Images 2 & 4 - Kaluga (Huso dauricus) Images 3 & 5 - Kaluga Hybrid (Huso dauricus x Acipenser schrenckii)
Had the chance to taste the N25 Kaluga and Kaluga hybrid side to side together with some home made blinis. Kaluga tends to lean more golden, but this particular batch was darker than usual and the contrast was not as pronounced (as seen the pics above).
Flavour wise, the difference was much clearer. The Kaluga was more complex and intense, while the hybrid was milder but noticeably more buttery. In terms of texture the Kaluga had a firmer pop with more distinct beads, while the hybrid was softer and creamier overall.
The Kaluga would probably be great as an occasional treat (in no small part due to the price), but the hybrid doesn’t fall far behind and works just as well for more regular indulgence and entertaining, it is definitely a crowd pleaser.