Chelsea Gem oysters stand out as pioneers in the world of tide-tumbled cultivation. Developed by John Lentz in Washington’s Eld Inlet, these oysters revolutionized farming techniques by introducing the first tide tumbling bags. This innovative method allows Chelsea Gems to grow faster and develop deeper cups than their beach-raised counterparts.
The unique cultivation process of Chelsea Gems results in a distinct flavor profile. Unlike many beach-raised oysters that can have muddy tidal flat flavors, these gems offer a clean, mineral taste with subtle notes of cucumber and horseradish. Their low brininess and creamy texture make them an excellent choice for oyster novices while still appealing to connoisseurs.
Chelsea Gems also boast an eye-catching appearance. Their shells feature striking black, white, and purple stripes, giving them a jewelry-like quality. This aesthetic appeal, combined with their consistent shape and size, makes Chelsea Gems a favorite among chefs and oyster enthusiasts alike. The Lentz family’s commitment to sustainable farming practices further enhances the appeal of these unique bivalves
How Did Chelsea Gem Oysters Get Their Name?
Chelsea Farms created Chelsea Gem oysters in 1987. Linda and John Lentz founded the company in Olympia, Washington. “Chelsea” means “Port of Ships” and was John’s tugboat name. The “Gem” part highlights the oyster’s jewel-like shell.
John Lentz developed these oysters in Eld Inlet. He pioneered tide-tumbling techniques using innovative bags. This method produces deep-cupped oysters with consistent shapes. Their appearance resembles polished gems.
The name reflects Chelsea Farms’ innovation and the oysters’ unique qualities. It captures their origin, looks, and special cultivation methods. These factors set Chelsea Gems apart in the oyster market.
About the Farm
Chelsea Farms, a family-owned shellfish farm in Olympia, Washington, was founded in 1987 by Linda and John Lentz. The name “Chelsea” reflects John’s tugboat used for geoduck diving. From the start, the Lentz family focused on sustainable farming practices in the South Sound. They raise oysters, clams, and geoduck on privately owned tidelands for about 35 families.
Today, Shina Wysocki and Kyle Lentz, the founders’ children, own and operate the farm. In 2016, they opened Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar in downtown Olympia. The farm is known for developing the Chelsea Gem oyster using innovative tide-tumbling techniques. Shina Wysocki also serves on the Thurston Economic Development Council Board of Directors.
Chelsea Farms has grown significantly while maintaining its commitment to sustainability and community involvement. As shellfish farmers, they contribute to water quality improvement through their oysters’ natural filtering abilities. The farm’s history showcases a blend of innovation, environmental stewardship, and local engagement in the shellfish industry.
Follow Them
Follow Chelsea Farms on social media and visit their official website to stay updated on their fresh, sustainably farmed shellfish offerings.
Discover the taste of Puget Sound’s finest oysters and support local, sustainable aquaculture. Check out their menu, make reservations, or learn more about their farming practices today!
Chelsea Gem Oysters Information
Oyster: Chelsea Gem
Species: Pacific (Crassostrea gigas)
Cultivation Method: Farmed for 24 months (2 years)
Size: 2.5-3″ & 4-5″
Seasonality: Year-round
Culture Method: Tide-tumbled in off-bottom, suspended trays.
Salinity: 28-30 ppt
Appearance: a distinctive appearance with striking black, white, and purple striped shells. Their deep, round cups and flat top shells result from tide-tumbling cultivation. The oysters have a perfect, manicured shape with strong shells, making them jewelry-like.
Flavor Profile: a clean, mineral taste with subtle notes of cucumber and horseradish. They have a low brininess and a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. The flavor profile is mild yet complex, with a sweet finish that lingers pleasantly on the palate.
Location
Chelsea Farms cultivates Chelsea Gem oysters in Eld Inlet, South Puget Sound, Washington.
The Lentz family started farming here in 1987. They now operate in various lower Puget Sound bays, but Eld Inlet remains their main site. Eld Inlet offers ideal conditions for oyster growth. It has 14-foot tides twice daily. These tides support the unique “tide-tumbling” method for Chelsea Gems. Farmers place oysters in shallow water racks and bags. Tides naturally tumble them, creating deep cups and strong shells.
The inlet’s water quality enhances oyster flavor. Clean, calm waters impart cucumber and ocean notes. Low salinity (2.9%) gives oysters a mild, sweet taste. Nutrient-rich waters support plankton growth, feeding the oysters. The mud bottom adds to nutrient availability.
Eld Inlet’s protected nature shields oysters from extreme weather. This allows consistent growth and development. These factors make Eld Inlet perfect for Chelsea Gem oysters. They support rapid growth and create a unique flavor profile.
Suggested Beverage Pairings
- Chablis Premier Cru “Montmains” by Domaine Louis Michel & Fils
This crisp, mineral-driven white wine complements the oysters’ clean, mineral taste. Its high acidity and citrus notes enhance the subtle cucumber flavors of Chelsea Gems. - Muscadet Sèvre et Maine Sur Lie “Clos des Allées” by Domaine Luneau-Papin
The wine’s lemon and saline notes mirror the oysters’ brininess. Its light body and crisp finish cleanse the palate between bites. - Albarino “La Caña” by Jorge Ordoñez & Co.
This Spanish white wine’s bright acidity and subtle salinity complement the oysters’ clean flavor. Its citrus and stone fruit notes enhance the oysters’ subtle sweetness. - Pilsner Urquell
The beer’s crisp, clean taste and light bitterness balance the oysters’ brininess. Its carbonation refreshes the palate, making it an excellent palate cleanser. - Hendrick’s Gin Martini with a twist
The gin’s cucumber notes mirror the oysters’ subtle cucumber flavor. The martini’s dryness and botanical complexity enhance the oysters’ clean, mineral taste.
Where Can I Buy Chelsea Gem Oysters?
- Neptune Seafood – Neptune Seafood offers Chelsea Gem oysters, though they are currently out of stock. They sell them in 3 dozen quantities.
- Santa Monica Seafood – Santa Monica Seafood carries Chelsea Gem oysters in two sizes: 3-4 inches and 4-5 inches, both in 60 count units.
- Fortune Fish & Gourmet – Fortune Fish & Gourmet sells Chelsea Gem oysters, describing them as approximately 2¾ inches in size.
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