Africa’s Exquisite Caviar Revolutionizing High-End Cuisine: Discover the fascinating story of Acipenser, Africa’s first caviar manufacturer, and its journey to produce premium Rova Caviar in Madagascar.
Acipenser, with its Rova and Kasnodar Caviar brands, is the first caviar manufacturer in Africa. Founded by Delphyne Dabezies 15 years ago, the company has made significant strides in the luxury food industry.
The Unlikely Source of Luxury Ingredients: Lake Mantasoa
High in the mountains of Madagascar, just east of the capital Antananarivo, Lake Mantasoa has emerged as an unlikely source of caviar. ‘Every expert was saying it was impossible,’ Dabezies told CNN. The lake’s unique environment allows sturgeon fish to grow year-round, maturing around two years faster than those in the Northern Hemisphere.
Located in the heart of Madagascar, Lake Mantasoa is a serene and tranquil destination.
Covering an area of approximately 2.5 square kilometers, it's one of the country's largest lakes.
The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and rolling hills, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
According to geological surveys, the lake was formed as a result of tectonic activity in the region.
It's home to several species of fish and birds, adding to its natural charm.
The History and Luxury of Caviar
Caviar is a delicacy made from the salted eggs of sturgeon fish. Traditionally sourced from Russia’s Caspian Sea, it gained luxury status in the 17th century after Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich I made caviar a state monopoly. With the establishment of Acipenser in Madagascar, caviar is now produced on every inhabited continent other than Australia.
Breaking into the Global Market
The culinary world was wary when Acipenser produced its first batch of premium Rova Caviar in 2017. However, the opportunity arrived when Europe’s top chefs sampled the produce at the prestigious culinary expo Sirha Lyon in 2019. Since then, Rova Caviar has appeared on high-end menus around the world.
The Acipenser, also known as the sturgeon, is an ancient fish species that has been around for over 200 million years.
These prehistoric creatures can grow up to 6 meters in length and weigh over 1 ton.
There are 27 different species of Acipenser found in rivers and seas worldwide.
They are prized for their caviar, a delicacy considered a luxury item.
Unfortunately, many Acipenser species are threatened due to overfishing and habitat destruction.
Investing in the Community
Madagascar is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth and is home to thousands of species found nowhere else in the world. Acipenser employs around 300 people, 80% of whom are from the local municipality of Ambatolaona. The company provides training in fish farming and caviar production, as well as medical coverage, literacy courses, and family planning education.
A Unique Place with Incredible Potential
The ultimate goal for many caviar makers is to produce Beluga caviar, the most expensive and luxurious form of caviar. As of last year, Acipenser had its first Beluga fish in Madagascar. This year, it is aiming to produce Beluga caviar for the first time. ‘Madagascar is a unique place with incredible potential,’ Dabezies said. ‘We are proud to be a part of its story and to share its treasures with the world.’
Beluga caviar is considered one of the rarest and most expensive types of caviar.
Harvested from the beluga sturgeon, it takes around 20-30 years for these fish to mature, producing only a few kilograms of caviar per year.
Beluga caviar has a rich, 'buttery flavor' and a smooth texture, making it highly prized by connoisseurs.
It is often served at high-end restaurants and special occasions due to its luxurious reputation.
Rova Caviar: A Luxury Experience
Rova’s most expensive product sells for €11,670 (around $11,960) per kilogram. The caviar has a buttery, brioche-like and hazelnut flavor on the finish, making it a unique experience for those who try it. ‘You just sort of press it against your palate,’ said Nichola Fletcher, author of ‘Caviar: A Global History.’ ‘And the little eggs dissolve into deliciousness.’
Acipenser’s success story is one of innovation and perseverance. From humble beginnings to becoming Africa’s first caviar manufacturer, Acipenser has proven that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
