Caviar, the “black gold of the sea,” has long symbolized luxury. But what makes it so exclusive – and how did Swedish caviar become part of the Nobel celebration?
Site manager Ola Brandt inspects a sturgeon in one of the pools at AROS in Strömsnäsbruk. Around 800 sturgeon now swim in the temperate water of the disused mill premises.
From tsars to star restaurants
Caviar, and we're not talking about the smoked version in a tube, is more than an exclusive delicacy – it has a history that stretches far back in time.
The word caviar itself comes from the Persian word for “having sturgeon,” according to Aftonbladet , reflecting its deep roots in Iranian and Russian tradition.
For centuries, the delicacy from the Caspian Sea region, and especially from Russia and Iran, has been considered the most exclusive in the world.
As early as the 17th century, Russian Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich recognized its value and made caviar a state monopoly. Soon it was served at Europe's finest banquets, writes CNN .
More than a delicacy
Caviar is also more than just a delicacy – it has even found its way into the beauty industry.
Its high content of proteins and minerals is used in exclusive skin care and is said to give the skin a youthful glow.
No matter what, the delicacy has maintained its status as a symbol of luxury, craftsmanship, and finesse throughout the centuries.
But is it the taste, the history or its exclusivity that makes it so sought after?
Perhaps it's a combination of all of these. Whatever it is, caviar is still a delicacy that continues to fascinate and seduce the world over.