Caspian Monarque was established in 1994 and is one of the very few caviar producers that now breed sturgeon in the Caspian Sea. Since then, the company has helped pioneer transparency, highlighting the importance of regulation within the global caviar landscape. In addition, Iranian-born director Cyrus Tabrizi leads a team of highly specialised local fishermen and caviar-producing artisans that strive for fair and ethical farming practices, for both workers and products.
Caspian Monarque offers the ultimate selection of pure Iranian caviar, sourced exclusively from ancient species of sturgeon bred in their native home – the Caspian Sea.
We sat down with Cyrus to find out a little more about his company and why his exclusive Iranian caviar is widely regarded as some of the very best on the market today.
What is Caspian Monarque, and what sets it apart in the caviar industry?
Caspian Monarque was founded in 1994, it’s a prominent player in the caviar sector. What distinguishes it from other caviar brands is our commitment to authenticity and sustainability, as we harvest caviar directly from the Caspian Sea, ensuring production of high quality and genuine products, all whilst maintaining ethical and sustainable aquaculture practices.
What exactly is caviar, and how is it obtained?
Caviar is the roe (eggs) of sturgeon fish. It’s considered a delicacy across the globe and is extracted from these slow-growing, toothless prehistoric fish found in the Caspian Sea and other places.
How has the Caspian Sea played a significant role in caviar’s history?
The Caspian Sea has been the cradle of caviar production for the longest time due to its unique conditions. There is a geological ridge that runs down the middle of the Caspian Sea. Due to the depths reaching over 1000m and cold waters, particularly along Iran’s southern shore, this creates an unusual ecosystem for the fish to grow resulting in exceptional quality caviar.
Could you explain the historical shifts in caviar production and the rise of Caspian Monarque?
Historically, Russian companies dominated caviar production with Iranian support. However, as the Soviet Union dissolved, Iran gained control over sturgeon farming and caviar production in the southern Caspian. Caspian Monarque emerged as a standout by continuing to ethically source caviar directly from the Caspian Sea, with help from highly specialised local fishermen.
How has the surge in caviar’s popularity impacted sturgeon species and caviar production practices?
As the popularity of caviar has increased, it has led to overfishing and endangerment of sturgeon species. To counter this CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) was imposed in 2006. Since then farmed caviar became regulated globally, prioritising sustainability and ethical practices – these values are especially important to us at Caspian Monarque.
Can you explain the significance of labelling in the caviar industry?
Labels play a vital role in combating misrepresentation. CITES introduced specific marketing labels denoting the caviar’s origin, such as ‘RU’ for Russia or ‘IR’ for Iran, allowing consumers to make informed choices.
How does Caspian Monarque contribute to the authenticity of caviar?
Caspian Monarque stands out from other caviar producers due to our commitment to authenticity, we are also one of a few caviar producers that harvest it straight from the Caspian Sea. We focus on sustainable and ethical farming and staying true to tradition and maintaining the caviar’s genuine essence without disrupting the ecosystem.
What role does Caspian Monarque play in preserving the heritage of caviar?
Caspian Monarque, with our traditional and sustainable approach, embodies the luxury and heritage associated with caviar. The sustainable and natural features of the Caspian Sea waters form an excellent ecosystem that ensures quality across all Caspian Monarque caviars: Beluga, Almas, Osetra, Sevruga, and Baeri, without disrupting it. We offer a range of caviar such as Beluga and Almas that remind us of caviar’s gastronomic significance. It is also worth noting that higher-graded caviar contains a more nuanced and complex taste.
How does Caspian Monarque balance accessibility with authenticity in today’s caviar market?
As caviar becomes more accessible, we believe that Caspian Monarque’s focus on authenticity resonates with consumers seeking genuine experiences even more while supporting ethical practices. Our values are cemented in Iranian tradition and history. We also continue to uphold the same stewardship values to the natural world as its society has for centuries.
How can interested individuals explore the world of Caspian Monarque caviar?
To explore the range of traditional and authentic caviars offered by Caspian Monarque, visit the website and discover the legacy of caviar from the Caspian Sea.
