Basic Profile
Origin
Nootka Sound, west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
Species
Crassostrea gigas (Pacific Oyster)
Classification
Farmed; sold as intertidal beach oysters
Farming Method
Sold as beach-grown, though the shells suggest time in suspension
Producer
Nootka Sound growers
Visual Signature
Teardrop-shaped, fluted shell striped purple and dusty rose
Nootka Sound is a set of remote fjords on the ocean side of Vancouver Island. Its oysters are sold as intertidal beach oysters, although Rowan Jacobsen notes that the shells look as if they had spent time hanging in suspension.1
What It Looks Like
The shells are shaped like a pulled teardrop, fluted and striped in purple and dusty rose. Inside, the meat is very white and the mantle very black.1
Flavor Breakdown
In order
Brine up front, then what Jacobsen calls "the nutty sweetness of nori", and a finish that hints at anise.1
Why it matters
Three clear stages in one oyster is unusual. Chew slowly, or the anise is gone before you notice it.
What Makes Nootka Sound Unique
Seaweed and anise in the same oyster, from a remote part of the coast.1
One of the more interesting BC oysters to taste carefully. Order it plain and give it a few seconds.
Should You Add Lemon?
No
Lemon would cover the nori and the anise.
Pairing Guide
1
Chablis grand cru
Enough depth for a three-stage oyster.
2
Champagne, brut
Dry bubbles, and nothing to compete.
| Optimal | Plain |
| Acceptable | A drop of mignonette |
| Avoid | Cocktail sauce |
Who Is This For?
Will love it
- Tasters who like an oyster that changes as you chew
- Brine lovers
Should skip it
- People who want something simple and sweet
Sources
- Jacobsen, R. "Nootka Sound." The Oyster Guide. oysterguide.com