 feet. Still somehow not enough space? Upgrade to Etihad’s “Residence” option to accommodate two guests in your not-so-humble abode.

 

Best for picky sleepers: Singapore Airlines (Singapore)
The first airline to ever offer a double bed in-flight, Singapore Airlines certainly doesn’t skimp. Enjoy a variety of seafood including lobster and, yes, caviar, accompanied by your choice of top-tier Champagnes, then stretch out and sleep off the rest of the flight in total comfort, wrapped in Givenchy bedding and pajamas.

 

Best for indecisive travelers: Lufthansa (Germany)
Arranged in couplets of one bed and one seat per customer per row, Lufthansa gives the impression of traveling in a celebrity friend’s private jet. Each couplet feels uniquely private, as there’s only two per row. In flight, sample the airline’s caviar selection and enjoy the quiet comfort of complimentary Bose® noise-cancelling headphones.

 

Best for privacy: Japan Airlines (Japan)

For the “apartment” privacy without the palatial feel, Japan Airlines fits the bill. Cozy woodgrain interiors lend a stylishly minimal feel, made all the more inviting by a luxurious armchair that converts into a bed. The beds run the full length of your private cabin, and come complete with your choice of firm or soft luxury mattress pads for even greater comfort. Best of all, each “seat” can be closed off entirely from the rest of the plane for complete privacy and peace and quiet or so you can enjoy entertainment on your private 23-inch LCD monitor, whichever you choose. For those who are feeling peckish, a selection of Japanese and Western-style menu items are available, which of course includes caviar.

 

Best for traveling in twos: Qatar Airways (Qatar)

If you’re someone who likes to roam around mid-flight, or if you’re traveling as a pair and enjoy the bar scene, Qatar Airways might be the choice for you. Their “Sky Lounge” feels like something you may encounter on a yacht, with a fully-stocked curved bar and lounge seating. After some cocktails and snacks, you can retire to your seat, which reclines fully into a flat bed and features luxury bedding. Seats have partitions that can be raised once in flight, which offers you the option to pick your privacy level. Additionally, the ottoman at each seat can be turned into a bench for getting some face-to-face time during meals. The luxury flying experience is topped off with a Giorgio Armani amenity kit and Missoni pajamas so you can snooze in style.

Read more →

Best Domestic Fall Luxury Escapes

Caviar Director

As fall comes into view, pack for a long weekend escape to see the natural wonders that this country has to offer. Whether you choose to scope out the changing leaves in a luxury cabin, or indulge in a Rockefeller-worthy lakeside stay, there’s plenty to love about the autumn season.

 

The Point Resort, Adirondacks

Constructed by William Avery Rockefeller in the 1900s, this resort is an idealized vision of Upstate New York befitting the Gilded Age. The log cabin-style Main House is rustic only in concept, revealing opulent rooms each fitted with stone fireplaces and soaring beamed ceilings. Rent out the highly sought-after Boathouse for an even more exclusive experience, featuring panoramic views of the lake and mountains beyond. Enjoy the boat outings or simply relax in nature, then finish the day with an elegant meal in the Great Hall— where the tradition of “dressing for dinner” lives proudly on.

 

Omni Mount Washington Hotel, Bretton Woods, NH

This grandiose 200-room hotel is nestled beside Mount Washington and—if you time your trip right—engulfed in fall foliage. Trade the busy ski season for the calmer days of fall, and you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled natural beauty. Slip away to The Cave, a former speakeasy, for a cocktail, then retreat to your room’s private veranda to take in the spectacular views at dusk or, for a truly one-of-a-kind autumn experience, get a bird’s-eye view with a zipline tour.

 

The Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg, MT

This resort ramps up as temperatures drop, with a special autumn calendar of harvest festivities including fine farm-to-table dining, intimate concerts, and more. Outdoorsmen and creative types alike will be at home here— their diverse array of activities offers everything from horseback riding to photography classes (and with the breathtaking scenery, there’ll be plenty to enjoy with both). As a special treat during the harvest season, head to Buckle Barn for an evening with Grammy award-winner Leann Rimes followed by a barn dance— a truly unique way to discover the spirit of Montana.

 

Topping Rose House, Hamptons

The Hamptons may be bustling in the summer, but this seaside escape transforms into something far more rare in the fall. Experience the Hamptons at its most unhurried for a chance to see it in a whole new light. Stay in Topping Rose House’s cottage king suite for the most luxurious experience— private rooftop patios offer a look at surrounding Bridghampton as well as quaint farm views. Dining options skew toward the foodie crowd, with the Jean-Georges restaurant offering farm-to-table fare. Balance your indulgences with poolside yoga in the morning, or head out for a weekend drive with one of the resort’s complimentary Audis.

 

Glenmere Mansion, Chester, NY

Designed by the esteemed architect of the New York Public Library, this Italianate mansion is the perfect place to enjoy the changing seasons. The villa is the pinnacle of luxury, perched atop a hill with rooms featuring multiple fireplaces, terraces, and private elevators. Stroll in the manicured gardens or opt for traditional hamam bathing rituals (for one or a pair), offered in the mansion’s bath house. The property’s dining rooms are decorated with exquisite antiques, though the option of terrace dining may be more desirable to truly get the most out of the fall landscape (be sure to take advantage of their Belgian ossetra caviar for two!). Surrounding wineries, including Brotherhood Winery (the oldest in the United States), offer tours and tastings nearby in addition to supplying Glenmere with their wares.

Read more →

Siberian Sturgeon Caviar

Caviar Director

Siberian sturgeons are freshwater fish known for producing delicious, deep black caviar pearls. While wild Siberian sturgeons are considered to be endangered (like the Beluga sturgeon), Siberian sturgeon farming is experiencing an uptick both in Europe and the United States. While France and Uruguay remain the main producers of Siberian sturgeons, they are now also being farmed in Italy, Germany, Poland, Spain, the U.S., and other locations. These countries are attempting to lessen the strain on the wild Siberian sturgeon population by sustainably farming these sought-after fish and committing to responsible farming methods.

Buy Siberian Sturgeon Caviar Online

Khavyar offers several varieties of Siberian sturgeon caviar for sale.  These varieties range from our sustainably farmed Belgian import Siberian Gold Caviar, which boasts large black pearls and deliver a buttery, sweet taste reminiscent of Beluga caviar, over Giaveri Siberian Caviar, an Italian import with a rich flavor, to Siberian American Caviar, which offers a creamy, nutty taste with charcoal-colored pearls, similar to a fine Sevruga. Irrespective of which variety you choose, these Siberian sturgeon caviars are sure to create a memorable, intoxicating flavor experience.

As with other caviars, Siberian sturgeon caviar is best served atop  , toast points, or crackers. Of course, it can also be enjoyed direct from the tin with the use of a so as not to adversely affect the delicate flavor balance. Siberian sturgeon caviar should be kept in the coldest part of the refrigerator before serving, and ought to be couched in a bed of crushed or shaved ice if serving in the tin or another vessel.

Siberian sturgeon caviar lends an indulgent, elevated air to any event, and will charm caviar connoisseurs and novices alike with its rich, buttery flavor and stunning pearl presentation. As with all caviars, when you purchase Siberian sturgeon caviar online, we recommend outfitting your event with a minimum of 30 grams of caviar per two people— when presenting individual servings of caviar, be sure to include at least one heaping half-teaspoon each in order to showcase the full flavor range of these delectable pearls.

Read more →

Expect the Unexpected: Grilled Caviar Recipes for Your Next Outdoor Party

Caviar Director

Grilled Caviar Recipes

Image via Argus Guide

Bringing caviar into the mix might not be your first impulse for a cookout - unless, like superstar self-taught chef Victor Arguinzoniz, you know how to grill caviar. There are some compelling reasons why you should consider incorporating it into your next summer party. Not only is it ideal for infusing outdoor gatherings with an air of luxury, invigorating the party spirit atmosphere, and bringing an unexpected surprise to the table, but its talent for elevating the profile of even the most commonplace grilled foods cannot be understated. Caviar can bring some much-needed richness to your favorite fish, seafood, and even vegetables.

 

Grilled Salmon Salad in Endive Cups

Salmon is one of our favorite foods to grill— not only does an outdoor grill make it easy to perfect the delicate balance between a crispy outer skin that gives way to a just-barely-cooked interior, but it also brings an unexpectedly sophisticated element to typical outdoor gatherings. This recipe for a unique side salad improves upon grilled salmon, using it as the base for a deliciously tangy endive filling alongside sour cream, capers, and summery pickles. The star ingredient, of course, is salmon roe, which tops off each serving and elevates the entire dish. While this would be ideal as an appetizer, it could also be modified as a side dish for other grilled dishes.

 

Fire-Roasted Artichokes with Herb Aioli

To use the benefits of an outdoor grill to the fullest extent, try taking this recipe for fire-roasted artichokes for a spin— each artichoke gets marinated in a umami-rich mixture of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and fresh herbs before being nestled on the char-broiler of a grill. An herbed aioli with a hint of heat finishes off each individual serving, which is then sprinkled with a garnish of caviar— the perfect balance of flavors for any season, but an especially welcome treat as summer nears its end.

 

Grilled Lobster Tails with Green Curry-Mango Dipping Sauce

Looking for something a bit more filling? This grilled lobster tail recipe is an improvisation on a summer classic— par-cooked lobsters are skewered on the grill, then drizzled with a sweet-and-savory curry mango sauce that plays up all the exotic flavors of summer with lime juice, chiles, fresh mangoes, and ginger. The final garnish is black caviar, which not only adds another element of richness to the dish, but is also sure to impress even the most foodie-centric crowd— we suggest using Siberian Gold caviar to play up the provenance of the lobsters, and embrace the unusual marriage of these American flavors.

 

Whatever your next summer cookout holds, make a caviar-garnished meal the center of attention— this unexpected ingredient will lend a level of sophistication to any outdoor event, creating an exquisite evening for epicureans.

Read more →