Not all capers are the same — and in the world of Mediterranean cuisine, size truly matters. Capers are graded by diameter, and the general rule is simple: the smaller the bud, the more delicate, intense, and prized it is.
The grades, smallest to largest
Lilliput (3–5 mm) — the smallest and most prized, delicate yet intense. Non-Pareille (5–7 mm) — the chef's benchmark, perfectly balanced. Surfine (7–8 mm) and Capucine (8–9 mm) — versatile mid grades. Capote (9–11 mm), Fine (11–12 mm), and Horse (12+ mm) — bold, meaty, with the most pronounced flavour and presence.
Beyond the buds
Caperberries are the mature stem-on fruit — larger, milder, and juicier, ideal as a garnish. Mix is an uncalibrated blend for high-volume use, and caper paste is finely ground capers for sauces and spreads.
Which grade for which job?
Small grades (Lilliput, Non-Pareille) suit fine dining and delicate sauces; larger grades (Capote, Fine, Horse) shine where the caper is a featured, visible ingredient. See the full range on our products page.
Capers Turkey, a Tuna Sourcing division, supplies wholesale Mediterranean capers — handpicked in Türkiye and naturally brined, graded by size. Request a quote or browse the grades.