Copps Island Oysters

Quick Facts

• Species: Eastern Oyster (Crassostrea virginica).
• Cultivation Method: Farmed with sustainable practices in Long Island Sound.
• Size: 3-4 inches, perfect for half-shell servings.
• Flavor Profile: Briny with a sweet, buttery finish.
• Seasonality: Available year-round.

What Are Copps Island Oysters?

Copps Island Oysters, the crown jewel of the Long Island Sound. Nestled in the pristine waters of Norwalk, Connecticut, these oysters are renowned for their unparalleled quality and tantalizing taste. Cultivated through sustainable aquaculture practices, Copps Island Oysters have a delicate brininess. This brininess dances on the palate. It is accompanied by a subtle hint of sweetness. With their plump, meaty texture and well-rounded shells, these medium-sized oysters are a culinary delight.

Copps Island Oysters are a favorite among seafood enthusiasts and esteemed chefs alike. They can be relished raw on the half shell. They are also expertly incorporated into various cooked dishes, such as grilled delicacies or seafood stews. Savor the flavors of the sea with these delectable oysters, sourced locally in the Northeastern United States. Discover the epitome of freshness and indulge in a true taste of coastal elegance with Copps Island Oysters.

How Did Copps Island Oysters Get Their Name?

Copps Island Oysters are named after the location in Long Island Sound where they are cultivated. Copps Island, a small area off the coast of Norwalk, Connecticut, has been a hub for oyster farming for generations.

The name reflects the rich maritime heritage of the region. Norm Bloom & Son adopted the name to honor the tradition. They wanted to highlight the pristine environment that gives these oysters their distinctive taste.

About Norm Bloom & Son, LLC

Norm Bloom & Son, LLC cultivates Copps Island Oysters. It is one of the largest privately-owned oyster farms on the East Coast 2. Norman Bloom founded the company in 1994 with just three crew members and one boat. He grew it into a fleet of 15 boats. These boats harvest year-round 4.

The Bloom family’s oyster legacy traces back to the 1950s when Norm Sr. and his twin brother Hillard invested in Connecticut’s struggling oyster industry 2. They purchased Tallmadge Brothers Oyster Company in 1972, controlling 22,000 acres of shellfish grounds from Greenwich to New Haven 2.

Today, the operation manages between 25 and 30 boats and employs nearly 60 people 3. Norman’s children, Jimmy and Jeanne, continue the family tradition. They oversee operations that span 14,000 acres along the Connecticut coast from Greenwich to Stonington 3. The company maintains a hatchery on the Quinnipiac River in New Haven. They carefully breed and cultivate oysters under skilled management 3.

Follow Them

Ready to taste the sweet, briny goodness of Copps Island Oysters? Visit Norm Bloom & Son’s official website to learn more about their sustainable farming practices and premium oysters. Follow them on social media for the latest updates, recipes, and a glimpse into the life of Connecticut’s oyster farmers. Don’t miss out on these Long Island Sound treasures – explore Copps Island Oysters today!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• X

Copps Island Oysters Information

Oyster: Copps Island

Cultivation Method: Farmed for 2-3 years.

Seasonality: Year Round

Size: 3-4″

Cultivation Method: Off Bottom Cages

Salinity: 26-28 ppt ( moderate)

Appearance: well-rounded and plump shells with a grayish or brownish color, occasionally displaying hints of green or purple. They are medium-sized oysters, with creamy or off-white meat that has a smooth and meaty texture.

Flavor Profile: delightful balance of brininess and sweetness. They offer a clean and crisp taste with a refreshing briny note that is complemented by a subtle underlying sweetness. The oysters also feature a buttery finish, providing a smooth and velvety texture that adds to their overall appeal.

If you like Copps Island Oysters, check out these similar varieties!

• Pine Island Oysters
• Mystic Oysters
• Stellar Mar Oysters
  

Location

Copps Island Oysters thrive in the renowned oyster beds of the Norwalk/Westport Island Chain in Connecticut. The shallow waters, swift currents, and sandy bottoms create prime growing conditions for these premium shellfish 4. The location sits within Long Island Sound, where the waters range in salinity between 23-32 ppt 6.

The nutrient-rich waters of Long Island Sound provide essential elements for healthy oyster development. The Sound’s unique formation, created by a terminal glacial moraine, has an average depth of 20 meters. It experiences significant tidal action through Block Island Sound 6. These tidal patterns ensure constant water movement and nutrient circulation, creating ideal conditions for oyster growth.

The Norwalk Islands naturally shelter the oyster beds, offering protection while maintaining optimal water flow. The area’s environmental conditions combine the best aspects of both wild and farmed oyster habitats 4. The sandy bottom composition contributes to the oysters’ distinctive characteristics. The cold waters result in their plump meats and sweet, briny flavor 5. The location’s swift currents ensure continuous food delivery. The currents also help maintain water quality. These are essential factors that support the oysters’ growth and prosperity 4.

The Sound’s ecosystem historically supported abundant oyster populations, making it a natural choice for cultivation 6. Despite facing various environmental challenges over the years, the area continues to provide excellent growing conditions that produce high-quality oysters. This location benefits oyster growth and development because of several factors. It has cold, nutrient-rich waters, proper water circulation, and a suitable bottom composition 5.

Suggested Pairings

1. Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Riesling – This Riesling from Washington State has crisp acidity and notes of green apple and lime. Its bright, slightly sweet flavor cuts through the oysters’ briny salinity, enhancing their sweetness. The wine’s mineral backbone mirrors the oceanic freshness of the oysters.
2. Sancerre (Domaine Vacheron) – A classic Sancerre from the Loire Valley presents citrus and herbaceous notes. It has a vibrant, steely minerality. These qualities complement the oysters’ clean, briny profile while balancing their buttery finish. The wine’s zippy freshness amplifies the natural flavors of the oysters.
3. Allagash White Ale – This Belgian-style wheat beer features hints of orange peel. It also contains coriander. These flavors pair seamlessly with the oyster’s buttery, briny notes. The beer’s effervescence and light body cleanse the palate, allowing each oyster’s flavor to shine through.
4. Ketel One Vodka Martini – A chilled, classic vodka martini enhances the oysters’ natural salinity and pure ocean flavors. The martini’s crisp, clean profile highlights the oysters’ briny character while providing a refreshing contrast to their creamy texture.
5. Laurent-Perrier Brut Champagne – The delicate bubbles create a luxurious pairing with Copps Island Oysters. The dry, toasty notes of this champagne enhance the experience. Its acidity lifts the oysters’ brininess. The hint of brioche complements their buttery sweetness. Each bite and sip creates a harmonious experience.

Where Can I Buy Copps Island Oysters?

1. The Oysterman’s Daughter – Ships fresh oysters caught and packed the same day with ice packs. Each order includes harvest date and location information. Orders placed after 2:00 PM EST ship the next business day.
2. Norm Bloom & Son – Direct wholesale orders from the source. Their oysters are harvested daily, ensuring unparalleled freshness and quality.
3. Atlantic Aqua Farms – Specializes in distributing choice-grade Copps Island Oysters sized 3.5 inches, maintaining the authentic taste and quality of these Connecticut favorites.

References

1. “About Us.” Norm Bloom & Son LLC, www.coppsoysterfarm.com/about-us, Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.
2. “Copps Island Oysters.” Atlantic Aqua Farms, atlanticaquafarms.com/products/copps-island-oysters, Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.”Copps Island Oysters.
3. ” Pangea Shellfish Company, pangeashellfish.com/oysters/copps-island, Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.
4. “Environmental Factors Affecting Oyster Populations.” Sarasota Water Atlas, University of South Florida, 2023.”For Local Farmers, the Oyster is Their World.” Yale Daily News, 22 Sept. 2024.
5. “Half Dozen Copps Island Oysters.” Butterfield Market, butterfieldmarket.com/products/copps-island-oysters, 28 Nov. 2024.
6. “Oyster + Beverage Pairing Chart.” Pangea Shellfish Company, March 2016.
7. “Sustainability in Oyster Farming.” Harbor Watch Environmental Report, 2024.”The Magic of Oysters.” Edible CT East, 21 July 2022.
8. “The Oysterman’s Dream.” WoodenBoat Magazine, Mar./Apr. 2022, pp. 34-39.